Campers leave Spencer Park without incident

KAILUA-KONA — Hawaii County officials said dozens of campers left Spencer beach park without incident after being asked to leave.

The county received reports of unpermitted campers at the North Kohala park during the weekend, some of whom were displaced by the eruption in lower Puna.

Between 40 and 50 campers were reported. Some did have permits and others weren’t leaving evacuation zones.

Managing Director Wil Okabe said Tuesday the unpermitted campers left without incident. Police said Monday no citations were issued.

“We’re trying to accommodate the community as much as possible,” Okabe said. He added that with shelters open in Puna, resources are available for those needing temporary housing.

“There really wasn’t a need to go to the Kona side,” he said.

Spencer park, meanwhile, is closed for renovations this week.