Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Kaneohe Marine Corps Base Natural Areas encompass approximately 3,800 acres of rare and vital native Hawaiian ecosystems located on the windward side of Oahu, Hawaii. These protected lands are primarily within the boundaries of Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), serving both ecological preservation and military functions. The area includes coastal strand, lowland dry forest, upland wet forest, and native shrubland habitats which provide refuge for many native and endemic species, including several federally endangered plants and birds such as the Hawaiian hoary bat and the endangered Hawaiian gallinule. Historically, the land was used by native Hawaiians for traditional agricultural and fishing purposes before its development as a military base during World War II. Today, it remains under military jurisdiction, limiting general public access but allowing for research, conservation work, and limited guided tours by appointment. Kaneohe Marine Corps Base Natural Areas are critical for maintaining biodiversity on Oahu by protecting habitats from invasive species and providing a refuge for native flora and fauna. Visitors with access enjoy opportunities for guided hikes, wildlife viewing, and the chance to experience some of the island’s best-preserved native ecosystems. Notable landmarks within the area include ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites and rare native plant populations. The juxtaposition of this natural refuge within an active military installation makes its protection both complex and essential to preserving Oahu’s ecological legacy.
