Wilderness Cabins
Open — Open year-round with advance reservations required through Recreation.gov. There is no water at Hōlua Cabin due to extremely dry conditions. Palikū and Kapalaoa have non-potable water that must be treated. Limited to 3 nights total for all park areas in a 30-day period.
Hydrologic Outlook issued April 5 at 2:39PM HST by NWS Honolulu HI
ESFHFO A significant pattern change is expected to begin Tuesday as an upper disturbance and surface low pressure system evolve northwest of the islands. This system is expected to draw deep tropical moisture northward over the state, leading to an extended period of moderate to breezy southerly winds, increasing chances for widespread rainfall, and renewed flooding concerns from late Tuesday through next weekend. Now is a good time to prepare for possible flooding impacts: - Clear gutters, storm drains, culverts, and drainage areas of debris to improve water flow - Move valuable items out of low-lying or flood-prone areas - Check pumps, generators, and emergency equipment to ensure they are operational - Take stock of emergency supplies, including food, water, medications, flashlights, and backup power sources - Review family emergency plans and check on neighbors and family, especially those in flood-prone locations Residents living near streams, rivers, gulches, valleys, ravines, and flood-prone areas should remain especially alert and be prepared to move to higher ground if flash flooding develops. This outlook will be updated daily or sooner if needed. Stay up to date with the latest forecast information through weather.gov/hawaii, local media, social media, and NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts.
Fire Ban in Hosmer Campground
Due to severe fire danger, all open fires (including grills) are banned in Hosmer Campground until further notice.
Expect Long Waits at the Summit Entrance Station Before Sunset
Due to a high volume of traffic, cars may be temporarily turned around at the gate when capacity is reached. Purchasing a pass online does not guarantee entry at sunset. To ensure timely access, arrive 3 hours before sunset.
No Water in the Hōlua Area
As of August 8, 2025, there is NO water in the Hōlua area (Patrol and Visitor Cabins). This is the result of an extremely dry summer season. All backcountry travelers should plan to pack in all needed water when traveling through the Hōlua Area.
Hosmer Grove Water Fountain
As of August 15, 2025, the water fountain at Hosmer Grove is offline. There is potable water available at the spigots in the campground area.
Paving on Crater Road (Route 378)
Paving has begun on the road to the Summit District. Work will be done in sections between Mile Post 0 in Kula and Haleakalā entrance through October. Expect delays and leave extra time Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Drive Cautiously - Endangered Birds on Roadway
Nēnē (Hawaiian geese) and ʻuaʻu (Hawaiian petrel) are nesting in the park and may land on or frequent park roads, parking lots, and road leading up to the park. Drivers are reminded to drive at the posted speed limits and exercise caution.
Hydrologic Outlook issued April 4 at 8:55AM HST by NWS Honolulu HI
ESFHFO Southerly winds associated with low pressure developing northwest of the islands will draw a very moist tropical airmass northward early next week. This will bring periods of heavy rain and a risk of flash flooding. The most likely period for significant impacts is Wednesday night through Thursday night. However, afternoon shower development over island interiors on Tuesday may be heavy as well. The duration of flooding potential remains less certain than usual as deep moisture remains over the state into the middle of April leading to potential for additional waves of heavy rain next weekend or beyond. Now would be a good time to clear storm drains, culverts, and other drainage areas of debris to help reduce localized flooding. This outlook will be updated daily or sooner if needed. Stay up to date with the latest forecast information through weather.gov/hawaii, local media, social media, or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts.
About
Located deep within Haleakalā Crater on Maui, these three wilderness cabins provide unique backcountry lodging in one of Hawaii's most remote and sacred landscapes. Hōlua Cabin sits at 6,940 feet in native shrubland near Koʻolau Gap (3.7 miles from the nearest trailhead), Kapalaoa Cabin perches at 7,250 feet near Kaupō Gap (5.6 miles), and Palikū Cabin rests at 6,380 feet beneath lush rainforest cliffs on the crater's east end (9.3 miles). Each cabin accommodates up to 12 guests in padded bunks and features both wood-burning and propane stoves. The park provides three logs per reservation night in coded lockers. Campers must be prepared for extreme weather variability, with daytime temperatures ranging from 40-70°F and nighttime lows of 30-50°F. Winds can exceed 80 mph during storms. The hiking terrain includes loose cinders, steep grades, and significant elevation changes. Due to soft sandy trails, plan twice as long for the hike out as the hike in. These cabins offer unparalleled opportunities for stargazing, wildlife viewing (including nēnē), and experiencing profound natural quiet in a landscape held sacred by Native Hawaiian culture.
Directions
Cabins are accessed by trail only from the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park. From Kahului, take Hana Highway (SR36) for 2.0 miles, turn right onto Haleakalā Highway (SR37) for 7.8 miles, turn left onto SR377 for 6 miles, then left onto Crater Road. The park entrance is 9.9 miles up Crater Road. Trailheads are located at Halemauʻu (10 minutes from entrance) or Keoneheʻeheʻe/Sliding Sands (30 minutes from entrance, near the summit at 9,780 feet).
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (808) 572-4400 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Reservations | |
| NPS Campground Website |
Photos
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