Camping at Haleakalā National Park

Overview of Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park is located on the island of Maui in Hawaii. It is known for the massive Haleakalā volcano, from which the park gets its name. The park covers over 33,000 acres of land, ranging from lush tropical areas near sea level to the barren, moon-like landscapes at the summit of Haleakalā, which is over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) high.

Camping in Haleakalā National Park

Hosmer Grove Campground:

• Located near the park entrance at around 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) of elevation.
• Offers access to a forest of Eucalyptus and native shrubs, birds, and other wildlife.
• First-come, first-served basis; no reservations are needed.
• Very limited facilities: picnic tables, BBQ grills, and pit toilets are available.
• Can be cold, so warm gear and proper camping equipment are necessary.

Kīpahulu Campground:

• Situated on the coastal side of the park, near the Kīpahulu Visitor Center.
• Reservations are not required, and camping is on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Facilities include pit toilets and picnic tables.
• There is no water available at the campground, so bring your own.
• Offers views of the ocean and access to freshwater pools.

Wilderness Camping:

• Requires a permit that can be obtained from the park visitor centers.
• Campsites include Holua in the crater near the Halemau‘u Trail and Palikū on the east end of the wilderness area.
• These sites have very basic facilities (a pit toilet, but no water).
• Campers must pack in all supplies, including water and pack out all trash.
• It's essential to be prepared for a range of temperatures and conditions.

Cabins:

• Three wilderness cabins are located in the crater area.
• Reservations are required and can be made up to 180 days in advance.
• The cabins are equipped with a wood-burning stove and some bunk beds but no mattresses.
• Campers must pack in their own supplies, including water, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment.

General Camping Rules and Tips

• It is important to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
• Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for various conditions, including cold temperatures at higher elevations.
• Always store food securely to protect against non-native species like rats and mice.
• Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
• It’s important to check the official Haleakalā National Park website for the most current conditions, regulations, and any alerts before planning your trip.

Reservations and Permits

• Wilderness camping requires a permit.
• Wilderness cabin reservations can be made online or by calling the reservation line.
• Check the National Park Service's official Haleakalā National Park website for specific information on how to obtain permits and make reservations.

Please Note: The availability of campsites and cabins, as well as the rules regarding camping, can change due to weather conditions, volcanic activity, and other factors. Always check the current status prior to your visit.