Hawaii Reopened Select State Parks and Forest Lands
Officials restored access to key reserves and recreational areas following the passage of Hurricane Nolo.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in National Parks
Live Poll
Do you feel safe visiting state parks and forest lands immediately after a major storm?
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has reopened several state parks and forest lands across Hawaii. The decision follows the successful assessment of conditions after the recent impact of Hurricane Nolo.
Why it matters
Restoring access to these public lands allows residents and visitors to return to outdoor recreation while officials continue monitoring the remaining closed areas. The agency is prioritizing safety by selectively clearing managed zones for public use.
Access has been restored to the Mana Plains Forest Reserve, the Waimea Canyon area, and the Keahua Arboretum parking lot. Additionally, three Hunting Unit C check stations are now operational in Princeville, Moloa'a, and Kapahi.
The players
Department of Land and Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for managing, protecting, and conserving Hawaii's unique natural and cultural resources.
The details
The Department of Land and Natural Resources is actively updating the OuterSpatial app to provide the public with the latest information regarding specific park statuses. While several areas have reopened, the agency continues to manage closures on other trails and wildlife lands, and campers who were displaced by storm closures are eligible for refunds.
Timeline
October 2, 2026: The Department of Land and Natural Resources reopened select parks and forest lands.
Travel Outlook
This reopening aligns with the state's established emergency closure protocols used to manage recreational sites during hazardous weather. These fluctuations reflect the ongoing balance between maintaining public access and ensuring environmental safety throughout Hawaii's peak and shoulder seasons.
Travelers and residents should check the OuterSpatial app for real-time status updates before heading to forest reserves or hiking areas. Those who had camping reservations canceled due to the storm should process their refunds through the official state channels.
The takeaway
Visitors should remain cautious in areas that have recently reopened, as some secondary trails may still be impacted by the storm. Always verify current conditions online to avoid closed zones and ensure a safe outdoor experience.
Further reading
For more information on outdoor access, visit the National Parks section.
More information
Check the current status of managed areas on the DLNR state park closure app.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Garden Island.
Live Poll
Do you feel safe visiting state parks and forest lands immediately after a major storm?
