Scouting America, Aloha Council
For generations, Camp Pupukea has been a place for Scouts to explore, grow, and connect with nature in one of Hawaii’s most iconic outdoor settings. Now, Scouting America, Aloha Council is investing in the future of this 70-acre property with the construction of five new cabins that will transform this historically rustic site into a year-round destination for Scouts, schools, nonprofits, businesses, and community partners.
Camp Pupukea is part of a long-term strategy to enhance and expand use of its 70-acre conservation zoned property above Oahu’s North Shore. These new structures, designed pro bono by Honolulu-based architecture firm G70, represent a transformational step forward, elevating the historically rustic site into a year-round destination for Scouting and broader community programs.
Infrastructure that Serves Hawaii
The project brings to life key elements of the Camp Pupukea Master Plan approved by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in 2014. The Council has already completed an Environmental Assessment (EA) and secured a Conservation District Use Permit (CDUP), laying the groundwork for responsible, sustainable improvements to the site.
These new cabins are the first step in a larger vision to revitalize our camps across the islands, making them more accessible, resilient, and ready to serve as emergency support hubs when needed. Every cabin will be able to accommodate up to 25 people, with loft-style bunk beds and private rooms suitable for guests of all ages. Once completed, the site will host up to 125 overnight guests, while maintaining the rugged spirit of Pupukea.
This effort is part of Aloha Council’s broader strategic initiative to open all of its camps statewide to greater community use while maintaining their role as resources for Scouting programs. The camps are also being prepared to serve as disaster-ready sites, capable of providing shelter and logistical support during emergencies.
“We’re not just improving a Scout camp, we’re building infrastructure that serves Hawaii,” said Blake Parsons, Scout Executive and CEO of Scouting America, Aloha Council. “Camp Pupukea is becoming a place where youth, families, and organizations can gather with purpose and where we can mobilize support when our communities need it most.”
A Modern Cabin Design
The cabin designs are modern and versatile, with each unit sleeping approximately 25 guests in a loft with bunk beds and private rooms. With five cabins planned, the site will host up to 125 overnight guests—supporting year-round programs and expanded community use.
The winning design, selected by a jury of volunteers from the Council’s Properties Committee, was the result of an internal G70 competition. The cabins feature an elevated footprint to protect tree roots and reduce ground disturbance, large overhangs for shade and rain protection, and sliding doors and screened openings that maximize airflow and connect the interior directly to the natural surroundings. The materials and form reflect the rugged, forested character of Pupukea—simple, durable, and deeply connected to place.
“There’s a simplicity and honesty in the design that speaks to the spirit of the camp,” said Charles Kaneshiro, Chairman of G70 and an Eagle Scout. “As someone who camped at Pupukea as a young Scout, this place holds a special meaning for me. I’m excited we’re creating a site that will allow more people, Scouts and community groups alike, to experience the same wonder and connection to nature that I did growing up.”
Camp Pupukea as a Multiuse Community
The cabins are intended for both youth and adult use, supporting a wide range of programs including Scout and school camps, retreats, leadership training, and offsite gatherings for community and corporate groups. As Camp Pupukea evolves into a multiuse community resource, it will remain a hub for outdoor learning and leadership development.
Existing amenities, including a dining hall, commercial kitchen, swimming pool, chapel, amphitheater, and hiking trails, remain fully active. The new cabins will complement these features by enabling year-round use for a wider range of programs and community groups.
Funding for construction will come through a capital campaign launching in Q4 2025, which will include naming opportunities for cabins and other site enhancements. To learn more about the project or to support the effort, visit www.ScoutingHawaii.org.
About Scouting America, Aloha Council
Scouting America, Aloha Council has been building young leaders of character for over a century. Serving nearly 4,000 youth across Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, its programs—Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Sea Scouts, Venturing, and Exploring—provide adventure, leadership development, and service opportunities that prepare youth for success in life. Guided by a 50-member Board of business, civic, and community leaders and supported by over 2,000 volunteers, Aloha Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to strengthening youth, families, and communities through Scouting’s proven values. Join us in shaping the future.
