The Laukapu Forest Cottage is as beautiful in person as it is in the picture. The stretch of Laukapu Avenue that leads to the cottage is rough and bumpy, so you'll want to drive slowly and preferably arrive during daytime.
Kathyrn is an excellent host. From the very beginning she sent us frequent updates on the area, the status of the volcanic activity, things we could do in the town of Volcano, in the park, in Hilo, and elsewhere on the island. She sent links to USGS web sites on the eruption, topographical maps of the island chain, and tips on the Hawaiian language.
Kathryn lives next door with the husband, who built the cottage. When we arrived, she came over and explained everything about the cottage, the area, and the park to us. It was very informative. She was always accessible.
We experienced infrequent small earthquakes from the activity in Kilauea and the Hale Ma'uma'u crater. They were short and felt like a large truck was driving by. Not alarming at all!