
Kalopa State Recreation Area
Discover a tranquil rainforest oasis at Kalopa State Recreation Area, featuring a native arboretum and serene nature trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and bird song

Kalopa State Recreation Area
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and bird song

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a tranquil rainforest oasis at Kalopa State Recreation Area, featuring a native arboretum and serene nature trails.
"A tree lover's paradise offering a rare, secluded escape into Hawaii's lush native rainforest."

Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:
Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Native Arboretum
Park grounds
Wander through a collection of Hawaii's unique trees, including the rare loulu palms. A true botanical gem.

Guided Nature Trail
Main trail loop
Discover diverse flora with numbered markers and informative pamphlets detailing native and invasive species.

Peaceful Rainforest Setting
Throughout the park
Immerse yourself in the calming sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh, oxygen-rich air of the lush rainforest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Nature Lover's Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:
Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the trails and meadows with ease. Good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Bring Picnic Supplies
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with available picnic tables and grills. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:
Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the trails and meadows with ease. Good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Bring Picnic Supplies
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with available picnic tables and grills. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kalopa State Recreation Area for its serene and secluded rainforest setting, making it a perfect escape for tranquility. The well-maintained arboretum and guided nature trail are highlights for nature lovers, offering an educational and peaceful experience. While generally a positive experience, some note the lack of cell service and the presence of mosquitos, especially at night.
"Seeking tranquility? Look no further than Kalōpā State Recreation Area. Starting with the drive up from the highway, you wind through some beautiful trees and ranch land before arriving. The day we were there, we had the entire park to ourselves, which is a rare thing in Hawaii! It's an awesome and we'll preserved park setting, complete with bathrooms and picnic tables. It's a tree lovers paradise! Stroll in the meadows or take a walk along one of several trails, listen to the bird song, breathe the plentiful oxygen, stare at the blue sky."
Rae H George
"It’s a nice secluded area to take a walk in the rainforest. There is a short guided nature trail with pamphlets that have a map and descriptions of different numbered trees and plants along the trail, as well as whether they are native or invasive to Hawaii. There is an indoor gathering space. It’s pretty simple and we spent about an hour here."
Beau Gray
"My family and I had a great time walking the property. The flowers were gorgeous, as were the trees."
M Finn-Scofield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kalopa State Recreation Area is located about three miles off Highway 19. The drive itself winds through scenic ranch land and beautiful trees, offering a pleasant prelude to the park's tranquility.
Yes, the road is generally accessible. While there was a mention of Pa'akea Road being open after years of closure for traffic management, this refers to a different area and doesn't directly impact access to Kalopa State Recreation Area itself.
The drive is described as winding through beautiful trees and ranch land, setting a peaceful tone for your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not readily available, but many state recreation areas in Hawaii are free to enter for day use. It's always a good idea to check the official Hawaii State Parks website for the most current information.
Operating hours for state parks can vary. It's recommended to check the official Hawaii State Parks website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on park hours.
Yes, Kalopa State Recreation Area offers camping facilities, including tent-specific areas and cabins of various sizes. Reservations are typically required for camping.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely strolls through the arboretum, walk along the nature trails, listen to bird songs, and simply relax in the serene rainforest environment. It's also a fantastic place for camping.
Yes, there is a short guided nature trail with pamphlets that provide maps and descriptions of the numbered trees and plants, indicating whether they are native or invasive to Hawaii.
The park is well-equipped with bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and even a grill area, making it comfortable for day visits and camping.
Kalopa State Recreation Area features an arboretum of native trees, including rare loulu palms, and a diverse range of other native and invasive plant species.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy walking the property, admiring the gorgeous flowers and trees, and utilizing the picnic and camping facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush rainforest, diverse native trees like the loulu palms, and the well-maintained nature trails offer beautiful photographic subjects. The serene atmosphere also lends itself to peaceful nature shots.
Yes, the arboretum is home to rare loulu palms, which are a unique and photogenic aspect of the park's flora.
With its rich biodiversity of plants and tranquil rainforest setting, Kalopa is an excellent spot for nature photography, especially for those interested in botanical subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With picnic tables and grills available, families can easily plan a delightful lunch amidst the serene rainforest. The availability of cabins and tent camping also makes it an excellent destination for a family camping trip, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the natural world together. Just be sure to pack mosquito repellent for the evenings!
🌳 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The park's network of trails, though generally gentle, allows for enjoyable hikes through the lush rainforest. The tranquil atmosphere, filled with bird song and fresh air, makes it an ideal location for mindful walks and nature photography. It's a place to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Big Island's interior.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Arboretum and Trails
Beyond the specific trails, the park offers open meadows and a general sense of tranquility. The bird song is a constant companion, and the air is described as plentifully oxygenated, making it a refreshing escape. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or simply seeking a quiet communion with nature, Kalopa provides a serene environment to appreciate Hawaii's natural beauty.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the various paths. The park is well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. The combination of diverse flora and the peaceful rainforest atmosphere makes Kalopa a unique destination for nature lovers.
Camping and Facilities
The park's amenities include an accessible bathroom with a shower and even outlets, adding to the comfort of campers. Ample parking is also available, making it easy to access your car from the campsite. However, campers should be aware that there is no cellular service within the park, and mosquitos can be prevalent at night, so it's advisable to come prepared with repellent.
Overall, the camping grounds are described as well-maintained and clean, offering a solid base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. It's a great option for families or individuals seeking an immersive nature experience away from the hustle and bustle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit