Looking to spend as much time as possible amidst Hawaii’s natural beauty? Well, there’s no better way than on a camping trip. In Maui, you can camp in the mountain, on the beach or in trendy, tentalows! Here’s our guide to help you plan your Maui camping trip.

Camping in Maui? Here’s What you Need to Know! 

Campgrounds are divided into five types including federal, county, state, private, or unofficial. With different fees for each, we’ll guide you through the best places with the most affordable prices!

Dont forget that at some spots a permit or reservation is requied. If your site requires a permit, view the details on obtaining your permit here.

Camp Sites

Not sure where to camp? Here are some of our favorite camp sites in Maui. 

1. Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area

Type: State
Cost:

• Cabins: $100 nonresidents, $70 residents
• Tent: Camping $30 nonresidents, $20 residents

Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (check-in time is 3 pm)
Permit Required? YES

For a true mountainous camping experience, check out the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area. Here, you’ll be in Upcountry Maui, which is an area of higher elevation that surrounds Haleakala National Park. At this site, you’ll camp 6,200 ft above sea level. If you plan on camping at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, it’s important to note that a 4-wheel drive vehicle is required — no other vehicles are allowed. Be sure to wear bright colors as this campsite is a popular spot for hunting. You’ll also want to pack a tent and bring plenty of drinking water. This spot has bathrooms, but other than that facilities are limited. 

2. Waianapanapa State Park

Type: State
Cost:

• Cabins: $100 nonresidents, $70 residents (2 night minimum stay required)
• Camping: $30 nonresidents, $20 residents
• Camper Vans: $20 nonresidents, $12 residents

Permit Required? YES

Waianapanapa State Park, Maui

In Hawaii, not only can you camp on the beach — you can camp on a black sand beach. At Waianapanapa State Park — one of the most popular spots on the Road to Hana — you can camp in a truly unique environment. Imagine waking up on black sand to views of turquoise waters and behind you is lush, green forest. Nearby you’ll have access to hiking trails, tide pools and lava tube caves.

3. Hosmer Grove

Type: Federal
Address: Haleakala National Park, 30076-30136 State Hwy 378, Kula, HI
Cost:

• $5 for a maximum of 3 days

Permit Required? NO, first-come, first-serve (reservations are required)

Located within Haleakala National Park, Hosmer Grove campsite sits at 7,000 feet about sea level. Known as an ideal location for watching sunrise and sunset, Haleakala also has multiple hiking trails. In fact, a self-guided nature trail starts and ends at Hosmer Grove. This site has picnic tables, pit toilets, barbecue grills, and drinkable water available, however be sure to pack your own food. Hosmer Grove camping is first-come, first-serve, so arrive early to secure your spot! 

4. Kipahulu Campground (currently closed)

Type: Federal
Address: 148A Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713
Cost:

• $15 for 3-day pass for each vehicle
• Free camping

Permit Required? NO, first-come, first-serve

Kipahulu Campground is the second car-accessible campsite in Haleakala National Park. Perfect for travelers who don’t want to backpack but still want to experience the natural beauty of Haleakala. At Kipahulu Campground, you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of waves crashing on shore and wake up to scenic coastal cliffs.  This site has picnic tables, BBQ grills, and pit toilets, but not water or food, so be sure to pack your own. Nearby you can visit Seven Sacred Pools — a popular spot on the Road to Hana. 

5. Camp Olowalu

Type: Private
Cost:

• Cabins $1,500/night, sleeps six
• Tentalows $140/night/2 adults, $195/night/4 adults
• Beachside site and car camping $24/night/person (tent not included)

Permit Required? NO, but reservations ARE required

Camp Olowalu is one of the cleanest and most comfortable camping areas in Maui! You have the option of renting a beachside campsite, car camping, staying in a tentalow, or cabin. It’s nearby Lahaina’s Front Street otherwise known as the “walkable downtown” of Maui with fishermen-themed restaurants and shops. You can also hike to see the Olowalu Petroglyphs or rent equipment from the campsite for snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking.

Where to Rent Gear

Maui Camping Company

If you’re planning to camp out of your car and you’re looking for some extra supplies head to Maui Camping Company.

They have three camping kits with items like sleeping bags and pillows, here are the options:

• Minimalist: $150 1-3 days, $200 week
• Not Too Shabby: $175 1-3 days, $250 week
• Shameless Glamper: $200 1-3 days, $300 week

Learn more about what’s included here. 

Aloha Outdoors

• Camper van: $119/ sleeps two

Aloha Outdoors’ camper vans come packed with everything you’ll need for your camping excursion like an air mattress, linens, tent, coffee press, food prep station and burner, pots and pans, first aid kit, and an outdoor table, just to name a few. For a complete list of supplies and to rent a camper van, visit Aloha Outdoors here.

Camping in Maui is the perfect way to experience the island’s landscape and beautiful features. It is suitable for travelers looking for an affordable, yet immersive outdoor experience.

RELATED: Must-See Scenic Spots in Maui, Haleakalā Sunrise & Sunset: Everything You Need To Know

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