If you’re looking for a nature escape, look no further than Kalopa State Recreation Area! Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. From camping to horseback riding to picnicking, there’s something for everyone at Kalopa State Recreation Area. Read on to learn more about this beautiful park and all it has to offer!
- hiking trails
- camping and cabins available (for a fee)
- picnicking
- sightseeing
- ecology

Explore the Unique Kalopa State Recreation Area
With its secluded 100-acre state park and recreation area, located near the village of Honoka’a about 15 miles east of Waimea, Kalopa State Recreation Area offers a great family-friendly setup with plenty of picnic tables, BBQs, toilets and various gentle trails.
Enjoy camping and cabins in a lush forest setting with an arboretum of native trees at 2,000 foot elevation. Take in views of the Hamakua Forest Reserve while picnicking or camping, or take a stroll on the 0.7-mile loop trail and explore all of nature’s wonders that this park has to offer.
Discover the Kalopa Native Forest Trail
Discover the Kalopa Native Forest Trail, an easy 0.7 mi loop through a forest of native ʻohiʻa lehua trees. Experience the beauty of this arboretum of native trees, surrounded by the grandeur of the steep walls of the Kalopa gulch. Take in the views from 2,000-foot elevation and find plenty of picnicking and camping opportunities. Explore all of nature’s wonders at Kalopa State Recreation Area, and find solace in its secluded setting.
Experience the Arboretum of Native Trees
At Kalopa State Recreation Area, visitors can experience the unique arboretum of native trees. The park is home to a large and well-maintained arboretum that boasts an impressive collection of native flowering trees, making it a great spot to explore nature’s wonders.
Visitors can take in the beautiful views from the 2,000-foot elevation and enjoy the solitude of the state park. Additionally, the park offers plenty of picnicking and camping opportunities, as well as the 0.7-mile loop trail that passes through a forest of ‘ohi’a trees. Be sure to also visit the nearby village of Honoka’a for a truly unforgettable adventure!
Learn About the Hamakua Forest Reserve
The Hamakua Forest Reserve is located on the north side of the island of Hawaiʻi in the district of Hāmākua. Secluded like a storybook forest, this 100-acre state park offers a unique and tranquil experience for those who want to explore nature’s wonders.
The reserve is home to various native trees, including ‘ohi’a lehua, as well as plenty of picnicking and camping opportunities. With an easy 0.7-mile loop trail, visitors can explore the arboretum of native trees and take in the breathtaking views from 2,000-foot elevation. From Kalopa State Recreation Area, it is a short drive to the village of Honoka’a for additional experiences.
Enjoy the Solitude of Kalopa State Park
Kalopa State Recreation Area is perfect for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set amid native trees at 2,000 ft, the park offers plenty of opportunities to soak up the serenity of this storybook forest. With a 0.7-mile loop trail, guests can explore all of nature’s wonders in solitude, while taking in the views from the elevated elevation.
If looking for a longer hike, guests can check out the Kalopa Native Forest Trail and experience an 8-mile route through lush vegetation. If you’re looking for an overnight stay, camping and cabins are available here – although please note that no linen, bedding, or towels are provided. Whatever your plans may be, a visit to Kalopa State Park promises to be a truly unique experience.
Take in the Views from 2,000-foot Elevation
At Kalopa State Recreation Area, visitors can take in the stunning views from 2000-foot elevation. From here, they can survey the lush valleys and rolling hills of the native forests, as well as the Pacific Ocean and nearby villages. The breathtaking views are sure to leave an impression, and provide an excellent backdrop for a picnic or camping adventure.
Find Plenty of Picnicking and Camping Opportunities
Kalopa State Recreation Area offers plenty of opportunities for picnicking and camping. With only three spots available for tent camping and a maximum of four people per spot, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and secluded stay in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether you’re looking to camp out under the stars, or just take a hike through the native ‘ohi’a forest, Kalopa State Recreation Area provides the perfect opportunity to explore nature’s wonders.

Visit the Village of Honoka’a
When you visit Kalopa State Recreation Area, don’t forget to explore the nearby village of Honoka’a. This charming town is home to many quaint shops and eateries, as well as a variety of cultural and historical sites. Take a walk through the streets and enjoy the unique atmosphere, or take a stroll along the beachfront. There are plenty of activities to fill your day, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Explore All of Nature’s Wonders at Kalopa
Home to the majestic Kalopa Native Forest Trail, Hamakua Forest Reserve, and an arboretum of native trees, Kalopa State Recreation Area is the perfect place to experience all of the beauty and serenity that nature has to offer. Take in the breathtaking views from the 2,000-foot elevation, find plenty of picnicking and camping opportunities, and enjoy the solitude of this incredible park.
Visit the village of Honoka’a, explore the unique native forest trail, and make sure to take a 0.7-mile loop hike! With its abundance of outdoor activities and stunning landscapes, Kalopa State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to appreciate all that nature has to offer.
Hike the 0.7-mile Loop Trail at Kalopa
For those looking to explore the outdoors, take a hike on the 0.7-mile loop trail at Kalopa State Recreation Area. This trail passes through a native ‘ohi’a forest at a 2000-foot elevation, offering plenty of views and opportunities for picnicking and camping. The trail is an easy one for families and nature lovers alike, allowing for an enjoyable experience in one of the most beautiful settings in Hawaii.
The arboretum of native trees is an enchanting experience, and the Hamakua Forest Reserve provides a peaceful backdrop to the Kalopa State Park area. The village of Honoka’a is also nearby, adding to the charm and offering plenty of activities to enjoy. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at Kalopa State Recreation Area!