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NPS/J. Ferracane
Contact: Jessica Ferracane / Public Affairs Specialist, 808-985-6018 Hawaii National Park, Hawai'i – Nāmakanipaio Campground in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has reopened. Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company, which manages the campground under a concession contract for the park, is taking reservations immediately. The popular campground has been closed since last September for the removal of large, falling and hazardous non-native eucalyptus trees in the area. "We mahalo the public for their patience while we ensure the campground is safe again," said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. "We are delighted to reopen ahead of summer," she said. Nāmakanipaio is popular with local residents and visitors, and is nestled near the summit of Kīlauea volcano at 4,000-feet, off Highway 11. Established in the 1960s, today the campground features drive-in campsites for tent camping, restrooms, showers, barbecues, and 10 rustic one-room A-frame cabins. The cabins feature bunk beds and can sleep four. Campsite rates for tent camping are $15 a night, and the A-frame cabins start at $80 a night ($50/night for Hawai'i residents). To make reservations for Nāmakanipaio campsites or cabins, contact Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company at (808) 756-9625, or visit http://www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com/cabins-campsites/. Park entrance fees apply (good for seven days). Now that the hazardous eucalyptus trees have been removed, native tree species, including 'ōhi'a and koa, can flourish. The campground has a fresh light and open look during the day, Mauna Loa is again visible, and at night, campers can enjoy a wider view of the sky, illuminated by stars and the glow from the lava lake in Halema'uma'u Crater. The Jaggar Museum observation deck, the closest vantage point to this eruption site, is an easy half-mile hike from Nāmakanipaio. -NPS- 
NPS/J. Ferracane |
Last updated: April 28, 2016