Camping at Hosmer Grove Campground

Overview of Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park is located on the island of Maui in Hawaii. It is renowned for its stunningly massive volcano, Haleakalā, which makes up more than 75% of the island. The park is divided into two main sections: the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District. Visitors can experience a diverse range of ecosystems, from the barren lunar-like landscape at the summit to the lush waterfalls and pools along the coast.

Camping in Haleakalā National Park

Hosmer Grove Campground:

• Located in the Summit District near the park entrance at 7,000 feet elevation.
• Offers access to several trails and comes with amenities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms.
• It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and due to its elevation, it can be cold at night.

Kīpahulu Campground:

• Part of the Kīpahulu District of the park, near the ocean.
• It's accessible via the Hāna Highway, which is a winding, scenic drive.
• The campground is near the 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) and offers access to the Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls.
• Amenities include picnic tables and BBQ grills but be aware that there's no potable water available.

Backcountry Camping:

• There are two backcountry wilderness cabins accessible only by hiking trails within the park.
• Cabins are equipped with sleeping bunks, mattresses, a propane stove, and some cooking utensils.
• Reservations and permits are required for the cabins and can be made online on the park's website.

Wilderness Campsites:

• Two wilderness campsites, Hōlua and Palikū, are available for tent camping in the backcountry and can be accessed by trails for multi-day hikes.
• These sites have minimal facilities: pit toilets, no water.
• Permits for wilderness camping are required and available at the Park Headquarters Visitor Center or the Visitor Center at 9,740 feet elevation.

Camping Rules and Regulations

• Permits: A permit is required for all backcountry camping. You can get these at the park's visitor centers.
• Check Weather: Always check the weather forecast before embarking on a camping trip, as conditions can vary greatly, especially at high elevations.
• Leave No Trace: Visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment.
• Fees: There might be charges for camping; make sure to check the latest fee structure on the park's website or at the entrance.
• Wildlife: Do not feed any wildlife and store food securely.
• Altitude Sickness: Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms when camping at high elevations in the Summit District.

Reservations and Permits

• Permits for Hosmer Grove and Kīpahulu Campgrounds are not required, but for the wilderness cabins and wilderness campsites, it is necessary to secure permits in advance due to limited availability.
• For the most up-to-date information and to make reservations, it's advisable to visit the park's official website or contact the park directly.

Safety Tips and Preparedness

• Preparation: Bring appropriate clothing for cold temperatures, especially in the Summit District.
• Hydration: Carry plenty of water especially if you're hiking to your campsite.
• Sun Protection: The sun's rays are stronger at higher elevations, so sunscreen and a hat are essential.
• Flashlight/Headlamp: It gets dark at night with minimal light pollution, so bring lighting equipment.
• Leave Your Itinerary: Always inform someone about your camping and backcountry plans.

Additional Information

Visitor centers in the park offer additional information and educational displays about the park’s natural history, and they are good places to get the latest on trail conditions and closures. Always prioritize safety and environmental stewardship to ensure a positive and responsible camping experience at Haleakalā National Park.