A Complete List of
Maui Camping Spots

The grove takes its name from Ralph Hosmer. In the early 1900s, he planted a variety of non-native trees in hopes of establishing timber farming on the land. A sign at the start of the self-guided nature trail describes Hosmer’s venture as a “failed experiment.” However, the half-mile loop makes for such a relaxing early morning walk as you pass through pine, spruce, cedar, and eucalyptus trees with the sounds of birds singing just after the sun rises.

The site sleeps up to 50 people and dogs are allowed as long as they are kept on leashes. Hosmer Grove generally gets quiet soon after sundown, as most campers are there to beat the sunrise summit crowds, which start as early as 4 am. The sunrise is not to be missed, but it’s worth noting that the sunset is arguably just as beautiful with almost no crowds.

Note that it does get cold in Hosmer Grove. Very cold! Make sure that you bring at least a few layers of winter clothes and an insulated sleeping bag. It is common for temperatures to dip below freezing, but this is still an ideal spot for a nice, quiet evening of stargazing and a majestic morning.

‘Ohe’o Gulch is a popular spot for tourists on the Hana Highway, so it’s best to go early in the morning to get a good view of it before it gets too crowded. Please note that jumping into the pools here is prohibited. There are signs through the park and some contain prints of news articles highlighting some associated deaths.

After ‘Ohe’o Gulch, we suggest that you take the less-traveled Pipiwai Trail later in the day. This trail leads to the awe-inspiring 400-foot Waimoku Falls and a nearby bamboo forest.

Rare birds like the ‘Iwa with its bright red throat, and the non-native Myna can sometimes be seen on this 4-mile loop trail.

Kipahulu can accommodate up to 100 people on its grassy, sunny lawn. It’s perfect for tossing a frisbee or having a BBQ with friends. It sits next to cliffs that overlook the ocean, but with its nearness to the ocean and the rainforest come the mosquitos. Nighttime brings with it the sounds of acoustic guitar and waves crashing on the cliffs.

Make a note that the closest groceries to be found are in Hana, about 10 miles away, at Hasegawa General Store.

The Keoneheʻeheʻe or “Sliding Sands” trail route offers an isolated, volcanic landscape while the Halemau’u Trail has lush greenery. The climate in this area is quite prone to fog and rain, so make sure that you are prepared for anything.

Pit toilets and non-potable water are available. The site can accommodate no more than 25 people at a time.

Aside from its convenience, Papalaua has so much to offer. It sits on a stretch of water called “Thousand Peaks,” that is quite popular with beginner surfers in the summer. It’s also a popular spot for those looking to fish, body surf, and snorkel. Papalaua is literally right on the water. Make sure you take the rising tides into account when you set up your tent, so you don’t wake up to a wave crashing on you in your sleep!

The Olowalu General Store is the closest place if you need groceries and supplies, but Papalaua is just a short drive from both Lahaina and Ma’alaea. Please note that the park has no water and is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The general vibe at Papalua is laid back and serene. This is the perfect place to meet and talk with local surfers and fishermen.

Wai’anapanapa’s offers cabins and both tent and van camping. The tent camping sites overlook the beach and lava arch, and they open up into walking paths that lead to both places. These sites have plenty of shade thanks to a canopy of trees, and on-site showers and bathrooms. Reservations can be made online. When they are open, the cabins can accommodate up to six people.

Wai’anapanapa is the best place to stay overnight in the Hana area. It provides some of the best views to be had on the island. It also has a few of the most easily accessible activities, like hiking to lava caves and swimming in clear, clean water. Make sure to stop by a local fruit stand on the way in!

When it is open, Polipoli has both tent camping and single cabins for rent that can each sleep up to eight people. Temperatures will often drop down to freezing, and rain is quite common in this wet and chilly region.

The road to Polipoli is much more difficult than the Hana Highway. It requires a 4WD vehicle that is capable of traversing a foggy dirt road full of switchbacks and large potholes. On a clear day, the reward of this drive is the view of grazing cattle against the backdrop of the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island.

This spot is run by the YMCA and offers plenty of options for your stay. There are spaces for tent camping and van camping, cabins that can sleep from 12 to 60 people, and 2-bedroom cottages with lanais overlooking the ocean.

Their rates are discounted for YMCA members who camp in tents. The prices are slightly higher for those who are not members. Camp Keanae can accommodate large groups at varied prices.

As with many places in East Maui, the nearest grocery store is a bit of a trek. In this case, it is about 45 minutes away. Guests here should make sure to prepare properly by bringing their own linens, charcoal, cooler, camp stove, etc.

Camp Olowalu has 36 tent camping sites that are filled on a first come, first served basis. There are 2 enclosed showers, one outdoor shower, some drinkable water, picnic tables, and grills.

If you need to buy food, the closest choices will be at Olowalu General Store and the Olowalu Cultural Reserve Farmer’s Market. Lahaina is just a short drive away as well.

For those who would like a bit more luxury, there are some A-frame cabins for rent that each have 6 cots, fans, outlets, and storage space. They also have Wi-Fi and a washer and dryer. The cabins give you access to a private 900-square foot dining hall and a kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, freezer, cookware, and utensils. The cabins can be rented by the night for up to 36 people. This makes Camp Olowalu a great choice for birthday parties, weddings, and family reunions. A 20% kamaaina discount is also available.