Haleakala National Park campsites spread across multiple ecological zones, from coastal areas at sea level to alpine environments over 10,000 feet in elevation. Temperature variations between camping locations can exceed 40 degrees on the same day. The park features both frontcountry drive-up camping and wilderness sites requiring hiking permits obtained no more than one day in advance.
What to do
Birdwatching in unique habitats: The Hosmer Grove area provides exceptional birdwatching opportunities due to its diverse plant life. "The campground is home to a nature trail through a Frankenstein'd woods where they planted numerous different trees after logging the area in the old days searching for a fast growing tree they could then log again. The bird watching is wild. The confluence of water and mixed plants makes this a perfect spot for bird watching, including some rare and endangered birds," notes a camper at Hosmer Grove Campground.
Explore ancient lava tubes: Multiple hiking trails from camping areas lead to lava caves and tubes. "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!" reports a visitor to Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Coastal campsites offer water sport rentals. "Can take relatively affordable kayaking tours from the campgrounds or rent SUP/kayaks for very affordable rates," notes a camper about Camp Olowalu.
What campers like
The isolation and nature immersion: Backcountry campers appreciate the solitude. "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," describes a visitor to Holua Primitive Wilderness Campsite.
Unique ecosystem transitions: The east side of the crater offers dramatic ecological contrasts. "The beauty of this campground is even more apparent after hiking through the barren landscape of the lava fields to get here. After trekking nearly 10 miles from the visitor center, you'll be welcomed to take your boots off and step on the lush grass that grows all over the campsite, quite the contrast from all of the 'a'a lava you've just been walking through," describes a visitor to Paliku Backcountry Campsite.
Exclusive sunrise views: Camping inside the park provides early access before day visitors arrive. "We were able to park and watch the sun from the summit. It seems that reservations must be checked at the entrance gate, which is right before Hosmer Grove. If you don't have a reservation and really want to see that sunrise, camp at Hosmer Grove the night before," advises a camper.
What you should know
Backcountry preparedness requirements: Wilderness campsites require proper planning. "Being so secluded, this backcountry campground takes preparation and work to get to. Campers must be fit enough to hike to and carry gear necessary to stay at this site. Water filters are a necessity as the water here is non-potable. Cold weather clothes and gear are also needed as temperatures often drop to sub-40," warns a Paliku camper.
Coastal camping reservations: State park camping along the coast requires advance planning. "Reservations can only be made online," notes a visitor to Waiʻanapanapa State Park Campground.
Wind exposure: Most campsites offer limited protection from winds. "Beware the wind! Because it's open air with no shielding trees, sooo many people evacuated to sleep in cars or resigned to/woke up to collapsed tents because of high winds," cautions a Camp Olowalu visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pack ample water supplies: Most campgrounds have limited or non-potable water. "While there's running water in the bathrooms at the service center, as well as a water fountain to fill up your water bottle there, there's no faucet or anything that you could use to fill up a big water jug," notes a visitor to Kīpahulu Campground.
Choose coastal camping for warmer nights: Higher elevation sites require winter gear even in summer. "The campsites we saw don't really have vegetation between them, but you're here for the location and the beach, and there aren't any other economical overnight options in the area," advises a camper at Waiʻanapanapa.
Consider weekday camping: Weekend camping sees increased local traffic. "We spent the first night stuck next to a HUGE party that didn't quiet down til late at night. Even after moving our van to a spot farther away from them, we realized that there were quite a number of groups partying til late at the site. I bet this wouldn't be the same case on a weekday night," notes a Kīpahulu Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Campervan parking limitations: Many sites prohibit vehicles on the actual camping surface. "The campervan site is just a dirt lot, but it's pretty big and right next to the showers and toilets," explains a visitor to Camp Olowalu.
Limited electrical outlets: Bring alternative charging solutions. "Literally 8 plugs for a bajillion people causing a massive traffic jam in the mornings and evenings. On the side of the ice house only (not even near campgrounds)," reports a Camp Olowalu camper.
Road access challenges: Some higher elevation campgrounds have restricted RV access. "Our van was too old to make it up to Hosmer Grove, so we hitchhiked up and brought a 2 person tent for the night," shares a Hosmer Grove camper.
