MEDIA RELEASE

Mauna Kea State Park will be closed for renovation starting Tuesday, July 1, and remain closed until further notice. However, temporary restrooms will be provided to accommodate the public.

They will be kept open around the clock and located at the administrative building fronting the park’s main entrance.

The shutdown is needed to expedite the work and ensure the public’s safety while the park’s restrooms, parking lot and picnic area are refurbished.

Maintenance crews will be using heavy equipment to improve the park located near the 34-mile marker of the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road.

Work will be performed by the county Department of Parks and Recreation with support from the Department of Public Works.

On July 1, Hawaii County will assume responsibility for Mauna Kea State Park. Plans call for renaming the park Mauna Kea Recreation Area.

The public will be notified when the park is reopened. Until then, no camping reservations will be taken and permits required for overnight use will not be issued.

The Department of Parks and Recreation apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of Mauna Kea State Park and requests the public’s patience and understanding while it implements these critical improvements for the benefit of residents and visitors.