A Hawaii vacation doesn't have to be expensive. If you're willing to pitch a tent, you can have a lot of fun camping free on the island of Oahu and some areas on the Big Island and Maui. What better way to experience Hawaii first-hand than by waking up to and going to sleep to the sound of the ocean or mountains?

The State of Hawaii maintains campsites on all islands. The Big Island has camping and cabin sites around the island. Camping in Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is free with a paid entry fee to the park. Reservations are required for the cabin sites in the National Park. Kauai has several beach and mountain camping sites as well as the popular Kokee Lodge Cabins. Molokai has two state campsites, Lanai has six semi-rural campsites on the beach, and Maui has mountain and ocean campgrounds and cabins. Camping in Haleakala National Park on Maui is free with permit. Oahu has the most campsites of all the islands. Kualoa Beach Park on Oahu is popular for its hot showers, barbecue pits, and well-taken care of camping areas.

Camping permits are required for most campgrounds and camping fees range from free to less than $10 per night. Cabin rentals can start at less than $50 per night.

If sleeping on the ground doesn't interest you, but you might not mind sharing a bathroom and don't need the frills of a hotel, check out a hostel. Hostel prices start at under $20 per night, even in Waikiki. Depending on the hostel, you can find a private room, private studio, or a cabin for several people.

Whether you choose a free campsite or a cabin by the sea, you can't go wrong since you'll be in Hawaii! Happy Camping!