A Complete List of
Maui Camping Spots

Aloha! Welcome to our comprehensive list of camping spots on Maui. For its relatively small landmass, the Valley Isle offers some of the most diverse camping terrains in all of the world. It has something for every camper in its seven distinct climate zones. Its range is second only to the eleven zones found on the Big Island.

Best Maui Hawaii Campground Guide

The Maui campgrounds can be split into five types: Haleakala National Park, county, state, private, and unofficial.

We’ll give you all of the details you will need to camp with a permit in designated Maui campgrounds.

A Complete List of Maui Camping Spots
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Drive-in Campgrounds in Haleakala National Park

Two drive-in campgrounds are offered in Haleakala National Park. There is Hosmer Grove at 7,000 feet and Kipahulu down at sea level. The two sites could not be more different from one another in terms of climate and terrain. However, both sites have amenities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and pit toilets. Please note that there are no showers for use at either site, and Kipahulu does not have drinking water.

Park fees are for a 3-day pass and are required for every vehicle that enters the national park. If you plan on hiking or visiting both campsites, or if you would like to visit the national parks on the Big Island, the annual pass is your best value. Free camping at both sites is on a first come, first served basis. There is no food or gas within the park, so make sure to come prepared.

01

Hosmer Grove

Drive-in

Hosmer Grove is a drive-in camping spot between Kula and the summit of Haleakala. It is just short of a half-hour drive from each. It’s the prime example of a serene grove: a small cluster of trees and grass amidst a dry, barren, volcanic landscape.

  • Drinkable water
  • Cold temperatures
  • Car access
  • Restrooms

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.

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02

Kipahulu

Drive-in

Hosmer Grove may have the Haleakala summit, but Kipahulu has ‘Ohe’o Gulch. Also known as “Seven Sacred Pools,” this string of freshwater pools is just a 10-minute walk from the grassy campgrounds on the Kuloa Point Trail. Kipahulu is a prime place to go for hiking, some beautiful coastal scenery, and swimming in the freshwater pools.

  • Car access
  • Restrooms

‘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.

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Hike-in Wilderness Camping
and Cabins in Haleakala National Park:

There are three remote, hike-in spots to stay the night in the wilderness of Haleakala. They are Paliku, Holua, and Kapalaoa. All three of them require extensive hiking and wilderness experience, full preparation, and an adventurous spirit. Hikers will be rewarded with rare sightings of the endangered Nene bird, as well as views of volcanic cinder cones and historic lodging in the midst of desolation.

Paliku and Holua offer tent camping to those with a permit, and all three sites provide wilderness cabins with advance reservations. Permits for free tent camping can be obtained at the Haleakala Visitor’s Center from 8 am to 3 pm up to 24 hours in advance. Cabin reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance and there is a flat fee charged per night. The cabins each come with 12 bunks, a wood burning stove, and some cooking utensils and dishes, but they have no electricity.

  • The Haleakala campsites and cabins sit in remote areas.
  • First aid, supplies, and rescue can be several hours away.
  • Plan accordingly for heavy rain, high winds, high elevation, below freezing temperatures, and minimal amenities.
03

Paliku

Hike-in

The hike to Paliku is by far the most strenuous as it sits at 6,380 feet on a rain forest cliff. It’s a 9.3-10.4 mile hike in, depending on which trail you choose to take.

  • Non-potable water
  • Cold temperatures
  • Cabins available
  • Restrooms

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.

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04

Holua

Hike-in

Holua has the shortest hike of the three wilderness sites. It is 3.7 miles in on the Halemau’u Trail or 7.4 miles by way of the Sliding Sands Trail. The camping area is a blend of volcanic rock and tall grass, and sits at 6,940 feet. Holua also offers pit toilets and non-potable water and accommodates a max of 25 campers at a time.

  • Non-potable water
  • Cold temperatures
  • Cabins available
  • Restrooms
05

Kapalaoa

Hike-in Wilderness Camping and Cabins in Haleakala

The Kapalaoa cabin sits at 7,250 feet and can only be reached by either a 5.5-mile hike down the Sliding Sands Trail or a 7.3 mile hike down the Halemau’u Trail. Keep an eye out for silversword, a rare plant that is only found in Haleakala and has sword-like leaves and silver hairs. The cabin is quite rustic and has minimal amenities, but it provides a welcome refuge from the harsh conditions of Haleakala.

  • Non-potable water
  • Cold temperatures
  • Cabins available
  • Restrooms

County Campgrounds

The county campgrounds offer a minimalist approach to camping with budget rates. The prices for permits vary for Mon-Thurs, Fri-Sun, and holidays, for both residents and non-residents. Please note that there is an additional per night charge for dogs.

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Papalaua Wayside Park

County

Papalaua is the most accessible campground on the list. You can literally just pull off of the main road and onto a campsite.

There will be some noise from the nearby traffic, but it is a small price to pay for such a convenient spot and to have the ocean just footsteps in front of you.

  • Car access
  • Beach access
  • Restrooms

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.

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State Campgrounds

Two state campgrounds offer majestic Maui scenery with a small price tag and a wide range of amenities. Tent camping is charged per person per night for both residents and non-residents. You can make your reservations online.

07

Wai'anapanapa

State

Wai’anapanapa State Park sits on 122 tropical acres just outside of Hana. There is a gorgeous black sand beach, some fresh water caves, and a lava arch. It is an essential stop on the Road to Hana and is just 10 miles from town.

  • Drinkable water
  • Beach access
  • Car access
  • Showers
  • Cabins available
  • Restrooms

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!

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08

Polipoli State Park

State

Polipoli enjoys a nice climate thanks to sitting at 6,200-ft. and right in the Kula Forest Reserves. It’s well-known for its Redwood trees and lush scenery that looks more like the Pacific Northwest than Maui. It is a great place to start out on some scenic hikes, mountain biking, and trail running in the Kula area. Please note that Polipoli State Park is closed until further notice as it undergoes sewer system upgrades. Please check for current conditions.

  • Car access
  • Cold temperatures
  • Cabins available
  • Restrooms

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.

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Private Campgrounds

09

Camp Keanae

Private

Camp Keanae offers a great place for some quiet, remote camping on The Road to Hana right at Mile Marker 16 ½. The accommodations here are quite basic, but the views of the jagged Keanae Peninsula are not.

  • Drinkable water
  • Restrooms
  • Car access
  • Showers
  • Cabins available

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.

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10

Camp Olowalu

Private

Camp Olowalu is a special place. It sits just off of Honoapiilani Highway, a few minutes south of Lahaina. It has some breathtaking views of the West Maui Mountains. Found in a protected cove of sorts, Camp Olowalu is the perfect playground for those who are looking to do some kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, and whale watching (during the winter months). They have kayaks for rent on site via Kayak Olowalu.

  • Drinkable water
  • Beach access
  • Car access
  • Restrooms
  • Cabins available
  • Showers

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.

View More about Camp Olowalu

Please note that on Maui, camping is allowed only in campgrounds. We suggest only camping with a permit at any one of the campsites we have listed above. They certainly will not disappoint, and you’ll have your choice of being steps away from clear water, jagged coastal cliffs, misty mountains, or a black sand beach.

Keep Hawaii Clean Best Camping Spots Maui

There is a cleansing mental shift that only seems to come with fresh air, a tent, close family and friends, and a minimalist attitude. We encourage you to come to Maui and seek out this feeling. What is your favorite place to camp in Maui?

Local Guide

We are local Maui guide experts and Hawaii enthusiasts who love to share the Aloha spirit and our favorite things to do on Maui.