Kilauea Military Camp (KMC) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Kilauea Military Camp (KMC) is a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facility located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island, also known as the Big Island. Established in 1916, KMC has a rich history of serving U.S. military personnel, Department of Defense (DoD) employees, and their families by providing lodging, dining, and recreational activities in a unique volcanic setting.

Mission and Vision

KMC's mission is to offer a family-friendly environment that combines relaxation with adventure, allowing guests to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The vision is to maintain a high-quality resort that caters to the needs of military members and their families, fostering community and well-being.

Primary Area of Focus

KMC focuses on providing affordable accommodations, dining options, and recreational activities tailored to military personnel and their families. The facility offers one to seven-bedroom cottages and apartments equipped with modern amenities, including kitchens, jetted tubs, fireplaces, and cable TV.

Industry Significance

As part of the DoD's MWR program, KMC plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for military members and their families. Its unique location within a national park offers a distinctive experience that combines leisure with educational and cultural enrichment.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Enhancing Guest Experience: Continuously improving facilities and services to meet the evolving needs of military families.

Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of community among guests through organized events and activities.

Sustainability: Implementing environmentally responsible practices to preserve the natural beauty of the park.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Accommodations: Offering a range of lodging options from one to seven-bedroom units, suitable for individuals, families, and groups.

Recreational Activities: Providing guided tours, live entertainment, and access to various outdoor activities within the national park.

Dining Services: Operating the Crater Rim Café and Lava Lounge, offering diverse dining options to guests.

Key Technologies Utilized

Online Reservation System: An integrated platform for booking accommodations and activities.

Wi-Fi Connectivity: Ensuring reliable internet access throughout the facility for guests.

Primary Markets Targeted

Active Duty Military: Serving members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Retired Military Personnel: Offering services to veterans and their families.

DoD Civilians: Including Department of Defense employees and their dependents.

Sponsored Guests: Individuals invited by eligible patrons.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a government-operated facility, KMC's funding primarily comes from the Department of Defense's MWR program, supplemented by revenue generated from lodging, dining, and recreational services. Specific financial details are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Developments

In December 2024, the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association temporarily relocated its visitor center park store to KMC's Koa Room, adjacent to the lobby, to accommodate renovations at the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center.

Pipeline Development

Renovation Projects

KMC has undertaken several renovation projects to enhance guest experience, including the restoration of cabins, the cafeteria, lounge, administration building, dormitory, and retail store. These improvements aim to modernize facilities while preserving the camp's historical charm.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Integrated Reservation System: A user-friendly platform for booking accommodations and activities.

Digital Communication Tools: Utilizing email and social media to engage with guests and provide updates.

Significant Scientific Methods

Environmental Conservation Practices: Implementing sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact within the national park.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Randy Hart: Served as KMC's director from 1989 to 1992 and as the first civilian director for the past 20 years, overseeing operations and strategic direction.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for military MWR facilities is characterized by a focus on providing quality services to military personnel and their families. Competitors include other military resorts and recreational facilities within national parks and military installations.

Competitor Analysis

Hale Koa Hotel: Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, this Armed Forces Recreation Center offers accommodations and amenities to military personnel and their families.

Fort DeRussy Military Reservation: Also in Honolulu, providing recreational facilities and lodging for military members.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

KMC collaborates with the National Park Service to ensure the preservation of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park while providing recreational opportunities to guests. The temporary relocation of the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association's visitor center park store to KMC's Koa Room is an example of such collaboration.

Operational Insights

KMC's unique location within a national park offers a distinctive competitive advantage, providing guests with unparalleled access to natural attractions and recreational activities. The facility's commitment to sustainability and community engagement further differentiates it in the market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Facility Upgrades: Continuing renovations to modernize accommodations and amenities.

Program Expansion: Introducing new recreational activities and events to enhance guest experience.

Community Outreach: Strengthening partnerships with local organizations to offer diverse programs and services.

Future Business Directions

KMC aims to expand its offerings by introducing new recreational activities and events, enhancing the overall guest experience. Strengthening partnerships with local organizations will provide guests with diverse programs and services, fostering a sense of community and engagement.