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Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite, near Haleakalā National Park, is a unique location that offers a true backcountry experience. This area is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature, surrounded by stunning views and the rugged beauty of Maui.

The campsite features a grassy area for tent camping and a cabin that can be reserved online, though it fills up quickly. Visitors have noted the breathtaking scenery, with colorful contrasts in the crater and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. As one camper described it, “It was amazing to experience the ruggedness and purity of this beautiful part of Maui, untouched by society.”

While there are no amenities like drinking water or showers, there is an outhouse and a water source that requires filtering. Campers should come prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night, as it can drop to the 40s. The hike in is about 4-6 miles, so pack accordingly and enjoy the colorful trails leading to your campsite.

For those looking to explore, the surrounding Haleakalā National Park offers incredible hiking opportunities and the chance to see rare wildlife, like the NeNe bird. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a chance to connect with nature, Holua provides a memorable camping experience that’s hard to beat.

Reservation Info

Online reservations may be utilized to reserve sites up to six (6) months in advance The cost is $8-9 per reservation, for a maximum stay of three nights per 30 day period. This fee covers the cost of online services through the use recreation.gov, and is non-refundable.

No in-person permit reservation or pick up is available. A printed reservation from the confirmation email must be carried at all times by the trip leader. Upon receiving your reservation, watch the Leave No Trace video located on that page.

Staying overnight within Haleakalā National Park is only allowed in a designated camping area. Reservations can be made at Hosmer Grove Campground in the summit district or in Kīpahulu Campground in the coastal district.

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Location

Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park is located in Hawaii

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

20.75300044 N
156.22900018 W

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Detours Nearby

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Maui Tent Ohana

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    Excellent Coverage
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    Some Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Toilets

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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6 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2019

Awesome little park!!

Unreal! It’s like your on the moon. O! Watch for a NeNe, this bird is very rare and lives on at the top of this mountain . Beware the road it going up is all twists and turns. Be careful if you get carsick or are severely hungover 🤢

  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Shae M., August 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Shae M., August 8, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 17, 2019

beautiful but rainy campground in the clouds

We hiked through here on a day hike through the crater, and stopped here to rest and chat with some campers. The campground has one cabin available to reserve online (but reservations fill up fast) and then a grassy area to camp with a tent in. The guys we talked to said it was constantly raining the night before, so they camped in a small lava cave near the campground. It was a beautiful area of the crater to be in - truly 'in the clouds' - but it was misting the whole time we were there and I'm not sure I'd want to spend a night there if it was in a tent. The cabin seemed well maintained. There's an outhouse/toilet there, as well as water that must be treated/filtered. It was about 6-7 miles in, starting from the Sliding Sands Trail, or about 4 miles from Halemau'u Trailhead.

  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Jordan T., June 17, 2019
  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Jordan T., June 17, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 3, 2019

A stunning and secluded backcountry campsite

Holua is one of two dispersed backcountry camping sites within the crater district of Haleakala National Park. A backcountry camping permit must be obtained from the visitor center to stay at Holua. Depending on where you start, it is a 4-6 mile hike into the site. Dispersed campsites are a 3 minute hike up the trail to the left as you arrive to the Holua cabin and located throughout the flat land next to the horse stables. The scenery here is absolutely stunning! Abutted next to the west-facing side of the crater wall, the magnificent color contrasts in the crater are on display at this campsite. We were lucky to be the only ones camping here. It was amazing to experience the ruggedness and purity of this beautiful part of Maui, untouched by society.

Things to note: as with all of the backcountry campsites and cabins of Haleakala, a water filter is necessary to filter the non-potable water. Bring layers and warm rated sleeping bags as it will easily get down to sub 40’s at night. And of course sun protection during the day.

  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Bryce K., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Bryce K., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Bryce K., June 3, 2019
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Reviewed Sep. 27, 2016

Solitude that Requires Winter Attire in Hawaii

A beautiful, colorful hike above the clouds leads to an open camping area. It is about 4 miles of hiking, and just past a cabin that is sometimes available for use. Fortunately, I had brought layers. It was August and I don't know what the temperature was, but I know I could see my breath when I exhaled! I was solo, there were a total of 4 other people camping - a family of 2 that appeared to be there for some period of time (although the limit is 3 nights) and another group of 2. Our sites were so far apart though that we didn't really interact at all.

Permit info, copied from the park service website: Camping permits can be obtained at the Headquarters Visitor Center between 8:00am and 3:00pm up to one day in advance. Permits are free and require photo identification and a 10-minute orientation.

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2016

Backcountry camping on lava!

Dispersed camping means you find your own site within a certain allowed reason. This usually means you need to pick up a permit, you backpack in, the facilities are limited. The hike to the crater is 3.8 miles at the shortest, sot this is a backpacking trip. This means there are fewer people and you get a beautiful, isolated experience. Camping on lava flows is like nothing else. Gets chilly all times of the year due to the elevation. If you're in a large group these are great options, but I didn't see anyone else anywhere out here. My phone didn't work (which is how I like it!), but it was a few years ago. A true Hawaiian backcountry experience without too much effort.

Reviewed Jun. 16, 2016

Quiet and untouched by tourism

Had an amazing time hiking into the crater! When we got to the camp sites we were the only people camping. The camp sites offer tons of privacy and it really feels like your group is the only people in the crater. The views are magnificent and the temperatures are perfect for a good night of snuggles under the stars. Another plus is you don't need to worry about very many poisonous or dangerous animals just some friendly nene (people must feed them despite the signs saying not to). There is also a water source and an outhouse neer the campsites. The water does need to be filtered though. Best part about it is if you are exploring Maui you are guaranteed to escape the huge crowds of tourists ruining the peaceful views with selfie sticks and kids screaming .

  • Review photo of Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite — Haleakalā National Park by Jordan H., June 16, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Holua Campground and Holua Cabin in Haleakala?

Holua Campground and Holua Cabin are located in the same area but offer different accommodation options. The campground is a dispersed, primitive camping area with a grassy field for pitching tents, while the cabin is a structured shelter located just a short distance away. The cabin requires separate reservations that fill up quickly and must be made well in advance. Unlike the open camping area, the cabin provides more protection from the elements, which can be beneficial as the area experiences frequent rain. Both options require hiking in and are located within the spectacular crater environment.

What amenities are available at Holua Campground in Haleakala National Park?

Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite offers very limited amenities, typical of a backcountry experience. The campground provides a designated grassy area for tent camping with some privacy between sites. There are no electrical hookups, showers, or running water. A basic pit toilet/outhouse is available for campers. Due to its remote location within the crater, campers need to pack in all necessary supplies including water, food, and cooking equipment. The campground offers spectacular views and a true wilderness experience, making the minimal facilities worthwhile for those seeking solitude in Haleakala's unique landscape.

How do I access Holua Campground in Haleakala National Park?

Accessing Holua Campground requires a moderately challenging hike into Haleakala's crater. The shortest route is approximately 3.8-4 miles long, though multiple trail options exist depending on your starting point. Most hikers access the campground via the Sliding Sands Trail or Halemau'u Trail. The hike involves significant elevation change as you descend into the crater. Be prepared for potentially changing weather conditions, including rain and cool temperatures, even in summer months. The drive to the trailhead includes many twists and turns up the mountain, which can cause carsickness for some travelers. Always check current trail conditions at the visitor center before starting your hike.

Do I need a permit to camp at Holua Campground in Haleakala?

Yes, a backcountry camping permit is required to camp at Holua Campground. You must obtain this permit from the Haleakala National Park visitor center before your trip. Permits are limited and issued on a first-come, first-served basis to manage the number of campers in this pristine wilderness area. Be sure to secure your permit early, especially during peak seasons, as availability can be limited. The permit system helps preserve the natural environment and ensures a quality wilderness experience for all visitors.