Kaaha Shelter — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Camping | Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Backcountry hikers exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can access this shelter-style accommodation through the park's backcountry permit system. Kaaha Shelter operates under National Park Service management and requires advance reservations, though camping fees are waived. The shelter sits within the park's designated backcountry zones, where visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles and backcountry regulations.

The location provides access to volcanic landscapes and hiking opportunities throughout the park system. Other backcountry options include Halape Shelter — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Pepeiao Cabin — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Secure permits well in advance, as backcountry sites fill quickly during peak seasons.

Reservation Info

For backcountry camping, there is a non-refundable $10.00 fee per trip, in addition to the park entrance fee. The fee is good for up to 10 people and 7 nights per permit. Failure to obtain a backcountry permit is a violation of 36 CFR 2.10(b)(8). Violators may be subject to fines up to $1000 and/or 6 months in jail. All eight backcountry campsites (Ka‘aha, Halapē, Keauhou, ‘Āpua Point, Nāpau, Pepeiao Cabin, Red Hill Cabin and Mauna Loa Cabin) require a permit, with a stay limit of three consecutive nights at one site. Campers can move to another backcountry site for the fourth night, but no more than 7 consecutive nights per permit. Stays longer than 7 nights require purchasing an additional $10.00 permit. Sites may be reserved up to a week in advance and are reserved upon receipt of permit fees. Fees for backcountry camping can be paid in person at the Backcountry Office by credit card, personal check, cash (exact change please), or online through pay.gov up to a week in advance of your departure. Physical permits must be picked up no more than 24 hours in advance from the Backcountry Office, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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