Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is a public state park in Hawaii near Hilo. Spanning 20.5 acres and established in 2014, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Hawaii |
| Nearest City | Hilo |
| Park Size | 20.5 acres |
| Established | 2014 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is located near Hilo, Hawaii. The park’s coordinates are 19.7491, -155.5263.
Things to Do
Hawaii state parks protect some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth — from active volcanic calderas and tropical rainforests to pristine coral reef bays and dramatic sea cliffs. Activities include hiking through lush valleys and along volcanic crater rims, snorkeling in crystal-clear protected bays, swimming at world-class tropical beaches, surfing legendary breaks, camping in beachfront and forest settings, kayaking along Na Pali-style coastlines, stargazing at high-altitude sites, and exploring ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) and petroglyph fields.
Best Time to Visit
Hawaii parks are a year-round destination with consistently warm temperatures (75-85°F). The dry season (April–October) offers the best beach and hiking conditions. The wet season (November–March) brings bigger surf on north shores, whale watching (humpbacks arrive December–April), and lusher waterfalls, though trail conditions can be muddy. Windward (east) sides of each island receive significantly more rain than leeward (west). High altitude parks like Haleakalā can be cold (below 40°F) — bring layers regardless of season.
Visitor Tips
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter, though some popular sites require advance reservations and parking fees. Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require mandatory advance reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance. Respect Hawaiian cultural sites — never remove rocks, sand, or artifacts. Many trails close after heavy rain for safety. Reef-safe sunscreen is required by law in Hawaii. Always check current conditions before hiking, as flash floods are a real danger in valley trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Diamond Head?
Yes, Diamond Head State Monument now requires mandatory advance reservations for all visitors. Reservations can be made online through the Hawaii DLNR website. Walk-ups are not permitted without a reservation.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii law requires the use of reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned. Look for sunscreens labeled “reef-safe” or “mineral-based.”
Are Hawaii state parks free?
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter. Some popular sites like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require paid reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance.
Can I camp at Hawaii state parks?
Yes, several Hawaii state parks offer camping including Polihale and Koke’e on Kauai, and Hapuna Beach and Kalopa on the Big Island. Permits must be obtained in advance through the Hawaii DLNR.
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Mauna Kea SRA — at 6,500 feet elevation on Mauna Kea (13,796 ft) — the tallest mountain on Earth measured from its oceanic base (33,500 ft from seafloor to summit — taller than Everest). The mountain’s subalpine shrubland and cinder cones support nēnē, palila (critically endangered honeycreeper), and wēkiu bugs (summit-dwelling insects found nowhere else on Earth).
Nearby Attractions
Mauna Kea Summit — 20 miles uphill — home of the world’s premier astronomical observatories. Hilo — 30 miles east. Saddle Road — through the park.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Kalopa State Recreation Area (within about an hour’s drive) or Akaka Falls State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mauna Kea State Recreation Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Where permitted, pets must be crated, caged, on a 6-foot or shorter leash, or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches or in swimming areas statewide
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in lodges or campgrounds, so overnight accommodations are effectively pet-free
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Rules vary by park and posting; effectively day-use only in the limited unposted areas where pets are tolerated
Are dogs allowed at Mauna Kea State Recreation Area?
Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dlnr.hawaii.gov. More: Hawaii state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Mauna Kea State Recreation Area
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
