A Complete List of
Maui Camping Spots

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

The site sleeps 50 people and allows dogs on leashes. Hosmer Grove generally gets quiet quickly 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, although the sunset is arguably just as beautiful with virtually no traffic.

Note that it gets cold in Hosmer Grove. Very cold! Make sure to bring several layers of winter clothes and an insulated sleeping bag. Temperatures below freezing are common but this is still an ideal spot for a quiet evening of stargazing and a majestic morning.

‘Ohe’o Gulch is a popular tourist attraction on the Hana Highway, so it’s best to go early in the morning before the crowds arrive to get a good view of it. Park signs prohibit jumping into the pools and contain reprinted articles highlighting associated deaths.

Consider taking the less-traveled Pipiwai Trail later in the day to the awe-inspiring 400-foot Waimoku Falls and a nearby bamboo forest.

Rare birds like the ‘Iwa with its characteristic red throat and the non-native Myna can sometimes be spotted 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 adjacent to cliffs overlooking the ocean, but with the proximity to the ocean and rainforest come mosquitos. Nighttime brings sounds of acoustic guitar and waves crashing on the cliffs.

The closest groceries are in Hana, about 10 miles away at Hasegawa General Store.

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

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

Aside from its convenience, Papalaua has much to offer. It sits on a stretch of water called “Thousand Peaks,” that is popular with beginner surfers in the summertime. It’s also a popular spot for fishing, body surfing, and snorkeling. Papalaua is literally right on the water. Make sure you take rising tides into account when setting 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 for groceries and supplies, but Papalaua is a short drive from both Lahaina and Ma’alaea. Note that the park is has no water and is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The general vibe is laid back and serene, and Papalaua is the perfect place to meet local surfers and fisherman.

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

Wai’anapanapa is the place to stay overnight in the Hana area, providing some of the best views on the island and 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 open, Polipoli has both tent camping and single cabins for rent that can accommodate up to eight people. Temperatures often reach freezing, and rain is common in this wet, chilly region.

The road to Polipoli is easily more difficult than the Hana Highway and requires a 4WD vehicle capable of navigating 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 Mauna Kea summit on the Big Island.

This YMCA-run spot offers tent camping, van camping spaces, cabins capable of sleeping 12 to 60 people, and 2-bedroom cottages with lanais overlooking the ocean.

Rates are discounted for YMCA members in tents. Prices are slightly higher for non-members. Camp Keanae can accommodate large groups at various prices.

As with many places in East Maui, the nearest grocery store is a trek, in this case about 45 minutes. Guests are urged to prepare properly by bringing their own linens, charcoal, cooler, camp stove, etc.

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

The closest food is at Olowalu General Store and the Olowalu Cultural Reserve Farmer’s Market. Lahaina is just a short drive away.

For those who want a little more luxury, A-frame cabins with 6 cots, fans, outlets, and storage space are also available. The cabins come with a private 900-square foot dining hall and a kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, freezer, cookware, and utensils. They also have Wi-Fi and a washer and dryer. Cabins can be rented per night for up to 36 people, making Camp Olowalu a great option for birthday parties, weddings, and family reunions. A 20% kamaaina discount is also available.