Kipahulu Campground

4.70

578 reviews

42 Mile Marker PO Box 99 Hana, HI 96713

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Beach Camping#1 Camping Near Haleakala National Park#1 Hiking Camping

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$8 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$8 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Kipahulu Campground

$8.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range from $8 to $20 per night depending on seasonality and site type. A National Park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle is required upon...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

808 572-4400www.nps.gov/hale

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What Campers Say

4.70

Top-Rated

Based on 578 reviews

108 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanspacious

"User reviews of Kipahulu Campground are largely positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. "Many guests praised the scenic views, proximity to hiking trails, and clean facilities." However, the lack of running water, showers, and reliable cell service were common complaints."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

42 Mile Marker PO Box 99 Hana, HI 96713

Kipahulu Campground

42 Mile Marker PO Box 99 Hana, HI 96713

Driving directionsFrom Kahului, the Kipahulu Campground is located 64 miles along the historic Road to Hana Scenic Drive highway 360. Plan to arrive before evening to set up your campsite and be prepared for rain at any point on your journey. Packing a lunch or snacks and water is recommended as there are few places to eat along the way.

Accessible via the Road to Hana Scenic Drive, Highway 360, which is narrow and winding with frequent potholes, requiring caution. The road beyond Hana can be challenging but manageable.

Nearby places

Hana (10 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive).

Nearby supplies

Two general stores and food trucks are available in Hana, 10 miles away, offering basic food supplies and water.

Best Time to Camp at Kipahulu Campground

Kipahulu's tropical climate wraps visitors in warmth and humidity throughout the year, creating an environment where rain showers arrive as suddenly as they depart, leaving behind the fresh scent of wet earth and vegetation. The ever-present coastal winds provide natural air conditioning but can turn fierce near the cliff edges, reminding campers of the ocean's powerful presence. Smart travelers pack for both sunshine and showers, embracing the bugs and humidity as part of the authentic Hawaiian wilderness experience.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer is hot and buggy per seasonal notes; still scenic but less comfortable.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Tropical climate and trails are enjoyable; fall generally lush and pleasant.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Frequent showers make landscape lush; good for waterfalls and hikes.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 11% in HI

Winter months noted for cooler, comfortable temps; popular year-round.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 to December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season occurs between January 1 and December 31.
Current Alerts: No swimming is allowed at ‘Ohe’o pools due to safety concerns.

About Kipahulu Campground

Perched on the dramatic coastline of Maui's remote Kipahulu region, this intimate 21-site campground invites adventurers to experience Hawaii's raw, untamed beauty. Each campsite rests on a mosaic of grass and volcanic rock, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean's endless horizon. While the camping experience here is beautifully primitive—with vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills but no running water or electricity—the reward is immediate access to some of the island's most spectacular trails. A short stroll leads you to the thundering coastline or the trailheads for the famous Pipiwai Trail and peaceful Kuloa Point Loop. Your leashed four-legged companions are welcome to join in the adventure.

Kipahulu Campground offers a range of camping options, including drive-in sites, walk-in sites, and a group site. "The campsites are well-maintained and situated in a scenic coastal area."

Historical Significance

Indigenous Heritage

This sacred ground within Haleakalā National Park holds centuries of Polynesian stories within its soil and stones. The area resonates with the mana (spiritual power) of ancient Hawaiian culture, where every waterfall, cliff, and forest grove connects to the legends and lives of those who came before. Modern visitors become temporary guardians of this cultural treasure, honoring posted signs and respecting the profound spiritual significance that makes this more than just a place to pitch a tent—it's a living connection to Hawaii's soul.

Weather and SeasonsKipahulu's tropical climate wraps visitors in warmth and humidity throughout the year, creating an environment where rain showers arrive as suddenly as they depart, leaving behind the fresh scent of wet earth and vegetation. The ever-present coastal winds provide natural air conditioning but can turn fierce near the cliff edges, reminding campers of the ocean's powerful presence. Smart travelers pack for both sunshine and showers, embracing the bugs and humidity as part of the authentic Hawaiian wilderness experience.

ElevationNestled at sea level where the ancient volcanic slopes of Haleakalā meet the Pacific, the campground offers a rare low-elevation camping experience in a park famous for its 10,000-foot summit. Here, the air is thick with ocean spray and tropical warmth, a world away from the alpine conditions at the volcano's peak.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sound of waves crashing against ancient lava cliffs while morning light illuminates expansive grassy fields dotted with your fellow campers' tents. This extraordinary landscape serves as your basecamp for exploring nature's artistry—from the towering bamboo forests that whisper in the wind to the spectacular cascade of Waimoku Falls plunging 400 feet through the jungle. The legendary 'Ohe'o Gulch pools beckon with their crystalline waters, while Makahiku Falls thunders in the distance. Every direction offers a postcard-worthy view, whether gazing out at the infinite ocean or inland toward the verdant valleys carved by centuries of tropical rains.

Geological RegionThe Kipahulu District showcases nature's dramatic handiwork where Haleakalā's ancient lava flows met the relentless Pacific, creating a landscape of jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and volcanic rubble softened by time. This geological wonderland transitions seamlessly from wave-battered rocky coastline to lush valleys where bamboo forests thrive in the volcanic soil. Waterfalls have carved deep gorges through the hardened lava, creating the dramatic cascades and pools that make this region a geological textbook written in stone, water, and time.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Camping is limited to 3 nights in any 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite allows up to 6 people.

Groups

The group site (Site 21) accommodates up to 24 people, six vehicles, and six tents. It features two picnic tables and two charcoal grills.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spread out across a flat grassy field. Coastal walk-in sites are located near cliffs, while loop campsites are closer to amenities.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Rec.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; all sites must be reserved in advance through Rec.gov.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations may also incur penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's fee.

AccessibilityThe campground features flat grassy terrain, which can be muddy and rocky. There are accessible restrooms and water fountains at the nearby visitor center. Coastal campsites are not accessible by vehicle but can be reached with a short walk.

Site SizeMost campsites are spacious, accommodating up to six people and two tents. Walk-in sites allow for one vehicle and still have ample space for campers.

PrivacyCampsites are generally well-spaced, though privacy varies. "Walk-in sites near the cliffs offer more seclusion and scenic views.

Total Campsites21 campsites

Recommended SitesWalk-in sites (16-20) are ideal for privacy and ocean views. Sites closer to the loop (1-15) offer more shelter from wind.

Amenities available

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Kipahulu Campground is an ideal setting for outdoor recreation, especially hiking. The area includes trails leading to waterfalls, coastal views, and bamboo forests. "Hiking in the park is the major attraction," with the Pipiwai Trail being a highlight for many visitors.

HikingThe Pipiwai Trail is a standout, offering a 4-mile round-trip hike through bamboo forests and leading to Waimoku Falls. The Kuloa Point Loop Trail and the Coastline Trail provide shorter, scenic options near the campground. "The hikes are well-maintained and provide stunning views of waterfalls and coastal cliffs."

Wildlife viewing"Wildlife viewing is a highlight," with visitors frequently mentioning sightings of native birds and the lush natural surroundings.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe nearby visitor center offers cultural exhibits and Junior Ranger programs for children. "Rangers provide valuable information about the area's natural and cultural history."

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong winds, frequent rain, and rocky terrain can pose challenges. Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent. Coastal cliffs require caution.

Active AlertsNo swimming is allowed at ‘Ohe’o pools due to safety concerns.

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.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in provided grills; gas stoves are allowed. No ground fires are permitted.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Hana Health Clinic (10 miles) and Hana Fire Station.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are provided and maintained year-round. Visitors are encouraged to leave no trace.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to ocean cliffs and near ‘Ohe’o Gulch and waterfalls such as Makahiku Falls and Waimoku Falls.

Camp HostPark rangers patrol daily; visitor center staff provide information and amenities.

Weather at Kipahulu Campground

Reviews

4.7

578 reviews

Top-Rated

Kipahulu Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Kipahulu Campground are largely positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. "Many guests praised the scenic views, proximity to hiking trails, and clean facilities." However, the lack of running water, showers, and reliable cell service were common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 578 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful views of the ocean," "clean vault toilets," and "proximity to famous trails like Pipiwai" are frequently mentioned. Campers appreciate "spacious and well-spread sites" and the "peaceful,...

Based on 578 reviews

Common Concerns

"No running water at the campground," "inconvenient to access water only at the visitor center," and "the group site can get noisy at times." Some guests also noted the absence of showers and...

Based on 578 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Bring plenty of water and bug spray," "book walk-in sites for the best views," and "prepare for sudden rain." Many visitors suggest arriving early to secure the best campsites and recommend visiting...

Based on 578 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Rain is frequent but manageable with proper gear. Winter months are noted for cooler, comfortable temperatures, while summer months can be hot and buggy. The campground remains popular throughout the...

Based on 578 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sunrise and ocean views are unparalleled," "clean bathrooms despite the rustic setup," and "the absence of water made it challenging but manageable."

Based on 578 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 10 is praised for its shade and privacy, while Sites 16-20 are favored for their cliffside views. The group site (21) is appreciated for its capacity but can be noisy.

Based on 578 reviews