Top Maui Camping Sites: A Comprehensive Guide

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If you’re heading to Maui and looking to spend some extra time in nature, there are plenty of ways to camp on Maui (glamorous+camping = glamping), depending on your style.

Whether you’re looking to save money, wake up on the beach, take an epic backpacking trip, or escape the crowds, we’ll help you find the right place for your Maui camping trip!

All Maui camping requires a permit, reservation, or both, and it can be challenging to determine exactly what you need and where you can legally camp.

There are only a few well-established private campgrounds, so chances are you’ll be booking through a county, state, or National Park website. In other words, all the information you need probably won’t be on one user-friendly page. That’s where we come in!

Plan the rest of your Maui camping trip with these articles:
Check out our full Maui Travel Guide to get a lay of the land and find some of our best resources.
Find the best rental car to suit your needs with our rental car recommendations.
Look at our favorite things to do on Maui to fill your time.

Maui Camping at a Glance

Map of Maui Camping Spots

Maui Camping FAQ

We’ve done the dirty work for you and have answers to all your burning questions.

If you’re interested in camping on any of the other islands, we have an article for that:
Big Island Camping
Oahu Camping
Kauai Camping

Can you camp on any beach and anywhere on the island?

No, you cannot set up camp anywhere on the island. Camping is limited to designated areas with the appropriate permits and/or reservations. 

Can you sleep in your car on Maui?

You can sleep in camping vehicles on Maui, not just any car, and not at every campground. Most campgrounds do not accommodate car camping, but a few allow camper vans, RVs, trailers, or similar vehicle camping.

Check the Cabin Camping section of this article to learn more about the sites that allow vehicle camping.

Is there free camping on Maui?

Not exactly. Technically, Holua and Paliku are free to camp in Haleakala National Park, but you must make a reservation online in advance, which costs $8-9 regardless of the length of your reservation. You’ll also need a Haleakala National Park Pass, which is valid for three days and costs $15 per person or $30 per vehicle. 

How much does it cost to camp on Maui?

Depending on your chosen site, tent camping costs between $5 and $100 per night for non-residents. In the Permits and Reservations section, we discuss the cost of staying at county and state campgrounds. Private campsites and cabins will typically cost more, starting around $35 per night for tent camping. 

The Maui camping site itself may not be the only cost to consider. If you plan to camp in Haleakala National Park (read our Maui Volcanoes article for details!) or Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, an annual National Park pass, or the America the Beautiful Pass may be worth it.

If you’re a National Park enthusiast and already have one of these passes, you won’t need to get a pass for Haleakala or Volcanoes NP. Learn more about those passes here.

On a budget? Compare the cost of camping with a typical Hawaii vacation for a family. Learn how to get a cheap ticket to Hawaii and find affordable things to do on Maui.

Is camping on Maui safe?

Yes, while the property crime rate in Hawaii is close to the national average, the violent crime rate is far lower. 

Maui has come under a lot of stress due to the Lahaina Fire, but it was never immune to the housing crisis and homelessness that the country faces. Visitors will find folks living out of their cars along the roads and beaches that line some highways. Some are employed without housing, while others may suffer from mental health conditions or drug addiction.

Treat everyone you encounter with respect and aloha, and you’re sure to be met with the same. Keeping your vehicle locked and valuables on you, being aware of your surroundings, and sticking to legal campsites will help ensure a safe vacation.

Can you have campfires on the beach?

No, campfires are not permitted on beaches. While you’re likely to see someone breaking the rules, don’t follow their example because it is illegal and dangerous.

Not only can it cause widespread fires, but it can also injure beachgoers. Respect the ‘aina (land), others, and your wallet (no one wants the fines associated with violations) by keeping the fire in the grill, not on the beach.

What is Rapid ‘Ohi’a Death (ROD)?

The ‘Ohi’a is the most abundant native tree species on the Hawaiian islands, and it’s dying at an incredible rate due to a fungal disease called Ceratocystis. Infected trees die within days or weeks, and the state of Hawaii is working hard to stop the spread and protect the ‘Ohi’a.

It has affected all districts in Hawaii, but it is especially important to be aware of it if you plan to camp on Kauai or the Big Island. To prevent the spread to other areas and islands, disinfect all your gear (including hiking equipment) with 70% alcohol.

Here are two great resources for learning more:
National Park Service
College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources

Maui Camping Permits and Reservations

Maui has two state-run campgrounds: Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area and Wai’anapanapa State Park. Both sites have tent and cabin camping, and Wai’anapanapa also allows campervans. Reservations can be made 90 days in advance via the Division of State Parks website. 

The island of Maui has one county-run campground, Papalaua Wayside Beach Park, which only accepts reservations the old-school way: by mail or in person.

Payments must be made in cash or money order. Permits are given on a first-come, first-served basis, and you can call ahead to check for availability (808) 270-7389. The reservation office is located at 700 Halia Nakoa St STE 2, Wailuku.

There are several campgrounds inside Haleakala National Park, which require a two-step process. Reservations need to be made online for the specific campsite you want to stay at, and you’ll need a National Park Pass to enter the park.

Campsites: Legal Maui Camping Locations

Maui State Campsites

Tent camping at Maui’s state-run campgrounds costs $30 per campsite per night for non-residents for up to 10 campers. The price for Hawaii residents is $20 per night. Camping reservations can be made online 90 days in advance by creating a free eHawaii.gov account. The maximum length of stay is five consecutive nights.

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area
If you’re tired of warm, beachy weather, head up to 6,200 feet in elevation with your 4WD vehicle for camping off the slopes of Haleakala. Reservations are simple and can be made online here for tent camping only. There are no entry or parking fees as you’re not entering Haleakala National Park. 

4WD is required, and you’ll want to prepare in several other ways. Due to the elevation, temperatures can get below freezing in the winter, and you will face cold nighttime temperatures year-round.

Be aware that hunting is legal in this area, so hikers should wear bright colors for safety.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park
This is one beautiful campground you won’t have to work hard for! You’ll have easy access to the famous Black Sand Beach on the way to Hana and a network of coastal trails.  In addition to the beach and hiking, you’ll also find a lava tube, blowhole, freshwater caves, and sea arches. Camp amenities include fire pits, picnic tables, outdoor showers, and drinking water.

There are few places to stay in Hana, so this is an excellent option if you plan to visit the Road to Hana in more than one day.

Booking a campsite for just $30 per night gives you access to Wai’anapanapa State Park for your entire permit period. Those visiting for the day can only book a maximum of 2-time slots and will pay both entrance and parking fees.

Reserve your campsite here (via Wiki Permits) for up to 10 campers and five nights and you’re all set; it’s almost too good to be true! If, at this point, you’ve found yourself reading in the tone of a ‘90s infomercial, you can rest assured that no wacky products will be shipped to you for five easy payments of $19.95. We know a good deal when we see one.

Wai’anapanapa’s Black Sand Beach made our list of the Best Beaches on Maui for good reason. If you’re heading to Wai’anapanapa, make sure to read our Road to Hana Guide! You will find the Best Maui Waterfalls along the Road to Hana.

Visiting Maui between December and March?
Maui is the best Hawaiian Island for whale watching.
Get everything you need to know for whale season with our guide to whale watching on Maui.
The best way to see whales is on a boat tour, book one of the best here.

Maui County Campsites

Maui County runs just one campground on the island of Maui (the other campgrounds are on Molokai).

Papalaua Wayside Beach Park
This beachfront campground is located on West Maui, 25 minutes south of Ka’anapali and 30 minutes north of Wailea.

This is the most expensive campground on this list, but you can save some money if you have kids in the group. Campsites cost $50 per adult and $6 per minor per night on Monday and Thursday (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday) and $100 per adult and $12 per minor per night Friday through Sunday for non-residents. Hawaii residents pay just a tenth of the cost at $5 and $10 per adult and $3 and $6 per minor per night respectively.

Campsites can be reserved for up to 6 campers for a maximum of 4 nights. The campground is closed for maintenance on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For reservations, call (808) 270-4313. Camping fees must be paid in cash or money order only.

Click here for more information on the camp.

Papalaua is just a short drive from Ma’alaea Harbor and Olowalu Beach in either direction. Check out our favorite tours leaving from the area:
Kayak, Snorkel, & Whale Tour at Olowalu Reef
Molokini Crater Snorkel & Sail from Ma’alaea Harbor (Save 10%!)
Sail with the Whales from Ma’alaea Harbor, Maui

Camping in Haleakala National Park

Conditions in Haleakala National Park can change quickly, closing access to campgrounds, the summit, or the park altogether. Before booking any of these sites, check that the campground is open, and it’s not a bad idea to have a plan B ready.

All four campsites within Haleakala National Park require a National Park Pass in addition to your reservation. You can get the pass only for your entry dates or an annual or America the Beautiful pass. Compare passes and find the right one for you.

Every campground requires an online reservation in advance. You can make reservations directly by creating a free account on recreation.gov. You can find an overview of all campgrounds here. All campgrounds have a maximum stay of 3 nights within a 30-day period, and you must carry a printed copy of your reservation on you.

Drive-up

Both drive-up campgrounds have pit toilets and water nearby. Reservations open 30 days in advance. One campsite reservation allows 6 campers and 2 tents.

Hosmer Grove
Hosmer Grove is in the cloud belt at 7,000 feet elevation on the northern slopes of Haleakala. Daytime high temperatures are between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and overnight temperatures can get near freezing, so be sure to pack accordingly.

Each campsite has a designated parking spot, picnic table, grill, and access to potable water. When you reserve a campsite here, you automatically get a Haleakala sunrise reservation for the morning after camping!

Cost: $5 per night
Total campsites: 6
Hosmer Grove reservation page

If you don’t make it to Hosmer Grove, you still have options. Decide whether to visit Haleakala for sunrise or sunset, and consider booking a sunrise tour so you don’t have to do the driving

Kipahulu
Though it’s located inside Haleakala National Park, it sure doesn’t feel like it! This sea level campground sits on a beautiful oceanfront setting, though there is no beach access and entering the stream is prohibited. 

From the campground, you’ll be a short walk away from both the Pipiwai Trail and the Pools of Oheo. Here there are 5 sites that can be reserved right by the water and 15 that you can pull your car right up to on the grass.

Unlike other Haleakala spots, you’ll get pleasant weather, though you should be prepared for rain, harsh sun, and mosquitos. Come prepared with a natural mosquito repellent and plenty of water as there is no water or showers here. There is also no electricity, but who needs it when you get absolutely stellar sunrises?

Cost: $8 per night + park entry
Total campsites: 20, 15 drive-up, 5 walk-up
Kipahulu reservation page

Looking to spend even more time in nature? You’ll love these:
9 Best Maui Waterfalls: On the Road to Hana and Beyond
3 Easy Maui Hikes (plus a bonus historic walk)
The 11 Best Snorkeling Spots on Maui (+7 crucial tips)

Hike-in

The hike-in sites in Haleakala National Park are between a 3.7- and 10.4-mile hike from the parking area. Reservations open six months in advance and must be made online. One individual campsite reservation allows 5 campers and 2 tents, and one group campsite is available at each campground, which allows 10 campers and 4 tents. Both of these campgrounds also have cabins available; read more about booking them in the Maui Cabin Camping section below.

Pack warm clothes and be prepared to be chilly! Expect rain all year, with high temperatures reaching between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and nighttime lows between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. These campgrounds only have access to non-potable water, so plan accordingly. Learn more about safety and preparation for these hikes and campgrounds here.

Cost: $8-9 reservation fee, nightly rate is free + park entry
Total campsites: 5 campsites at each campground
Paliku and Holua reservation page

Paliku
The Paliku Campground is at 6,380ft elevation on the eastern side of the volcano at the base of a rainforest cliff. The topography makes this site especially lush and prone to more rain. It can be reached by one of two trails.

Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands Trail) 9.3 miles to the campsite one way
Halemauʻu Trail 10.4 miles to the campsite one way

Holua
The Holua Campground has plenty of day hikes nearby, and the landscape captures lava flows. It sits at 6,940ft elevation with shorter hikes to reach your destination. Using the same two trails, here’s what you have in store:

Halemau’u Trail 3.7 miles to the campsite one way
Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead 7.4 miles to the campsite one way

Private Campgrounds on Maui, Maui Cabin Camping, Glamping, and Vehicle Sites

Camp Olowalu (Private campground)
Camp Olowalu has it all. Situated off of Honoapiilani Highway at one of the best snorkel spots in West Maui, you can reserve everything from a tent campsite to 6 cabins for a large group. All sites have access to bathrooms, hot water showers, BBQ grills, picnic benches, a fire pit, and parking. Hawaii residents get 10% off any campsite.

Tent or Car Camping
– 35 tent sites available
– 6 campers per site
– $32 per adult per night + tax
– Learn more

Tentalows
– $160 per night + tax for a single tentalow (2 adults)
– $210 per night +tax for a family tentalow (4 adults)
– Comes with twin beds & linens, private showers, a cooler, chairs and more
– Learn more

Cabins
– Made for groups, this reservation includes all 6 cabins for up to 36 guests.
– $1,800 per night + tax with a discounted rate for extended stays
– 2 night minimum stay
– Access to the mess hall, kitchen, and additional amenities such as coin operated washer and dryer
– Learn more

Ke‘anae Uka (Private campground)
Previously owned by the YMCA, Kea’anae Uka is gradually opening back up for reservations, starting with its campervan sites. Check its website for updates on its cabins and cottages. 

It is located on east Maui about halfway to Hana near Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread! There are 5 spots available with vehicle camping starting at $116 per night. Book your spot here.

We have some articles that will help you along the Road to Hana:
The Ultimate Guide to the Road to Hana
Road to Hana Etiquette: 7 Tips for First-Time Visitors
5 Routes for the Road to Hana: Choose Your Road to Hana Adventure
If you’re not heading on the Road to Hana for camping, decide if the drive is worth it and consider taking a tour.

Kipahulu Vehicle Camping (Haleakala National Park)
Get everything you would from this seaside campsite, but do it in your vehicle! There are 15 sites here that allow campervans and pop-up campers with a regular camping reservation. These spots cost $8 per night + National Park entry. Learn more and book a campsite here.

Haleakala National Park Cabins: Paliku, Holua, & Kapalaoa
Each site has one cabin, each with 12 padded bunks and 18 lockers. Paliku and Holua have tent campsites, but Kapalaoa is a cabin only. Reservations cost $75 per night, open 6 months in advance, and book up quickly! Book a cabin here.

These wilderness cabins do not have electricity, bedding, or potable water, and you will still experience the elements, so go just as prepared as if you were tent camping. Each cabin has a wood-burning and propane stove. Read more about preparing for your cabin stay here.

The Paliku Campground
– 6,380ft elevation
– Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail 9.3 miles to the cabin one-way
– Halemauʻu Trail 10.4 miles to the cabin one way

The Holua Campground
– 6,940ft elevation
– Halemau’u Trail 3.7 miles to the cabin one-way
– Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead 7.4 miles to the cabin one-way

Kapalaoa Cabin Only
– 7,250ft elevation
– Keonehe’ehe’e (Sliding Sands) Trail 5.6 miles to the cabin one-way
– Halemau’u Trail 7.2 mile hike to the cabin one-way

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area (County-run)
One cabin is available to book in the Polipoli Spring SRA for up to 8 guests and a maximum of 5 consecutive nights. It has no electricity, kitchen, or linen and cannot be reserved online. 

To reserve the cabin, call (808) 984-8109 or go to the Maui State Parks office at 54 S. High Street #101, Wailuku (this is also where you’ll pick up the keys for the cabin). Reservations cost $100 per night for non-residents or $70 per night for Hawaii residents and must be made at least 7 days in advance.

This cabin is located near the camping area at 6,200 feet in elevation and requires 4WD to access, but there are no additional entry or parking fees.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park (State-run)

There are several cabins available that can be reserved online for up to 6 guests per cabin. These cabins have electricity and a kitchen but no linen. The kitchens come complete with hotplates, microwaves, and refrigerators. Reservations cost $100 per night for non-residents or $70 per night for Hawaii residents.

Camper vehicle camping is also available here for up to 6 campers in a vehicle that is intended (built or modified) for camping. This means you cannot camp in a standard rental car, click here for examples of authorized vs unauthorized vehicles. Reservations cost $30 for non-residents or $20 for Hawaii residents.

Camping at Wai’anapanapa State Park is limited to 5 consecutive nights in a 30-day period. Reservations can be made online here.