Haleakala National Park (Cabin Permits)
4.22103 reviewsPO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768, USA
Haleakala National Park (Cabin Permits)
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Cabin Nonelectric fees are $75 per night, valid throughout the year. Separate park entrance fee required, valid for three days. The park honors interagency passes.
About this campground
Deep within the mystical Haleakalā crater, three remote backcountry cabins—Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa—await adventurous souls willing to trek across otherworldly volcanic terrain. These rustic shelters, accessible only by challenging trails that wind through a landscape more reminiscent of Mars than Earth, offer intrepid hikers a rare chance to sleep inside one of the world's most spectacular volcanic depressions. As darkness falls, the cabins become prime viewing stations for some of the clearest, most breathtaking stargazing on the planet, with the Milky Way stretching across the sky in brilliant detail.
The cabins at Haleakalā National Park are designed for backcountry camping, with a focus on primitive and rustic accommodations accessible only by hiking.
Historical SignificanceFor Native Hawaiians, Haleakalā Crater is not merely a geological wonder but a sacred realm where earth touches sky. This hallowed ground, whose name means 'House of the Sun,' holds deep spiritual significance in Hawaiian culture and mythology. Modern visitors are invited to experience this powerful place with the same reverence shown by generations of Hawaiians, treating the land and its stories with respect and walking gently upon this sacred mountain.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme in this high-altitude wilderness, where four seasons can unfold in a single day. Warm sunshine might greet you at noon with temperatures reaching a pleasant 70°F, only to plunge toward freezing as night falls. Fierce winds sometimes howl across the crater at speeds exceeding 80 mph, while sudden fog banks roll in like ghostly curtains, particularly around Palikū Cabin where the trade winds meet the mountain. Pack for an Arctic expedition even if you start your hike in shorts—this mercurial climate demands respect and preparation.
ElevationPerched between 6,380 and 7,250 feet above sea level, these cabins exist in a realm where the air grows thin and every breath reminds you of your altitude. The dramatic elevation creates a unique environment where lowland visitors often experience the peculiar sensation of breathlessness during simple tasks. This lofty setting rewards those who take time to acclimatize with crystalline air, unobstructed views, and a profound sense of standing above the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryEach cabin occupies its own distinct world within the crater's vast amphitheater. Hōlua sits amid a moonscape of cinder cones and ancient lava flows, while Palikū nestles against verdant cliffs where native rainforest thrives in the moist trade winds. Kapalaoa rests in rolling grasslands that ripple like golden seas. Throughout this geological wonderland, the iconic silversword plants stand sentinel, their silver rosettes glinting in the sun, while the landscape shifts from barren volcanic desert to lush native shrublands in the span of a single hike.
Geological RegionHaleakalā Crater crowns the island of Maui as a massive volcanic depression that defies easy description—neither a true crater nor a simple caldera, but rather an enormous erosional valley modified by later volcanic activity. This geological masterpiece spans 19 square miles of technicolor cinder cones, frozen rivers of lava, and ash fields painted in surreal shades of red, orange, and purple. The dynamic landscape tells the story of fire and time, where each hiking trail crosses millions of years of volcanic history written in stone.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabins are accessed via strenuous hikes, making them unsuitable for individuals with mobility issues. Hōlua Cabin requires a shorter hike (3.7 miles), while Palikū and Kapalaoa cabins are reached by longer, more challenging trails.
Sites SizeThe cabins accommodate up to 12 people with 12 padded bunks available.
Sites PrivacyThe cabins offer a secluded experience within wilderness areas, surrounded by natural features like shrublands or rainforests, depending on the cabin location.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPalikū Cabin is ideal for visitors who enjoy lush environments and rainforests. Kapalaoa Cabin is recommended for those seeking open spaces and stargazing opportunities.
Best CampsitesPalikū Cabin is highly praised for its lush rainforest surroundings and stunning views. Kapalaoa Cabin offers great stargazing and proximity to Kaupo Gap.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
NOON
Check-out
NOON
Stay Limit
Maximum of 3 nights per month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin occupancy is limited to one reservation group per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEach cabin is equipped with 12 padded bunks, a wood stove, a propane burner, and basic furnishings. Nearby pit toilets and water spigots are shared with wilderness tent sites (Hōlua and Palikū).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov and via contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; cabin reservations are required and are highly competitive.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable. Cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur no refund; cancellations prior to 14 days require a $10 cancellation fee plus partial refund. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The Haleakalā National Park cabins offer unique backcountry recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy observing native wildlife, star-gazing, and hiking among distinctive cinder cones and volcanic features. Some reviews highlight the serenity and opportunity for solitude.
Hiking
The park features numerous trails, including the Halemauʻu and Keoneheʻeheʻe trails, with varying levels of difficulty. Hikes range from 3.7 miles to over 10 miles to reach cabins. Notable routes include the Silversword Loop and trails leading towards Kaupō Gap.Wildlife viewing
Native species like the Nēnē (Hawaiian goose) are commonly seen. Visitors are advised to maintain distance and not feed wildlife. Birdwatchers particularly enjoy Palikū's lush surroundings.Winter Activities
During winter, visitors must prepare for cold conditions, with potential storms causing temperatures to drop below freezing. The wood stoves provide some heating, but guests have noted challenges with lighting the provided logs.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not offered in the park's wilderness areas.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Open fires are prohibited. Fires are allowed only in wood stoves using supplied logs. Gathering firewood is not allowed.
- Quiet hours are 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme weather, steep terrain, loose rocks, altitude changes, and aggressive wildlife like Nēnē geese. Rodents have been reported inside cabins.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Maui Memorial Medical Center in Kahului (approximately 30 miles away). Ranger station: Haleakalā Visitor Center located at 9,740 ft elevation, near the Summit Entrance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities on-site. Campers must pack out all garbage, including leftover food, to maintain the park's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresNon-potable water spigots are located near each cabin, but water is sourced from rain catchment systems and may run dry during droughts.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include difficulty lighting compressed logs, rodent infestations, lack of cookware, and inadequate communication from park staff.
Campground Map
PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768, USA
Driving directionsFrom Kahului, take Hana Highway (SR36) and travel 2.0 miles toward Hana. Turn right onto Haleakala Highway (SR37) and travel for 7.8 miles. Turn left onto State Highway 377 and travel for 6 miles. Turn left onto Crater Road (large brown wooden Haleakala NP sign mounted in median) and travel for 1.2 miles. Continue on Crater Road for 9.9 miles to arrive at the park boundary/Entrance Station. The Summit (elevation 10,023 ft) is 11 miles, about an additional 30-minute drive, beyond the Entrance Station.
Access is via paved roads leading into Haleakalā National Park from Hana Highway and Haleakala Highway. Crater Road includes steep climbs and switchbacks. Seasonal closures are not indicated, but roads may be impacted by storms.Nearby places
Kahului (approximately 30 miles, 50 minutes)
Paia (approximately 25 miles, 45 minutes)
Makawao (approximately 21 miles, 40 minutes)
Kula (approximately 11 miles, 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
The Haleakalā Visitor Center at 9,740 ft elevation sells firewood and other basic supplies. For groceries and other necessities, Kahului offers the nearest stores approximately 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
103 reviews
Haleakala National Park (Cabin Permits) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews show mixed sentiments about the Haleakalā wilderness cabins. While many praise the unique backcountry experience, stunning views, and excellent hiking opportunities, there are common complaints about maintenance issues, the difficulty of lighting the provided logs, and inconsistent supplies of propane or cookware.
Review Summaries
Based on 103 reviews
What Campers Love
Key highlights from reviews include the breathtaking scenery, opportunities for stargazing, and the exceptional solitude offered by the cabins. Multiple users noted the 'unreal' landscapes and the...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues frequently raised include the difficulty of booking cabins, the challenge of lighting compressed wood logs, rodent activity in some cabins, and inconsistencies in the availability of cookware...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing durable fire starters, extra layers for the cold, and their own cookware as a precaution. They also advise reaching the cabins early and preparing for variable weather...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that winter and rainy seasons require extra preparation due to cold temperatures and muddy trails. Summer months are slightly milder but can still feature variable weather.
Based on 103 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The crater is always fantastic, but the cabins all need upgrades." - Carol A. "Such a special place!" - Dawn J. "Bring fire starters, as the logs are hard to light." - Hanna L.
Based on 103 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The Hōlua Cabin is noted for its shorter hiking approach and expansive views, while Palikū's rainforest surroundings and Kapalaoa's grassland setting receive praise. Palikū is frequently described as...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Few reviews discuss accessibility features in detail, though the strenuous hikes required to access the cabins suggest that they may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility.
Based on 103 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited on all trails and within the wilderness cabin areas. This limitation has not been widely discussed in reviews.
Based on 103 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025