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11 Unforgettable RV Camp Spots on Maui (Both Parks and Rustic)

Published on March 18th, 2019 by Camper Report

If you’re an avid adventure seeker like me, then you’ve probably spent many a day fantasizing about exploring the islands of Hawaii. The lush, diverse foliage, tropical weather, and cascading hills and valleys provide some of the best RV campsites in the world.

So to help you get your best RV experience on this beautiful island, here are 11 Unforgettable RV campsites on Maui:

  1. Wai’anapanapa State Park
  2. Hosmer Grove Campground
  3. Kipahulu Campground
  4. Polipoli State Recreation Area
  5. Paliku Campsite
  6. Camp Olowalu
  7. Pāpalaua State Wayside Park
  8. YMCA Camp Keanae
  9. Camp Maluhia
  10. Holua Campground
  11. Kanaha Beach Park

Each of these spots offers unique benefits, locations, and opportunities for your adventures. It is important that you find the perfect place to camp for you and your family.

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Now, one thing to understand before going out on your big adventure to Hawaii is that there aren’t a whole lot of options for RV parks in Hawaii. This is because it’s impractical for most people to ship their RV to the island. But, if you do have a way of getting your RV to the island, there are several great campgrounds to choose from.

1. Wai’anapanapa State Park

Wai’anapanapa State Park sits right along the Road to Hana, at the end of Wai’anapanapa Road. Because this campground is so close to Hana road (which is one of the top attractions in Maui) the drive there, and the stay are sure to be incredibly unforgettable. There are beautiful attractions close by that are more unique than anything you’ll ever see.

The beach in this park is a volcanic-sand beach, which means the sand is black. This provides beautiful and unique scenery to your trip.

In addition, the tide pools in the park shine their own unique color several times a year. The tide pools will turn a deep red. Scientists say that it’s because of the arrival of shrimp which floods the pools with the red color. Hawaiian folklore claims that rather it is the blood of Popoaleae, a princess that was supposedly murdered by her husband in a nearby cave.

Either way, one thing rings true, and that is that this park is full of color, beauty, and culture. Camping here will be an experience that you’ll never find anywhere else.

This park is known for its ability to blend rustic with class. You can step into the town of Hana and pick up some books, groceries or whatever else you need, and then return to camp to find luscious green foliage and vibrant beaches.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Showers, strong cell phone reception, ocean access, ADA
accessible, picnic tables, restrooms, scenic viewpoints,
water fountains, hiking trails
Daily Price$12 (residents) $18 (non-residents)
LocationMaui’s western tip
ReservationsGet a free camping pass online before you arrive

2. Hosmer Grove Campground

Hosmer Grove Campground sits in the center of Maui, just below the 7,000-foot elevation level on the side of the Haleakala Volcano. It sits right in a cloud belt, which means that it’s often cold, raining, and can hit freezing temperatures at night. Come prepared to face the cold when camping here.

Each campsite is separated with grassy meadows and shrub-land of the area. This beautiful environment allows campers to be able to see many kinds of wildlife all over the campground. Many people see either a Maui ʻalauahio or even an ʻiʻiwi.

This is a beautiful place to camp, and while it doesn’t have all the amenities that other camp spots do, the view and the wildlife make up for it. There are no showers, no full-hookups, no pools, and no hot tubs.

But for many people, that is part of the charm. You can get out into Hawaii and disconnect from the outside world. It’s a great chance to get out into some of the most beautiful nature and let go.

# of RV Sites10
Amenities
Pets allowed, picnic tables, BBQ pits, drinking water, vault toilets,
Daily Price$25
LocationCenter of Maui
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

3. Kipahulu Campground

Kipahulu Campground is located on the back side of Haleakala Volcano and comes very highly recommended. It is only a walk away from the Seven Sacred Pools.

Not only that, but this is an incredible campground is surrounded by many opportunities for adventures just waiting to be experienced. Those who love waterfalls, beaches, and explore bamboo forests will love this site.

One blogger, when talking about this campground stated that “We chose this campground based on lots of recommendations, and… we glad we did. Be prepared for warm weather, lots of bugs (aloha, mosquitoes) and rain. “

Travelin’ Fools

One of the main things that people love to do at this campground is hiking. The incredible cinematic views and trails often cause people to be captivated by the natural beauty. One reviewer on Trip Advisor described the Pipiwai Trail of Kipahulu Campground using words such as,

“One of the most glorious hikes in Kipahulu (Hana side of Maui) is the up through the valley on Pipiwai Trail, to spectacular Waimoku Falls. The bamboo forest is absolutely photogenic and you feel like all of your creative energy juices are flowing because everywhere you look there is more beauty to capture. There is sort of a Disney-esque feeling about the twisted forest that at times I longed for my canvas and paints. Camping was just the perfect venue which enabled us to sleep with nature and absorb the spectacular beauty, including the star-filled sky.”

A TripAdvisor Member
# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Pets allowed, strong cell reception, restrooms,
and running water
Daily Price$25
LocationLocated within Haleakala National Park
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

4. Polipoli State Recreation Area

Polipoli State Recreation Area has some of the most breathtaking views. Because the recreation area sits 6,200 feet high, the view rolls over all of Maui and even reaches out to the neighboring islands of Lanai, Kahoolawe, and Molokai.

Because the campgrounds are so far above sea level, it does get quite cold, especially at night. The temperatures can reach freezing at night, so when camping here, be prepared to bundle up! The height does make this a popular location to launch paragliders though.

This recreation area is unique compared to the rest of Maui because it is one of the only parks and campgrounds that has access to the conifer forest. This area is composed of 10 acres of the Kula Forest Reserve. In and out of these forests lie exciting trails that one can hike, run or bike along.

There are four hiking trails in Polipoli State Recreation Area. Each one of these trails has unique views and signs.

  • The Haleakala Ridge Trail: Features scrub, grassland, and forest habitat with cinder substrates.
  • The Plum Trail: Planted with plum and other trees.
  • The Polipoli Trail: Features various conifers.
  • The Redwood Trail: Has redwoods and an old ranger’s cabin.

Another activity that many campers enjoy is hunting for boars, birds and goats. Because of this, campers are encouraged to wear bright colors.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Pit toilets, hunting, nature trails
Daily Price$12 (residents) $18 (non-residents)
LocationIn the mountains of Maui’s south coast
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

5. Paliku Campsite

If you’re looking to get off the beaten trail, this campsite is exactly what you’re looking for. It sits in Haleakala National Park secluded high up on the mountains overlooking the entire island. The views at this campsite are absolutely unbeatable.

Because this campsite is so high up, it requires quite a long and strenuous walk-in to reach the camp. The camp is located 9.3 miles along the Sands Trail. Because this site is so high, it is important to prepare for cold temperatures, high winds, and some elevation changes.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Nature trails, pit toilets
Daily PriceFree permit required (limited to 3 days)
LocationIn the mountains of Maui’s south coast
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

6. Camp Olowalu

Camp Olowalu is a hotspot for those who want to spend most of their time on the beaches and in the ocean. The campground offers incredible beach access, and a lot of the sites are right next to the water!

The campsites are surrounded by fruit trees and native species of other plants and animals. The views are incredible, and you can see the West Maui Mountains, enjoy beautiful sunsets, explore the rich Hawaiian history and of course, relax on the beautiful beach. Because of this beautiful and unique ecosystem, Camp Olowalu takes ocean safety very seriously.

This site makes you feel right at home. The camp offers you a fresh cup of Hawaiian coffee every morning and makes sure that you’re always doing well. If you ever need anything, they have an Olowalu General Store within walking distance of the camp.

Olowalu has a coral reef that sits along the bottom of the ocean. The Olowalu Reef is an important mother reef that provides cleaning, feeding and socializing for green sea turtles and manta rays. The health and safety of this reef is one of the campsite’s top priorities.

# of RV Sites35
Amenities
Showers, pets allowed, strong cell signal,
dishwashing areas, free coffee, potable water
Daily Price$20 (discounts with military, fire and police
personnel
LocationMaui’s southwest coast
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

7. Pāpalaua State Wayside Park

Pāpalaua State Wayside Park is actually owned and operated by the County of Maui. It sits along 6.7 acres of oceanfront, which is great for those who are drawn to the ocean. You can simply wake up, throw your suit on, and jump into the water!

There are many things to do here, especially because the park is situated along a strip of beach and ocean. During high surf, there are thousands of peaks that form, which attracts bodyboarders and longboard surfers.

On the other hand, when the waters are calm, it’s the perfect place to go snorkeling and see the reef and animals hidden under the waves.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Pets allowed, strong cell signal, picnic tables, BBQ pits, beach access
Daily Price$5 – $20 (permit required)
LocationMaui’s southwest coast
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

8. YMCA Camp Keanae

YMCA Camp Keanae is privately owned and is known for its great venues for group camping or social events. With its large recreational field, covered pavilion, and swimming pond, this campground is great for business vacations or family reunions.

The campground sits right at the top of a cliff overlooking the island, which creates some amazing views.

Reviews

“This is the ultimate location for rest & relaxation. Nestled deep in the tropical Hawaii rainforest you will be lulled to sleep by the sounds waves crashing in on the neighboring cliffs. Ample space large groups and more secluded spots for Romantic getaway or family vacation. Facilities are basic but extremely well maintained by the great staff. You won’t even know they are there. “

Renata Howe on Facebook
# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Showers, pets allowed, strong cell signal, swimming pond, gym, recreational field, covered pavilion
Daily Price$25
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

9. Camp Maluhia

Camp Maluhia is a privately owned campground that is open to public use. The Boy Scouts of America actually own it, which is one of the reasons that it’s so great for group camping.

It is 212 acres of luscious green land with many opportunities for adventuring, breath-taking views, and other activities. This campground is actually the only campground in Maui to have a pool. With this pool, the shooting range, and recreational field, kids have many chances to learn some new skills and discover new hobbies.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Pool, showers, strong cell signal, kitchen, shooting range, group fire pit
Daily PriceDepends on group size
LocationMaui’s north coast
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

10. Holua Campground

One of Holua Campground’s biggest attractions for campers is the miles and miles of hiking trails that run and twist through the Haleakala National Forest. Because the campground sits at about 7,000 feet, there are always beautiful views to be taken in, day or night.

Unlike some of the previous campsites discussed, such as the YMCA and Maluhia, Holua is quite private and it is common that visitors will be the only ones staying there on their visit.

# of RV SitesNo designated sites
Amenities
Pets allowed, hiking trails, pit toilets, and running water
Daily PriceFree permit required
LocationHaleakala National Forest
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve

11. Wilderness Backcountry Camping

*NOTICE: While this campsite is not available for RV camping, it is a great place to take a day trip, or even go off the trail for a few days.

The wilderness area is the area of Haleakala that allows for backpackers and hikers to explore and camp where they’d please. If you’re looking for a rustic experience, this is one of the most rustic opportunities available.

While this camping experience is not ideal for beginners, Hawaii and Maui provide lots of safety tips in order to ensure that the campers have the best experience possible.

The National Park Service offers a guide to Wilderness Camping in Haleakala. They give several tips to campers, telling them ways to prepare themselves for any circumstance while exploring the wilderness.

Daily PriceFree permit required (obtained at the Headquarters Visitor Center between 8 AM and 3 PM up to one day
in advance. Permits are free, requiring only a photo ID and a 10-minute orientation.
LocationHaleakala National Forest
ReservationsNo – first-come, first-serve.There are accommodations made for special educational and civic groups who can reserve a campsite in up to 6 months in advance

Tips Before You Go

  1. Select a route beforehand
  2. Let someone know where you are going.
  3. Stop at a visitor center.
  4. Take a map with you.
  5. Have the right gear.
  6. Wear sturdy hiking boots.
  7. Carry water and food.
  8. Weather changes unexpectedly. Be prepared for all kinds of weather.
  9. Dress in layers. Use synthetics or wool.
  10. Pack items in a plastic bag in case it rains.
  11. All drinking water must be treated.
  12. Be prepared for emergencies.
  13. There is no cell coverage through most of the backcountry.
  14. Carry a first aid kit and survival gear.

Items to Bring

  • Backpack
  • Hiking shoes
  • Water
  • Food
  • Raingear
  • Warm jacket
  • Warm sleeping bag
  • Layered clothing
  • Water filter
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Flashlight
  • Map
  • First-aid kit
  • Medications
  • Survival kit

Related Questions

Can you go camping anywhere in Maui? There are many places in Maui that you can camp. They have places such as national parks, state campsites, and county campsites. But if you’re going to stay at any of these campsites, you will need to get a camping permit through Hawaii DLNR, State Parks.

Is it legal to camp on the beaches? You definitely must do your research before setting up camp on a beach. Some places that advertise camping spots are actually selling them illegally, as some parts of the beach are owned by state parks, public beach areas or even private homeowners.

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