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Camper submitted image from Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area CampingView 19 Photos
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Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping

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Within Kula Forest Reserve, Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping sits high in Maui's upcountry at 6,200 feet elevation. This state-managed campground requires tent camping only, with no RV accommodations available. The forested setting creates a distinctly non-tropical Hawaiian experience, tucked in clouds and surrounded by trees rather than beaches and ocean views.

Access involves rough roads that require careful navigation. The campground provides picnic tables and ADA-accessible facilities, with reservations available for the $20 nightly fee. Campers can explore hiking trails leading to abandoned ranger stations and cave formations. For additional camping options in the region, consider campgrounds near Kihei at lower elevations.

Fee Info

4-wheel Drive Vehicle Required

Residents = $20 Per Night, Per Campsite
Non-Residents = $30 Per Night, Per Campsite

CABIN

Residents = $70 Per Night
Non-Residents = $100 Per Night
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Map & DirectionsPolipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping is located in Hawaii near Kihei

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

9.7 miles upland from Kula on Waipoli Road off Kekaulike Avenue (Highway 377)

Coordinates

20.6791305541992 N
156.327880859375 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Visitors frequently highlighted the unique upcountry forest setting and diverse outdoor activities including hiking, swimming holes, and cliff jumping. Several guests noted the area's popularity and busy atmosphere during peak times. The location offers convenient access to local restaurants and recreational rentals nearby.

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

Loved playing on the beach

Maui has become one of my favorite places to visit. My husband and I come here every year for our wedding anniversary. We love camping to save money, or staying in AirBNBs as well. This trip we decide to stay in a hotel, but we came to this State Rec Area to do some hiking, snorkeling and hanging at the beach. Not sure where you would camp in this area, but I’m sure there is a designated area. The water in some areas are a bit rough, so be careful. We found a great spot that had calm waters, and we did some snorkeling here. We loved getting in the water and seeing the underwater life. Another thing we did was a boat excursion where we did some fishing. This was a bit expensive but worth it. The boat rental place was right next to this park- which is how we saw the rental area. We were walking along the beach boardwalk and saw this company. We went in and started talking with the people, and decided to book for the next day. It was such an incredible experience and I’m so glad we did it.

Month of VisitJuly
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  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Isabella H., August 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Isabella H., August 31, 2018
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2018

Doesn’t even feel like Hawaii

Polipoli does not even feel like you’re in Hawaii! I mean this in the best way possible! Hawaii is amazing with all the beaches, ocean views, and sunshine. Polipoli is high upcountry tucked in the clouds and forests. The hike from the recreational area leads you to two abandoned ranger stations which are super cool! It also starts out by bringing you past these crazy caves! Definitely a must see while in Maui!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Savannah G., August 29, 2018
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  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Savannah G., August 29, 2018
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Reviewed Aug. 17, 2018

Gorgeous!

The Polipoli State Park is one of my favorites. There is great swimming holes you can swim in that arent too aggressive. There is also a great place to do some cliff jumping, and all the locals hang out here jumping. One thing I like about this park is that it is close by the town where you can walk to and get lunch. There are some really great restaurants with yummy local food. They have a smoothie shop that is incredible with so many different flavors. Highly recommend. They have some great places where you can rent body boards. We rented some for the morning and had an absolute blast. Seems like this park was pretty busy when we were there. The paths are filled with people walking, running, roller blading and skateboarding. Lots of dogs too. There are picnic tables and those seemed to be all taken with people eating lunch and hanging out. I would recommend getting there early in the day if you want a good spot.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Sasha W., August 17, 2018
  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Sasha W., August 17, 2018
  • Review photo of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Camping by Sasha W., August 17, 2018
  • (10) View All
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there cabins available at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area?

There is no indication of cabins being available at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area. The site primarily offers camping opportunities for visitors. For accommodation options, campers typically bring their own tents and camping gear. For those seeking more substantial shelter, consider nearby alternatives like Airbnbs or hotels in the surrounding areas, then visit Polipoli for day activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring the forest.

What reviews do visitors give about Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area?

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area earns high marks from visitors for its unique atmosphere that differs dramatically from typical Hawaiian settings. The area features refreshing swimming holes suitable for various skill levels, including spots for cliff jumping that are popular with locals. Hikers appreciate the trails leading to abandoned ranger stations, while the forested, cloud-covered upcountry setting provides a refreshing contrast to Maui's beaches. Many visitors combine a trip here with other activities like snorkeling and hiking, making it a versatile destination within a Maui vacation itinerary.

Where is Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area located on Maui?

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is located in the upcountry region of Maui, high in elevation and often nestled in clouds and forest. Its unique positioning provides a completely different experience from coastal Maui, with cooler temperatures and lush forest surroundings. The recreation area is positioned within reasonable distance of town areas, making it convenient to access supplies if needed. This elevated location offers a refreshing forest environment that starkly contrasts with Maui's tropical beaches and ocean settings.

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