How much does camping cost at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)?

Camping fees at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) range from $75/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 (Cabin Permits) first-come first-served or reservation?

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) 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 (Cabin Permits) before I book?

Yes! Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) has 12 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 (Cabin Permits)?

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) 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 (Cabin Permits)?

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

How many campsites does Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) have?

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) has 3 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 (Cabin Permits)?

Pets are not allowed at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits). 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 (Cabin Permits)?

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits) offers: Restrooms, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)?

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

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

4.21

235 reviews

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768, USA

Top 19% in HISummer

C-Report Card

Peace & QuietStargazing

Featured in:Camping Near Haleakala National Park

Quick Facts

6,970 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,970 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

808-572-4487

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768, USA

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

PO Box 369, Makawao, HI, 96768, USA

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).

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.

Weather at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

Best Time to Camp at Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most stable, clear weather and the best visibility across the crater—the high plateau typically sees daytime highs around 50–70°F with much lower nighttime temps (often 30–45°F). Trails into the cabins are drier and less muddy, making the long approaches and technical footing easier, and nights are excellent for stargazing and photographic light. Expect higher visitor demand and stronger trade winds on exposed ridgelines, so book backcountry cabin permits well in advance and be Peak months: July, August, June, September

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 19% in HI

Summer offers the most stable, clear weather and best visibility across the crater.

Planning Tips

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

About Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

Haleakalā National Park's backcountry cabins sit in mid-elevation forest within the volcanic crater, accessible only by trail. Operated by the National Park Service, these primitive shelters offer a rare chance to overnight deep in one of Hawaii's most dramatic landscapes. Visitors hike in for solitude, stargazing, and encounters with native wildlife across the high plateau.

The cabins at Haleakalā National Park are designed for backcountry camping, with a focus on primitive and rustic accommodations accessible only by hiking.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most stable, clear weather and the best visibility across the crater—the high plateau typically sees daytime highs around 50–70°F with much lower nighttime temps (often 30–45°F). Trails into the cabins are drier and less muddy, making the long approaches and technical footing easier, and nights are excellent for stargazing and photographic light. Expect higher visitor demand and stronger trade winds on exposed ridgelines, so book backcountry cabin permits well in advance and be Peak months: July, August, June, September

Elevation6970 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe three cabins occupy different ecological zones across the 19-square-mile basin. Hōlua sits at 6,970 feet among cinder cones and frozen lava flows, surrounded by dry shrubland and exposed volcanic rock. Palikū hugs the eastern cliffs where trade winds push moisture into native rainforest and grasses turn green. Kapalaoa rests in rolling grasslands near the Kaupo Gap, with fewer trees and wider views across the crater floor. Silversword plants dot the landscape, and on clear nights the Milky Way stretches overhead with no light pollution.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park provides three wilderness cabins: Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa. Each cabin includes basic facilities such as padded bunks and stoves, but visitors must treat water before drinking and carry essentials. Up to 12 guests can stay per cabin.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned. Visitors are reminded of the sacredness of the site and to behave with cultural sensitivity.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov and via contact center.

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.

Site SizeThe cabins accommodate up to 12 people with 12 padded bunks available.

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 SitesPalikū 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 gets frequent praise for its rainforest setting and cliff views, though moisture brings more mud and occasional rodent issues. Kapalaoa offers better stargazing and sits near the Kaupo Gap with wider horizons. Hōlua puts you closest to the trailhead but exposes you to stronger winds.

Need help booking Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)?

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

All three cabins offer pit toilets and non-potable water. You must filter or treat water before drinking. Each cabin has a wood-burning stove, a two-burner propane stove, and 12 padded bunks. Bring a lighter or matches. During drought, you must pack in all your water. No electricity in the cabins. There is no cell service in the wilderness.

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Camp Store

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

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

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 Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Each cabin is equipped with a pit toilet nearby.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

235 reviews

Satisfactory

Haleakalā 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 235 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 235 reviews

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 235 reviews

Site-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 235 reviews

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 235 reviews

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 235 reviews

Camper 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 235 reviews

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 235 reviews

Pet-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 235 reviews

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Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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

808-572-4487

Go if

You want a true wilderness experience with dramatic volcanic scenery and are prepared for a challenging hike in.

Skip if

You need drive-up access, full amenities, or aren't comfortable with rodent-proofing your food and gear.

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Campgrounds

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)

C-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 11% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 154 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-.Facilities
Grade B-.Value
Grade B-.Rules & policies

Watch-outs

Grade C-.Bugs & weather
Grade C-.Safety
Grade C-.Booking

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 (Cabin Permits), 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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