6 Incredible Campsites Near Maui for 2023

There are few places in the world more beautiful than Maui. The Hawaiian island boasts a landscape filled with mountains, valleys, waterfalls and some spectacular beaches. If you’re currently planning a camping trip in Hawaii and looking for great campsites in Maui, there are some great options and we’ve narrowed it down to 7 top spots on the Valley Isle.

Hosmer Grove Campground, 30076-30136 State Highway 378

Courtesy NPS

Hosmer Grove Campground is just inside the Haleakalā National Park, between Kula and the Haleakalā summit. It’s a short distance from each, set in a lovely quiet area with trees, grasses and the volcanic landscape that makes Maui so endearing.

You’re at the campground almost as soon as you enter the park from the main road so it’s convenient to pitch up and set up camp, and you can’t beat the price: only $5 a night to stay.

The campground is well-maintained and has dedicated RV sites. It’s relatively small as campgrounds go, but perfectly formed in our opinion.

Highlights of Hosmer Grove Campground:

  • Short drive from Kula
  • Car and RV access
  • Restrooms on site
  • Well-maintained

Waiʻanapanapa State Park, Hana, HI 96713

Courtesy Hawaii.gov

Waiʻānapana State Park is a short drive from Hana and ’s a lovely spot, close to black sandy beaches, caves, blowholes, hiking trails and lush green wilderness.

The park is a great place for wildlife, especially seabirds and you’ll often see people wandering around with big binoculars and cameras. If that’s not your thing, you can hike into Hana using the ancient coastal trail. That’s definitely worth the journey.

The campground is serviced with restrooms, showers, drinking water and cabins to rent. There are also designated spaces for RVs and campervans.

Highlights of Waiʻānapana State Park:

  • Proximity to the coast and ocean
  • The Hana coastal trail
  • Good amenities
  • Well-maintained and in great condition

Kīpahulu Campground, 148A Ha Highway, Ha, Hawaii 96713

Kīpahulu Campground is set inside Haleakalā National Park, minutes from the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. It’s easy to get to, close to the highway and just 10 miles from Hana.

The campground isn’t directly by the ocean but you can hear it when the wind is in the right direction. It’s a fairly remote site, ideal for getting away from it all and escaping the world.

Load up with supplies in Ha and drive 15 minutes to the park and into the campground. It’s an informal spot with no designated spots and few amenities, but we think that’s a good thing as you’re surrounded by nature with fewer distractions.

Highlights of Kīpahulu Campground:

  • Secluded
  • Set within the beautiful Haleakalā National Park
  • Lovely hikes, including close to a waterfall
  • Possibility for camping by the beach

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, Kula, Hawaii 96790

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is another mountain campsite that offers some amazing places to hike, bike and enjoy. It’s a hotspot for paragliders too, thanks to its elevation.

If hiking is your thing, this is one of the best campsites to use. It’s surrounded by nature trails going off in every direction and you’ll often see hiking boots and rucksacks disappearing into the wilderness.

It’s a very relaxed place to camp, with a natural hush that just helps you to relax and unwind. Cabins are also available here, and will cost you $100, or $70 if you are a resident of Hawaii.

Highlights of Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area:

  • Mountain campsite with amazing surroundings
  • Lots of hiking trails to explore
  • Ideal for paragliders
  • Basic bathroom facilities

Camp Olowalu, 800 Olowalu Village Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761

Courtesy Camp Olowalu

Camp Olowalu is a private campsite close to Mauna Kahalawai. It’s an idyllic spot that rents out ‘tentalows’, safari-style tents on platforms. It’s more glamping than camping as there’s a bathroom, WiFi, real beds and solar lighting, so this is far from roughing it.

You can also use your own tent, RV or campervan if you prefer. Whatever you stay in, you’ll be greeted with a fresh cup of Hawaiian coffee every morning, which is the perfect start to any day.

The region is a great place for hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling and whale watching in winter.

Highlights of Camp Olowalu:

  • Free Hawaiian coffee every morning
  • Restrooms, showers and clean water
  • BBQ areas and picnic tables
  • WiFi and charging stations

Pāpalaua State Wayside Park, Mile 11/12 Honoapiilani Highway, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793

Pāpalaua State Wayside Park covers over 6 acres of waterfront property and is an idyllic place to spend time. It’s by the sea and you’ll be able to roll out of bed onto the beach and into the surf within a few steps.

As it’s close to Wailea and Maalaea Bay, it’s convenient for venturing further afield while also providing lots to see and do close by.

The proximity of the surf means it isn’t as quiet as some of these other campsites on Maui, but that’s no bad thing. Once you’re tuned in, the sound of the waves will ease you gently into deep sleep.

Highlights of Pāpalaua State Wayside Park:

  • Camping on or by the beach
  • Cheap camping, entry fee only
  • Proximity to the main road and Wailea
  • Acres of beach, coastline and countryside on your doorstep


Campsites in Maui

There’s nothing to dislike about Maui. It’s one of the most spectacular islands in the world, perfect for camping, hiking and spending time outdoors.

If you want to avoid the tourist traps and get away from it all, there are plenty of campsites in Maui to choose from. Many more than these 7 but we hope they were enough to whet your appetite.


Source: https://outdoors.com/campsites-near-maui-for-2023/