How much does camping cost at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Camping fees at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) range from $8-$20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) first-come first-served or reservation?

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) before I book?

Yes! Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) has 11 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) is open January 1 to December 31.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Fire policies at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit): No open fires permitted. Visitors must use portable stoves for cooking.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) have?

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Pets are not allowed at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

Popular activities at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

4.29

275 reviews

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazingGreat Hiking

Featured in:Camping Near Haleakala National Park#3

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,940 ft

Price

$8 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

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Only 10 sites — this campground fills fast. Set up a free alert.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,940 ft

Price

$8 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

$8.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping Use Fee: $20 per night with a 3 night maximum over a 30-day period.

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$20.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

808-572-4487hale_interpretation@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.29

Satisfactory

Based on 275 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

location

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty and remote experience of Haleakalā's wilderness campsites. While many appreciate the solitude and breathtaking landscapes, complaints center around the reservation system, unclear site markings, and basic facilities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768

Nearby places

Makawao: Approx. 10 miles

Kahului: Approx. 22 miles, about 45 minutes by car.

Nearby supplies

Nearest supplies are in Makawao and Kahului, approximately 10 and 22 miles away. Supplies include fuel, groceries, and camping essentials.

Driving directionsFrom Kahului, take Hana Highway (SR36) and travel 2.0 miles toward Hana. Turn right onto Haleakalā Highway (SR37) and travel 7.8 miles. Turn left onto State Highway 377 and travel 6 miles. Turn left onto Crater Road (large brown wooden Haleakalā NP sign mounted in median) and travel 1.2 miles. Continue on Crater Road for 9.9 miles to the park boundary/entrance station. The summit of Haleakalā (elevation 10,023 ft) is 11 miles further, about a 30-minute drive beyond the entrance station.

Access is limited to trails and involves a strenuous hike. Visitors should prepare for varying conditions such as steep terrain including loose cinders and gravel. While the roads leading to the visitor center are paved, hiking trails within the park can be challenging and require sturdy equipment.

Best Time to Camp at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Summer brings the most stable conditions: daytime highs around 50-70°F, nights dropping to 35-50°F. Skies stay clearer and trails dry out, making long hikes and stargazing more reliable. Weather shifts fast at this elevation. Fog can roll in without warning, and winds occasionally hit 80 mph. Winter brings more rain and mud, especially at Palikū where the rainforest stays perpetually lush. Pack for extremes regardless of forecast. The wilderness permit system limits overnight numbers even during peak summer visitation.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 20% in HI

Summer brings most stable conditions, clearer skies and drier trails for hiking and stargazing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 to December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: Backcountry users must plan to enter the park entrance for their stay no earlier than 7 am unless they have also obtained a sunrise reservation granting access to the park between 3 and 7 am. NO Fires. Open fires or gathering firewood is NOT allowed.

About Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Two wilderness campsites sit deep within Haleakalā's volcanic crater, accessible only by foot. Hōlua perches at 6,940 feet near Ko'olau Gap, while Palikū sits at 6,380 feet against a rainforest cliff. Both require wilderness tent permits ($8-20/night) and accommodate up to two tents and five people per designated site, with one group site available at each location.

The Haleakalā wilderness tent sites are primitive backcountry camping areas that require substantial physical effort to access. They are designed for experienced campers and backpackers.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most stable conditions: daytime highs around 50-70°F, nights dropping to 35-50°F. Skies stay clearer and trails dry out, making long hikes and stargazing more reliable. Weather shifts fast at this elevation. Fog can roll in without warning, and winds occasionally hit 80 mph. Winter brings more rain and mud, especially at Palikū where the rainforest stays perpetually lush. Pack for extremes regardless of forecast. The wilderness permit system limits overnight numbers even during peak summer visitation.

ElevationYour journey takes you into the clouds, with Hōlua resting at an impressive 6,940 feet and Palikū slightly lower at 6,380 feet above the Pacific. At these elevations, the air grows thin and weather becomes a wild card, transforming from tropical to near-alpine conditions without warning. Visitors should prepare their bodies and gear for this high-altitude adventure where every breath reminds you of your elevation and every vista rewards your effort.

Natural Features and SceneryThe crater spans seven miles across, studded with rainbow-colored cinder cones and ancient lava flows. Hōlua occupies the stark volcanic desert terrain where rust and ochre cones dominate the landscape. Palikū sits where the barren crater floor abruptly meets lush cloud forest, creating a dramatic transition zone. The elevation drop from the 9,780-foot rim to these campsites creates distinct microclimates within miles. Rare silversword plants cling to volcanic slopes, and Nēnē. Hawaii's endemic goose. Call across the terrain. When clouds clear, the volcanic amphitheater reveals exceptional stargazing with zero light pollution.

Geological RegionHaleakalā National Park encompasses one of Earth's most accessible volcanic wonders—a massive shield volcano whose summit crater spans seven miles across. This geological masterpiece showcases millions of years of volcanic artistry, from rainbow-hued cinder cones to ancient lava flows frozen in time. The dramatic elevation range from 9,780 feet at the rim to 6,380 feet within the crater creates distinct microclimates, where barren volcanic deserts give way to lush rainforests in a stunning display of nature's adaptability.

Scenic ViewsBoth Hōlua and Palikū campsites provide expansive views of volcanic terrain and sweeping valleys. Visitors have described sunrises as 'stunning' and 'unforgettable,' highlighting the unique lighting and atmospheric conditions.

Lodging & AccommodationsOnly wilderness tent sites are available. Nearby wilderness cabins exist but are managed under separate permits.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are offered directly at the campsites.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Anytime after 7 AM with reservation.

Check-out

Before 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 3 consecutive nights per visit and 3 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Individual sites accommodate up to 5 people and 2 tents
group sites accommodate up to 10 people and 4 tents.

Groups

Group sites accommodate up to 10 people and 4 tents, suitable for small groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutEach campground contains four individual tent sites plus one group site (up to four tents, ten people). Sites cluster near the wilderness cabins but have no access to cabin facilities. Limited vegetation means minimal privacy between tents. Space constraints may require tents to sit close together. Both locations have vault toilets. Water sources exist but aren't potable. Bring a filter.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through recreation.gov either online or via their call center.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited due to the high demand for reservations. However, some visitors report discrepancies between booked and actual usage rates. Confirmations or checks might alleviate these discrepancies.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable and non-refundable. A $10 fee applies for changes or cancellations made prior to the scheduled check-in date. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation fee.

AccessibilityThe campsites are not wheelchair accessible due to the remote and rugged terrain. They require strenuous hikes to access.

Site SizeTent sites are designated with a maximum capacity of two tents and five people. Group sites accommodate up to four tents and ten people.

PrivacyCampsites at both locations provide minimal privacy due to clustering and limited vegetation. Some user reviews suggest tents may need to be very close together due to space constraints.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose Site 1 at Hōlua for views and sunlight. Sites 2 and 3 at Palikū offer wind protection due to surrounding vegetation.

Best CampsitesAt Hōlua, Site 1 offers the most space and clearer views of the crater. Palikū's sites blend into rainforest surroundings with denser vegetation. Signage can be unclear, and reviews mention difficulty locating tent-specific sites versus cabin areas. The reservation system sometimes shows availability that doesn't match actual use, so confirm your exact site location when you arrive.

Need help booking Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Haleakalā National Park's wilderness tent areas, Hōlua and Palikū, provide a mixture of primitive and rugged camping amenities suitable for experienced backpackers. Facilities are minimal, emphasizing the remote and pristine nature of the environment. Both areas are accessible only by hiking, and campers must prepare for varying and extreme weather conditions.

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Haleakalā National Park offers an array of wilderness-based activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The area's unique ecosystem and dramatic landscape, coupled with its remote location, make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsChallenges include altitude changes, extreme weather, rough terrain, and encounters with territorial geese (Nēnē). Hikers report strong winds and wet conditions as significant obstacles.

Active AlertsBackcountry users must plan to enter the park entrance for their stay no earlier than 7 am unless they have also obtained a sunrise reservation granting access to the park between 3 and 7 am. NO Fires. Open fires or gathering firewood is NOT allowed.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyNo open fires permitted. Visitors must use portable stoves for cooking.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 8 PM to 8 AM.

Emergency ServicesLimited staffing at Haleakalā National Park itself. Nearest hospital: Maui Memorial Medical Center in Kahului (approx. 45 minutes away). Police and ranger services available within the park.

Trash & RecyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities available. Campers must pack out all trash to maintain the pristine environment.

Water FeaturesNon-potable water sources available at both campsites; water must be treated before use. Rain-fed catchment systems are seasonal.

Camp HostLimited staffing available; visitors can contact rangers at the Headquarters Visitor Center.

Weather at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

275 reviews

Satisfactory

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty and remote experience of Haleakalā's wilderness campsites. While many appreciate the solitude and breathtaking landscapes, complaints center around the reservation system, unclear site markings, and basic facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 275 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praise the pristine beauty, remote location, incredible stargazing, and unique landscapes. The presence of native wildlife such as the Nēnē is also a highlight.

Based on 275 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include difficulty with the reservation system, lack of clear site markings, and minimal amenities such as no potable water or picnic tables. Some users also note the need for better...

Based on 275 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a water filter, as water sources are non-potable. Prepare for extreme weather changes, including rain, high winds, and cold temperatures. Start hikes early to avoid the midday sun and ensure...

Based on 275 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsites are accessible year-round, but reviews suggest that weather conditions vary greatly. Rain and wind are common at Palikū, while Hōlua is more exposed and can be sunnier. Winter months...

Based on 275 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The landscapes are otherworldly, and the night sky is out of this world." "Hōlua Campground had stunning views above the clouds." "Be prepared for changing weather conditions—it’s part of the magic...

Based on 275 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Hōlua campsites are noted for their stunning views but are more exposed and clustered. Palikū is lush and cooler but has uneven and poorly marked sites. Group sites at both locations are adequate for...

Based on 275 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews directly address accessibility features, likely because the strenuous hikes required to reach the campsites make them unsuitable for individuals with mobility challenges.

Based on 275 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are prohibited at the wilderness campsites, and no reviews mention pet-related experiences.

Based on 275 reviews

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Three backcountry cabins. Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa. Sit within Haleakalā's massive volcanic basin, accessible only by trails that cross cinder cones, lava flows, and ash fields painted in reds and oranges. Each cabin sleeps up to 12 on padded bunks and costs $75 per night. The permit lottery runs months in advance, and visitors trek in all gear, including cookware and fire starters, for a night in one of Hawaii's most remote overnight shelters.

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Campgrounds

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

About Haleakalā National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit), sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place - renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.

Directions

Located on the island of Maui, Haleakalā National Park extends from the 10,023 foot (3055m) summit of Haleakalā down the southeast flank of the mountain to the Kīpahulu coast near Hana. These two sections of the park are not directly connected by road, but both can be reached from Kahului. There are no gas stations within the park.