Camping areas near Kahului range from sea-level coastal sites with typical highs of 80°F to high-elevation mountain campgrounds at 6,000+ feet where temperatures can drop below freezing after sunset. The volcanic terrain creates diverse camping microclimates within relatively short driving distances. Road accessibility varies significantly, with some campsites requiring vehicles capable of handling steep inclines on the journey to Haleakalā's upper slopes.
What to do
Hike through unique ecosystems: The Hosmer Grove area in Hosmer Grove Campground — Haleakalā National Park offers a nature trail through an unusual forest experiment. "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. It's a little bit of the Pacific Northwest in Hawaii, but with all the Hawaiian plantlife as well" (Ryan W.).
Watch sunrise away from crowds: Skip the summit crowds by finding alternative viewing spots. "In one of the guidebooks it recommended skipping the summit and going to one of the other lookout points to watch the sunrise where it's way less crowded, and I wished we'd listened. It was overcrowded and noisy, and everyone had their phones out for the hour we were there waiting for the sun to rise" (Jordan T.).
Paddleboard or kayak: Water activities are affordable at several coastal campgrounds. "Can take relatively affordable kayaking tours from the campgrounds or rent SUP/kayaks for very affordable rates" (Tracy Jo I.).
Birdwatching at higher elevations: The mix of habitats makes for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "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" (Ryan W.).
What campers like
Beach access with hammock spots: Campers appreciate coastal settings that allow for easy setup. At Kīpahulu Campground — Haleakalā National Park, "The options include open areas to set up next for other people for large groups or along the shore under your own personal hala tree for seclusion and serenity. We were able to grab a spot under a hala tree our second night that was just a walk away from the shore and was so peaceful, and perfect to set up some hammocks" (Bryce K.).
Outdoor shower facilities: The shower amenities at Camp Olowalu are consistently praised for their quality. "The outdoor showers at Camp Olowalu resort are worth the stay in and of themselves. They are works of art, frankly" (Tracy Jo I.).
Stargazing opportunities: The clear night skies provide excellent viewing conditions. "At night, the stargazing is spectacular!" (Michael W.). Another camper noted their campsite had "Little light pollution, great for star gazing" (Esther L.).
Free coffee service: Some campgrounds offer morning amenities that campers appreciate. "Free coffee in the morning!" (Tracy Jo I.).
What you should know
Pet policies vary by location: When looking for dog friendly campgrounds near Kahului, understand that most sites have specific regulations. At Camp Olowalu, "The shared bathrooms are great! Clean, flush toilets, and running water. Showers and dishwashing stations also a plus. Free coffee for early risers. You can see the beach from a few campsites. Like most camping in Hawaii, bring your earplugs for the roosters" (Valerie S.).
Temperature extremes: Pack appropriate clothing for all elevations. "When people say it's cold up there, it's COLD. 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...We were there in June, and by nightfall it got to about 30 degrees (probably dropped even more by midnight)" (Jordan T.).
Wind exposure can damage equipment: Open areas provide less protection from elements. "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" (Tracy Jo I.).
Showers and amenities aren't universal: Some camping areas have very limited facilities. "Note that there's no running water here, so come prepared with water jugs. 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" (Jordan T.).
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for comfort: Choose your exact spot carefully within unmarked camping areas. "The grassy area to camp on is not completely flat, and unfortunately we chose a spot that was on a bit of an incline and struggled to not slide the whole night - so bewarned to find the right spot to camp on" (Jordan T.).
Picnic amenities: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Kahului have communal eating facilities. At Pālāʻau State Park Campground, "Molokai is not only beautiful, but it has the full range of landscapes, from beach to mountains, from desert-like atmosphere to rain forest. The beaches are not only full of beautiful white sand, but lacking crowds of people!" (Alejandro G.).
Early morning noise planning: Wildlife can disrupt sleep patterns for families with children. "The feral roosters at Camp Olowalu begin crowing around 5am" so families should prepare with appropriate noise management strategies.
Water access considerations: Swimming options vary greatly by location. "Water is a little silty here so not the best for swimming or snorkeling" (Miles G.).
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Kahului have minimal RV-specific amenities. At Maui Hawaii County Park One Ali'i Campground, "Is saw a few tents here so it definitely looks like you can camp. There are showers and water available. Tons of places to hang out under the trees or set up hammock" (Miles G.).
Parking lot camping reality: Some designated RV areas lack the ambiance of other camping sections. "We stayed in the camper van area, and while there was plenty of room and a nice picnic table, but it was exactly like camping on the perimeter of a large parking lot. Since all the tent sites are walk-in, those guests frequently return to their vehicles to retrieve belongings, luggage, or drive off to a restaurant at all hours" (Shari G.).
Vehicle limitations on steep roads: Some campgrounds are inaccessible to certain vehicles. "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" (Jordan T.).
Alternative overnight strategies: When official RV sites aren't available, "If you don't have a reservation and really want to see that sunrise, camp at Hosmer Grove the night before - as long as you're not trying to enter the park from 3AM-7AM, you'll be fine" (Jordan T.).
