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

Camping fees at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit) range from $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 01 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 Fires. Open fires or gathering firewood is NOT allowed.. 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

Top 19% in HISummer

CReport Card

Stargazing

Featured in:Camping Near Haleakala National Park#3

Quick Facts

6,940 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,940 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Hike to: $20.00; Hike To: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$20.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

808-572-4487hale_interpretation@nps.gov

I manage this campground

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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.

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.

Weather at Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Current alerts(13)

Essentials: first aid kit, trail map, compass, extra food, Extra water (3 - 4 liters per person/day), flashlight, headlight with extra batteries, tent/shelter with rain fly, sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat), sleeping bag, emergency blanket, extra layers (rain…
Kaupō Gap Trail: The Kaupō Gap Trail leaves the boundary of Haleakalā National Park and is not maintained by the NPS. Hikers assume all risk on this rugged, unmaintained, and brushy trail. At times, the trail can be difficult to follow or find.
License Plate. If you are renting a vehicle- please enter “Rental” in the license plate form field. When you arrive on island, you MUST log back into recreation.gov to enter your rental car plate. Once your permit is printed you cannot edit your license plates.
Pack Animals: If planning to travel by pack animal--please notify park staff upon making your reservation to ensure sufficient paddock space is available. All waste produced by pack animals must be removed from parking areas and trailheads.

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

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most stable, dry weather and the best visibility — expect daytime highs around 50–70°F and nights roughly 35–50°F — making long hikes, sunrise/sunset photography, and stargazing at high elevation most rewarding. Trail surfaces are generally drier and less muddy, and Palikū's rainforest still feels lush while Hōlua's crater vistas are at their clearest. Crowds on the paved summit sunrise areas increase in summer, but wilderness tent permits keep overnight backcountry use limited Peak months: June, July, August, September

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 19% in HI

Summer is best: most stable, dry weather and best visibility for hikes and photography.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Haleakalā National Park's wilderness tent camping requires a permit for access to remote backcountry sites within the volcanic crater and rainforest zones. Managed by the National Park Service, this primitive experience attracts hikers seeking solitude among native landscapes where Nēnē geese roam and night skies reveal exceptional stargazing. Vault toilets are the only amenity; campers carry all gear and supplies into the backcountry.

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 SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most stable, dry weather and the best visibility — expect daytime highs around 50–70°F and nights roughly 35–50°F — making long hikes, sunrise/sunset photography, and stargazing at high elevation most rewarding. Trail surfaces are generally drier and less muddy, and Palikū's rainforest still feels lush while Hōlua's crater vistas are at their clearest. Crowds on the paved summit sunrise areas increase in summer, but wilderness tent permits keep overnight backcountry use limited Peak months: June, July, August, September

Elevation6940 ft above sea level

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.

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

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Reserving a campsite

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

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

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)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

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

I manage this campground

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

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.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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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

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

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

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

Outdoorithm Community

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Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Hike to: $20.00; Hike To: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$20.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

808-572-4487hale_interpretation@nps.gov

Go if

You want a primitive wilderness experience with dramatic volcanic landscapes and world-class night skies.

Skip if

You need vehicle access to your campsite or amenities beyond vault toilets.

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Reservable

93.013 km

$5.00 - $10.00 / night

Campgrounds

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 25% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 180 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade B+.Scenery
Grade B+.Belonging
Grade B-.Things to do

Watch-outs

Grade F.Booking
Grade D.Getting there
Grade C-.Bugs & weather

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Hawaii grades overall

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.

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