Are you planning a trip to Wailuku with your RV? We've got you covered. Finding a place to camp in Hawaii with your RV is easier than ever. Each RV campsite offers quick access to one or more of Wailuku's most popular destinations.
This area offers one drive-up campground. Campers are advised that Kīpahulu is wet, remote, and far from most amenities. Come prepared - bring water, food, and a tent. There is no water available, but shared grills, picnic tables and pit-toilets are provided. Permits are not required, but campers must pay the $20 park entry fee. Camping is limited to 3 nights in any 30-day period. The Kīpahulu campground is about 1/8 mile (.2km) south of the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. It overlooks ocean cliffs and is a short walk from ʻOheʻo Gulch. In the evenings, the sound of the ocean waves makes this a peaceful place. The campground has picnic tables, BBQ grills, and pit toilets. No water is available at Kīpahulu Campground; However, drinking water is available at the Kīpahulu Visitor Center restrooms. There are two general stores in the nearby town of Hāna (10 miles[16km] away) where you can purchase water and basic food supplies. Be prepared for rain, harsh sun, and mosquitoes.
When it comes to camping locations in paradise, Waianapanapa State Park remains an unspoiled gem. Low, volcanic cliffs envelop the sparkling black sand lagoon below. Located at the end of Waiʻanapanapa Road off Hana Highway, this park offers a wide range of scenic views, tropical hikes, and tons of unique recreation opportunities. Those looking for solitude and respite from the day-to-day grind of modern life are sure to enjoy this secluded campground.
Waianapanapa is unique in that it’s one of the few places where you can enjoy dark, volcanic sand beaches. Even cooler, throughout the year the various tide pools throughout turn a deep shade of maroon-red. Scientists attribute this to the shrimp colonies that visit throughout the year. However, locals say it’s a due to a haunting from the blood of Popoaleae, a mythical princess who was killed by her husband Chief Kaakea in a cave nearby. We’ll let you decide what you want to believe.
The campsites here are spacious enough to accomodate any tent or van dweller, but RVers aren’t going to find much accomodation here. The campground includes bathrooms, drinking water, an outdoor beach shower, fire pits, and tons of hikes nearby. In addition, the park grants access to shore fishing, snorkelling and scuba destinations nearby. Waianapanapa is also known for it’s natural blow-holes scattered through the park, and its world-class sea-bird watching.
Waianapanapa State Park is massive, featuring over 122 acres of unspoiled volcanic terrain. However, parking is limited and the campground itself is on the small side. If you’re looking to camp here, reservations must be made at least 3 days prior to your check-in date. For HI residents, fees are $12 per night for up to 6 people, and $2 per night for every person thereafter. If you’re not a resident, fees are $18/night, with an addition charge of $3 per additional camper. Additionally, the park also offers Cabins on reservation at $60/night for residents, and $90/night for visitors. That being said, if you’re planning on camping in a cabin be aware there is a 2 day minimum. If you’re the type to procrastinate, definitely take care of your reservations in advance as they are strict about permitting here.
$12 - $90 / night
UKA – The Native Hawaiian Upland Experience
** UKA will be providing Hawaiian legends from owner Kukuna And A LEI WORKSHOP this weekend from 9 to 10 am Friday and Saturday
This is in celebration of our grand opening of UKA.**
THIS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE Fri and Sat night stay..
ALOHA! On slopes of the east Maui region amidst the uplands of a native Hawaiian rainforest is the UKA experience. Nestled and hosted on an eco-friendly, sustainable farm owned by a Native Hawaiian, UKA is the only campsite that is located on lands that have been in a Hawaiian family for hundreds of years.
A quick 15 min drive from the heart of Hana, takes you to the foot of UKA. With a rugged 4-wheel drive entrance, UKA is revealed as you ascend along steep ravines and the glorious mountain and ocean views.
UKA has 3 smaller tented or vehicle tent area in the PIKO (main yard), and 1 separate small tented site tucked amongst the bamboos. The Bamboo Forest site, which has a partial ocean view, and requires you to park away from the car (about 50ft), though the other sites in the main yard vehicles can be parked next to your tent. The camping spots are NOT on fully flat ground.
ONLY TWO PEOPLE PER SITE ARE ALLOWED and you will need to provide your own tent/s or a tent can be rented at arrival or order from site. IF YOU HAVE 4 PEOPLE YOU HAVE TO BOOK TWO CAMPSITES. Please understand that we have limited resources. IF YOU SHOW UP WITH MORE PEOPLE YOU WILL BE CHARGED $75.00 PER ADDITIONAL PERSON, IF THE SPACE IS AVAILABLE.
Keiki (children) under 10 is free but we would like to be informed that there will be extra people in your party. Let us know and get permission before you arrive with the extra party.
Currently we request quiet hours from 10pm – 6am in respect to our other campers.
Being in the realm of the rainforests, typically it rains during the morning and evening. There are times the consistent, heavy rains may set in and campsite will not be accessible. It’s these tropical downpours that keep our ‘aina (land) so green and lush with waterfalls around every turn.
UKA DOES HAVE MOSQUITOS, so come prepared with long garments or repellent. Here in the uplands are the area of wild pigs and cows. You can HEAR them, and might even see one.
You will be entering into a Hawaiian village of my family members, so please be respectful while in the area and as you ascend up the hill.
Being that we live on an island we would like you to know that all disposable refuse that you make or may have, we are asking that you take it with you when you leave to reduce the carbon footprint upon my ancestral land.
The Hana Highway is the most stunning natural phenomena on Maui and a candid moment everywhere you turn. We humbly request that you LET THE LOCALS PASS and PULL ON THE SIDE TO TAKE PICTURES. It will ensure a much blissful encounter.
If you have any requests or concerns just let us know.
Spots to Visit from UKA –
Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu – 4 miles Southeast on route 360
Wailua Falls – 1 ½ miles Southeast on route 360
Hana Town – 6.5 miles Northwest on route 360
Waianapanapa State Park – Home of the Famous Black Sand Beach – 8 miles Northwest on route 360
The Hana Area are filled with cultural stories, traditions and places. It’s legendary highway vistas are beyond magical, but I hope that the essence of UKA will always remain a blessing in your heart.
As We Native Hawaiians say……
A Hui Hou (AH-HOOI-HOOOOUU)
Until we meet again….
Me Kealoha,
KUKUNA
Haleakalā Volcano, on the Hawaiian island of Maui, is a massive shield volcano that rises more than 10,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean, and makes up more than 75% of the island’s land mass. Its name, Haleakalā, is Hawaiian for “House of the Sun,” and is steeped in Hawaiian legend. More modern references attribute it to the spectacular sunrises observed from the rim of the summit crater. In an effort to preserve and protect the volcano’s spectacular summit crater, as well as the Kipahulu Valley rainforest on the volcano’s eastern slope, Haleakalā National Park was established in 1961. The majority of visitors to the park drive the long, winding road to the summit viewpoints and visitor center. The small number of adventurers who descend into the crater can explore an otherworldly landscape of colorful cinder cones, lava flows and other volcanic features.
For those interested in a little primitive camping on the flank of this sleeping giant, the Hosmer Grove Campground provides close access to the summit’s viewing areas and hiking trails. The campground is located partway up the mountain, just 0.5 mile past the park’s entrance station. From Kahului, it’s only about 28 miles, but the winding road makes the drive pretty slow. Hosmer Grove offers 10 campsites in a large, grassy area surrounded by foreign and native woods. Campsites have picnic tables and cooking grills, and vault toilets are available. Campfires are not permitted, but contained camp stoves are allowed. The campground is situated at 7,000 feet above sea level, right in Haleakalā’s “cloud belt,” so it’s often cool and foggy, and overnight temps can plummet below freezing. Free camping is first-come, first-served, with a three-night limit..
Taking in Haleakalā’s summit sunrise show requires making a long, slow, winding drive up the mountain in the blackness of night to reach the viewing areas before sunrise. In efforts to alleviate road and parking congestion at the summit, the national park has implemented a permit requirement to access the viewing areas. These can be obtained up to 60 days in advance from the recreation.gov website. Permits are only required for driving up the mountain between 3am and 7am. Dress warmly, as it is cold on the summit rim. Hikers will find more than 30 miles of trails that journey down into the crater for exploring its many features. There is no shade or water on the crater floor, and temperatures can vary significantly, so pack along plenty of water and sunscreen. Also, due to the soft, sandy nature of the trails, plan on spending twice as much time to hike out as to hike in.
COVID-19 regulations: we are following all local, state and federal regulations regarding COVID-19, and recommend our guests to comply with current mandates and travel requirements to Hawaii and inter-island before making a reservation.
PRE-CHECK IS REQUIRED FOR ALL INTER-ISLAND AND OUT-OF-STATE RESERVATIONS! AS OF OCTOBER 15, 2020, all inter-island and out-of-state visitors must prove the completion of the quarantine requirement or provide validated Safe Travels Hawai’i/DOH quarantine exemption. Documentation must be submitted via email to reservations@campolowalu.com, before 2PM on check-in day. Guests in non-compliance with the pre-check requirement will not be able to enter the campground. CAMP OLOWALU IS NOT A QUARANTINE SITE.
Currently, reservations are open for tent sites, car camping, tentalows (no linens provided) and A-frame cabins. The camp store will remain closed until further notice; morning complimentary coffee is also discontinued.
Camp on one of the 35 sites. Alongside Maui’s Olowalu Beach enjoy our campground amenities.
Tent camping Tentalows Car Camping Cabins
COMMON AMENITIES
Bathrooms: toilet, sink, mirror, hand soap, paper towels & toilet paper
Instant hot water showers
Outdoor dishwashing station
Wifi internet hotspot at check-in area
Trash & recycling stations
Private parking
2 Charging stations
Fire pit
Picnic benches
BBQ grills$24 - $1600 / night
Scout
I have not heard or seen many reviews about this camping place. Can you be more specific about this suika game location?
Scout
I enjoyed my 5 night stay at a tent site here. The grounds and facilities are well maintained and clean. I used my site as a place to sleep and use the showers and bathroom facilities as needed. I was gone by 8 am and back after sunset, going snorkeling, hiking and exploring the island. I can't say what it would be like to lounge around all day at your site. Some sights looked like they may have a lack of shade during the day.
The beach is rocky and not one you'd likely want to spend your day on. For the price and if you like camping (with hot showers, flush toilets and a sinks to wash your dishes) this is a great place to stay!
LegendJake from the Dyrt here! The Uka Hawaiin Native camp is new to the Dyrt and we are happy to have them and the authentic hawaiin experience they provide to campers. Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!
Ranger
Two families, total of five people reserved a cabin. We had great space with one family in the bedroom (2 bunk beds) and the other using the bunk bed in the living space. Unfortunately in the February rain we didn’t use the outdoor living space (covered deck) with picnic table as much as we would have liked but the kitchen had a long folding table that gives room for cooking, eating, and games. A couch or other seating would have been nice. It was very nice to have a full bathroom with hot water we showers. You do need to bring your own kitchen wares, bedding and towels.
The state park is beautiful to explore. Definitely recommend an overnight stay over a day rip. The reservation is two night minimum unless there is a single day available. A few of the cabins stayed empty despite full reservations prior so might be worth keeping an eye out for cancellations!
RangerOur first time here we tent camped. Some of the sites seemed close together but we stayed at the end and had good privacy with the trade off of a long trip to the bathrooms. 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.
Ranger
Im lucky enough that this is my second time staying here! Sad to say that both times there were empty sites even though they were all reserved. There is a nice sheltered area for a wind break for dinner, potable water and pit toilets with hand washing station. Plan for chilly and windy weather in the winter and spring. We stayed here once to save drive time to see the sunrise and the second time after hiking into the crater. Great location for both. The short hike connected to the campground to see all the tree varieties is cool!
Scout
The host was so kind, I enjoyed our stay.
ScoutMichelle could not have been more warm or welcoming, she made space for us at very short notice and could not do enough to look after us. We greatly appreciated the hot showers, towels, freshly brewed chai in the mornings and the beautiful scenery on her property. We cannot recommend Michelle enough!
Scout
I was kicked out for camping in designated area, by maui county parks and recreation as it does clearly state if you look well there is no overnight camping here
ScoutThis was a great place to round out my Maui trip! Everything was great! I would stay here again any day!
ScoutLoved staying in the tent! Michelle is warm and welcoming. Truly felt at home there! Would definitely stay there again!
ScoutThis was an amazingly peaceful location! I enjoyed staying there!
ScoutThis place is a real gem on Maui. Secluded and very relaxed tent. The tent is on a platform that also serves as a little deck area to sit out and enjoy nature. The host was very friendly and helpful. Although rustic (which I enjoyed), I would highly recommend this place even if camping is not your thing. I will definitely stay here again if I ever come back to Maui
TravelerThis is such a naturally beautiful space. It is the perfect blend of picturesque nature and modern living without any of the day to day stress you’d find in other places. I’ve stayed several times and with each visit have been new upgrades and features. That being said this is not for the high maintenance. Jungle rains are a likely visitor. There is dirt - and peace. I love the outdoor shower which offers an unreal jungle shower experience. There was a some privacy, but not complete - be prepared to let your skin hit the air here. This is definitely a space for those who desire the simplicity of natural surroundings. The birds offer a cacophony of songs throughout the day. You will feel like you are in the middle of jungle heaven. The raised platform and tent are a step up, literally - and rain or shine this is a pretty sweet sleep setup. There are real mattresses and box springs and nice bedding- you will sleep unbelievably well, surrounded by so many shades of green. There is a cool gazebo for hanging out and talking story, BBQ grill, occasional bonfires when weather and conditions permit, lots of accessible destinations within range and a vibe so sweet you won’t want to leave. Macadamia nut trees scatter the property as do a wide range of flora and fauna. It’s a slice of heaven off the beaten path and unlike anything else you can find. I love spending time in this hidden gem.
ScoutA unique location. Not for the trendy type, or those not wanting to rub elbows with the tourists, but those wanting privacy in bamboo forest, and macadamia trees for cool shades any time of the day. Beach and/or mountains less than 10 minutes away. Even though the site is ultra private all your shopping needs only minutes away as well. This site will not only make you happy while on Maui, but will leave you with memories of your trip to Hawaii.
ScoutSensational OLD Maui away from the crowded resorts, yet close to the beach and easy to get into town. Peaceful, tropical place to camp with Iao Mountain views. Easy to get to, very close to town and Whole Foods, but it seems like it's miles away. Lots of fruit and avocado trees everywhere, and quick easy hike up to a swimming hole.
LegendThe road to Hana is a Maui Island must-do. And lots of people try to do it in a day -- sure it can be done, but why would you want to? You’ll see so much and won’t take any of it in. So, slow down, take a minute between stops on your itinerary and stay a night or three in Wai’anapapa State Park. We stayed 3 nights and wished we'd had 1 more.
This park is known for its amazing black sand beach and offers visitors a 4-hour permit to experience the beach, the cove and coastal trail through rugged a’a lava fields. However, if you camp there your permit is good for the whole day and into the next to make the most of your visit. The park closes at sunset for all the other visitors, but campers can come and go and feel like you have the place all to yourself at sunrise just before the early permit holders arrive.
The current camping area isn’t much more than a big patch of grass with trees around the perimeter. Things might open up again once the pandemic regulations subside. A small area, perhaps 50 yards by 20 defines the camper van camping area and there are only 6 loosely defined sites. The bathrooms old and well used, showers are the outside beach variety with cold water and spectators. Potable water is available as well as a few Coke machines.
We had a problem charging up our electronics and assumed that we might find electricity at the state park just like back on the mainland -- we were wrong. There wasn’t an outlet to be found either in the park or even in the beach park down in Hana – this one got our hopes up because they have outlets which weren’t hot. So bring your solar panels! Plan ahead, or go to the coffee shop five miles back up the road.
The road to the SP has at least 3 fruit stands and you’ll find another dozen on your way into Hana town. There is a small grocer as well as a handful of good restaurants associated with the local inns or guest houses. Gas is also easy to find in town as well as a small hospital. There is also a spouting hole in the lava which erupts with the incoming waves very close to the main beach -- this is fun for the whole family. Snorkeling is pretty good in the cove, especially on calmer days. Body surfing is fun when it’s less calm as this beach has a black sand break rather than reef.
Hiking in the park is totally worth it. The trail winds along the coastline high above the water, allowing amazing views of the lava structures, arches, tubes, coves and caves that the sea has shaped. The trail is strenuous and footing can be tricky in places, but the views, especially on a south eastern swell are amazing. Give yourself some time to check it out.
LegendThe outdoor showers at Camp Olowalu resort are worth the stay in and of themselves. They are works of art, frankly. The tent sites are amazing, though perhaps spaced a little close together between the main camp and the shoreline, but with beach access so close, and the surrounding environment so beautiful it’s easy to forget. The glamping tents, complete with fresh pineapple upon arrival, are something to behold.
However, 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. We found it to be noisy and distracting.
The location for the camp is beautiful, and it is close to the busy road on the west side of Maui. Between 12am and 5am were the only hours that things seemed to die down– this isn’t the campground’s fault of course, just be aware of this. Then, about 5am, the feral roosters chime in to have their say, and the traffic begins. Long story short...bring earplugs!
Right across the main road you’ll find a huge fruit stand market with lots of options, and within a few short miles there are dozens of restaurant options, and grocery stores. This part of the island is heavily residential so there are many services which cater to the locals. The camp store has a few touristy items for sale, ice, sunscreen, firewood and marshmallows in case you forget these.
LegendThe 6 sites in the only developed camping area in the park offer a great place to stage your morning sunrise experience in Haleakala. They are popular and very inexpensive($5 per night). The campsites are clustered into a small lawn area on a gently sloping hillside. While each tent platform is level, the parking lot definitely is not. So, if you plan to bring a camping vehicle, van, platform tent truck, or small camper, get there early to grab the most level spots (there are 2). And if your tent platform folds out to the side of the truck- please don’t take up two parking spots, figure it out so that others can also enjoy a good night’s sleep. Yes, this happened to us– ugggh!
Night time temperatures can be in the 30’s and 40’s and we found that the bedding provided in our rental camper was not enough. Fortunately, we brought along our down sleeping bag and puffy jackets(they were definitely needed during January), but could be needed at any time of year as the campground is at 6K above sea level. Also, temperatures at the summit for sunrise and sunset are cold- at any time of year. We wore multiple layers, hats, gloves, and winter coats and still froze up at the summit. The wind was gusting over 30 knots, and the wind chill was in the teens. So, plan ahead! The campground has a covered picnic area, as well as 2 pit toilets with a handwashing sink outside. There are also water spigots in the campground which have potable water.
One thing we didn’t know is that if you have a reservation for Hosmer Grove you don’t need a reservation for sunrise, because you are already in the park and past the entrance station. It’s still a long drive (around 30 minutes), up to the summit but it’s a bigger head start than most people who are coming from hotels and such farther away. But the rising and setting of the sun shouldn’t be the only thing you hope to experience while in this amazing park. Hiking and backpacking through the crater are spectacular. Some of the most unique and long range views we’ve ever experienced!
There are a few neighborhood markets nearby, gas station, restaurants and a farmer’s market, but the larger grocery stores are located down the mountain in Kahului. There are no eateries or shops, other than the summit gift shop(which offers very limited snacks) in the park so come prepared.
Ranger
Incredible views with miles and miles of beautiful beach. Literally only saw 2 other people while I was there.
Ranger
While in HI, for a travel job we got to experience this beautiful island. 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! It is the most laidback of all of the islands, and probably has the most Hawaiians still living there. The people are so nice and friendly. There is so much history on such a small island. If you want a truly relaxing vacation, this is the spot!
GuideThere is no park entrance fee but there is a cost to some. The views here are amazing and Molokai is a very uninhabited island, so this place is very peaceful.
ScoutStaying in the tentalows for a week and I do not want to go! The royal palm entrance is a beautiful indicator of what’s ahead at camp Olowalu! Fully enclosed yurt like cabins with a sink, mirror, towels, linens, hooks, lights, outdoor shower, and keyed entry CLEAN bathrooms near every tentalow. Across the path is the beach and across the street is Olowalu general store with ono poke, great gifts, fresh pineapple market, butterfly farm, etc. gorgeous mature mango trees and bamboo. The most exquisite campground I’ve ever stayed at.
RangerThis is the only place I will stay when I come back to Maui. Tentalos are a far cry from roughing it, but they're also awesome. Much cheaper than a hotel. Well-kept grounds are similar to a city park. Close access to the beach and water activities. You can rent surfboards, paddle boards, kayaks. Saw whales surfacing at sundown.
Glamp it up.
LegendWe were lucky enough to get a cabin for one night at Waiʻanapanapa State Park, allowing us to spend more time hiking at this end of the island without worrying about driving back to the other side the same day. The black sand beach is lovely, but when we went in February, it was a bit too dangerous to enter the ocean. There are definitely rocks all around, and it's the side of Maui where the waves are larger, so be careful. The high surf did let us see the blowhole in action - great fun to watch the wind carry the sea spray for yards into the park.
Campground: 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, so that is neither here not there. Would definitely recommend staying at the park if you'd like to spend more time in this corner of the island.
Cabins: We stayed in a cabin, which are usually two-night minimum, but we planned our trip around a 1-night only availability to get around this rule (~$100/night). Our cabin (#9), didn't have a direct ocean view, but it did sit a bit above the tree line and nevertheless had a great view. It was also intermittently pouring, so a cabin was ideal for our February stay. For tourists, there are some hurdles to booking the cabins (you need to bring your own sheets, towels and soaps, which many folks don't fly to the island with). The cabins have 3 sets of bunks (4 beds total in a bedroom and 2 beds in the living room). We slept in the living room as the mattress condition was better and the mosquito nets on the windows in that room didn't have holes. The cabin has water and electricity, but no AC, so we just slept with the windows open and it was comfortable. No window coverings. To avoid ripping the mattress covers or scratching the floors, there is no moving the mattresses or the beds. There was a bit of a smell (maybe the drain, maybe oxidizing steel sink and hotplate) when we arrived, so I did a thorough clean and blocked the drain with a towel. The cabin will be pretty much the way the last guests left it so I'm sure conditions will vary - our bathroom and floors were clean for cabin conditions. No complaints there. The bathroom has a shower, sink and toilet. the kitchen has a fridge/freezer, microwave, hotplate?, and sink. There is a table and 4 folding chairs inside and a built-in picnic table on the porch, and a grill for each cabin.
That all may not sound luxurious, but we really enjoyed our night here! The porch was large and each porch is designed to face away from other porches and towards the view. It was beautiful watching the sky change at sunset and sunrise. Staying here was much more economical than our other options in Hana. Most importantly, staying over night removed the time stress of doing the road to Hana. We were able to stop, hike, picnic, etc. as often as we wanted on the way out without worrying about a time crunch. We checked out the town of Hana after checking into our cabin and had a relaxed meal across the street from the entrance. We were able to add a 3-hour hike in Haleakala national park (Pipiwei Trail - recommend!) the following day and since that was a hot day, it was nice to start before the sun was too high and the parking lot was too full.
Scouta beautiful campground unfortunately the park is only open to day trippers at the moment. I was keen on hiking into the park and packing it all in with me and the park rangers are serious about giving the land some time to rehab and relax until they again feel comfortable with thru hikers and campers
ScoutYou would not think about cold weather gear when camping on Maui, but we used it here. It was cold and wet both nights. We were prepared and had a great time; camping here made it much easier to drive up for the sunrises and sunsets each day.
We will camp here again!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near Wailuku, HI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Wailuku, HI is Kīpahulu Campground — Haleakalā National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near Wailuku, HI?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 RV camping locations near Wailuku, HI, with real photos and reviews from campers.