The state next month plans to begin processing camping and lodging reservations and permits online.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources says the new system will eliminate the need for the public to physically visit state park offices.

It is also expected to save the state the staff time and costs of processing permit applications and payments that have been mailed or faxed in.

Members of the public may still visit state offices in person for permit service, if they prefer. The state plans to stop processing mail-in permit requests.

On Tuesday, the Division of State Parks will not be issuing camping or lodging permits at offices on Maui, Kauai or the Big Island as employees spend the day learning to use and manage the new system.