Keanakolu bunkhouse, ranger cabins in Hilo Forest Reserve reopened for camping

The Keanakolu bunkhouse and ranger cabins in the Hilo Forest Reserve on Hawaiʻi Island have reopened for camping.

The site managed by the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife had been closed since October due to drought and dry conditions in the area.

The cabins offer a pleasant, rustic getaway above 5,000 feet elevation and require a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access.

The peaceful location is a great base to explore the surrounding native forest and hiking trails and is adjacent to a fruit tree orchard. Apple, pear and plum trees produce fruit between June and October with fruit available to permit holders.

Each cabin has a wood burning stove for heat. A covered outside barbecue pit and grill also are available for shared used by cabin users.

For public safety and wildfire prevention, forest reserve staff remind campers to place all ashes in the provided ash pits and extinguish cooking fires completely.

The cabins are available for camping seven days a week. Reservations can be made online at the Explore Outdoor Hawaiʻi website: outdoor.hawaii.gov.