Have you been dreaming of a vacation to the tropics, but don’t have the time or money to go? Then Manuka State Wayside is the perfect destination for you! Located in Hawaii, this magnificent state park is full of lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. In this blog post we’ll take a look at all that Manuka State Wayside has to offer and why it should be your next camping spot.
Manuka State Wayside Quick Information
Heading to Manuka State Wayside? Here are the activities and amenities available there:
- camping and campsites (with a permit)
- hiking (2-mile nature hike, medium difficulty)
- restrooms
- beaches
Introduction to Manuka State Wayside
Manuka State Wayside is a 13.4-acre state park located in the Kaʻū district of the Big Island of Hawaii. Surrounded by Manuka Forest Reserve, Manuka State Wayside Park features an arboretum planted in the mid-19th century with native and introduced trees, and a two-mile nature trail winding through the adjacent Manukā Natural Area Reserve.
Visitors to Manuka State Wayside can explore the natural beauty of the area while picnicking among the trees and enjoying the cool, damp forest of the park. With one single permit-required camp site inside the park, Manuka State Wayside provides an opportunity for visitors to experience a unique camping experience in one of Hawaii’s most beautiful settings.
Overview of Manuka Natural Area Reserve
Manuka Natural Area Reserve is a 25,000-acre reserve located on the flank of leeward Mauna Loa in South Kona. This reserve encompasses a wide range of habitats, from volcanic cobble to transitional forests. It is surrounded by Manuka Forest Reserve and features the 13.4-acre arboretum Manuka State Wayside Park. Here, visitors can enjoy a two-mile nature hike through Hawaiian natural history and discover lava flows, dense vegetation, and open shelter areas. There’s no better way to explore this unique area than by taking a leisurely stroll along the Manuka Nature Trail.
What to See at Manuka State Wayside
At Manuka State Wayside, visitors will find a plethora of activities and sights to explore. From the 13.4-acre arboretum with its transitional forest to the two-mile Manuka Nature Trail, there is plenty to see and do. Hike uphill for 3/4 of a mile and you’ll find a short spur trail that leads to an overgrown pit crater. You can also explore the different lava flows of the ancient Ahupaʻa land division while learning about Hawaiian natural history.
Another popular attraction is the Manuka Forest Reserve, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and wildlife watching opportunities. With its many offerings, Manuka State Wayside is an ideal destination for any nature lover.
Exploring the Manuka Nature Trail
At Manuka State Wayside, visitors can explore the Manuka Nature Trail, a 2.1-mile loop trail that takes hikers through a transitional forest and volcanic crater. This 13-acre reserve offers a pleasant experience for hikers of all levels. The nature trail loop has many signs describing the plants and trees, offering insight into the unique Hawaiian environment. When you’re done exploring Mauna Iki Trail, there are plenty of other attractions to see in the area like Coastal Nature Trail, Kekaha Kai State Park, and Manuka State Park. Don’t forget to take a rest stop at the arboretum and picnic among the collection of native and introduced trees!
Camping at Manuka State Wayside
Camping at Manuka State Wayside is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. There are open shelter campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can enjoy a picnic in the park and take a two mile nature hike through the Manuka Natural Area Reserve. Additionally, pets, alcohol, and campfires are all prohibited in the park. With its lush forest and peaceful atmosphere, Manuka State Wayside is a great spot for camping and enjoying nature.
Picnic Opportunities at Manuka State Wayside
Manuka State Wayside offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for picnics. With its collection of native and introduced trees, the park is an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or dinner. Visitors can enjoy their meal at one of the many picnic tables, or take a blanket or picnic basket out onto the grassy lawns. For those wishing to stay longer, there are barbecues available for use. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time with friends and family while enjoying the beauty of Manuka State Wayside!
Finding and Booking Camping at Manuka State Wayside
At Manuka State Wayside, visitors can find and book camping to experience the beauty of the reserve. The park offers a single shelter for visitors who wish to camp, but tent camping is not allowed. The shelter offers great views of the reserve and allows visitors to stay overnight to explore the park in more detail. There is a fee for camping at Manuka State Wayside, and reservations must be made in advance to guarantee a spot. With the right preparation, camping at Manuka State Wayside can be an enjoyable experience that allows visitors to get closer to nature.
Manuka State Wayside Reviews
Manuka State Wayside Park has been highly reviewed by visitors from AllTrails.com and campers from Hawaiian Ocean View as a great place to stop and rest. Reviewers have given Manuka Nature Trail a 3.7 star rating for its two-mile loop trail through the Manuka Natural Area Reserve, with an irregular 1-inch to 4-inch volcanic cobble trail surface and no breathtaking views.
Visitors have praised the opportunity to picnic among native and introduced trees, as well as the chance to explore the park’s arboretum and hike the Manuka Nature Trail. Campers have also enjoyed the chance to stay at Manuka State Wayside Park for longer nature experiences. Reviews of Manuka State Wayside Park have been overwhelmingly positive, from its stunning nature views to its convenient location for road trippers.
Manuka State Wayside Discounts
Manuka State Wayside Park offers a variety of discounts to make your visit more affordable. You can save money when you book your flight and hotel together, with the lowest price guaranteed. There are also discounts available for camping at Manuka State Wayside, with prices starting at just $75 per night. You can also find discounted hotels near the park, with rates as low as $175 per night.
Additionally, there are discounts for exploring the Manuka Natural Area Reserve, including half-price admission for certain days. With so many ways to save money on your visit to Manuka State Wayside Park, you’ll be sure to enjoy a budget-friendly adventure in Hawaii.
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