The Self-Serve Camping Experience

What a self-serve campground means at Kona Hills

At Kona Hills, “self-serve” means you skip the traditional check-in desk. There’s no on-site payment, no office—everything happens online and on your own terms. You book online, arrive when you're ready, and settle into your site with ease. It keeps the experience simple, peaceful, and focused on the outdoors.

    • Book Online—There is no on-site office or payment system. We do not accept cash. All reservations must be made online with card payment.

    • Arrive Anytime After 3 PM — there’s no check-in desk, arrive no sooner than 3PM. Keep in mind quiet hours are 10PM-8AM. Arrival before 10PM is strongly encouraged.

    • Take responsibility for being informed and stop at the Welcome Area — thoroughly read your confirmation email and stop at the Welcome Area on your way in to review rules, updates, and important details.

    • Know your Campsite Number — it’s in your confirmation email. Go directly to that spot and set up.

  • 1. Freedom & Flexibility
    No lines, no waiting. Arrive on your own schedule and step straight into nature.

    2. A True Nature Escape
    Less fuss, more forest. Fewer interruptions means more time for campfires, stars, and quiet.

    3. Budget-Friendly Simplicity
    Without the cost of a staffed check-in desk or full amenities, we can keep pricing accessible—currently just $39/night with basic essentials like fire rings, picnic tables, water via hand-pump, and portable toilets for 2025.

    4. Aligned With Our Rustic Vision
    Kona Hills is built for solitude and simplicity. With 40 sites spread across 80 acres of forested land perched 200 feet above Lake Superior, our goal is to preserve wilderness—not crowd it.

    5. Built to Evolve
    2025 is just season one. We started modestly to grow thoughtfully—future plans include permanent restrooms, a sauna, expanded trails, and more amenities as the campground matures.

  • Kona Hills is self-serve, but that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Our team is on-site every day to keep things running smoothly and to ensure everyone respects the land and each other.

    • Daily presence — Staff and camp host are here to answer questions, offer support, and assist if you need help

    • Facility checks — Keeping toilets, firewood stocked, and other amenities clean and functional

    • Land work — Maintaining roads, creating and improving trails, and opening new sites

    • Leave No Trace — Inspecting sites after checkout to ensure they’re left in good condition

    • Evening rounds — Confirming campers are in their assigned sites, following rules, and enjoying their stay responsibly

    Enjoy the freedom of self-serve camping knowing we’re here to support you—and to keep Kona Hills safe, respectful, and wild.

  • At Kona Hills, self-serve isn’t just a convenience—it’s a statement. It’s about enjoying quiet independence, embracing a simpler pace, and making camping more about the land and less about logistics.

    Ready for a hands-free, nature-first camping experience? Book your site today!

A van camper is set up in the background along with camping chairs around a firepit. A dog is laying down looking at the camera, clearly enjoying the camping experience!

Photo Credit: Sabrina Leigh Studios