Hawaii / Maui County / Haleakalā National Park / Haleakalā Wilderness

Wilderness Tent Sites

Open — Open year-round. Reservations required through Recreation.gov. No water available at Hōlua area. Limited to 3 nights total for all park areas within a 30-day period.

About

Wilderness Tent Sites at Haleakalā National Park offers backcountry camping at two remote locations within the ancient volcanic crater: Hōlua and Palikū. Both sites are accessible only by trail from either the Halemauʻu Trailhead (approximately 10 minutes from the entrance) or the Keoneheʻeheʻe Trailhead (approximately 30 minutes from the entrance). The hikes are strenuous and require proper preparation. Located inside the crater, these wilderness tent sites offer an immersive backcountry experience with designated tent spots marked by brown stakes and directional arrows. The environment is challenging, with no shade on the crater floor and weather that can change rapidly and dramatically. Daytime temperatures range from 40-70°F, while nighttime temperatures drop to 30-50°F. During storms, winds can exceed 80 mph with temperatures dropping well below freezing. There is no potable water available at these sites, and vault toilets are provided year-round. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for extreme conditions. All wilderness tent sites require advance reservations through Recreation.gov, with a total of 10 sites available across both locations. Overnight stays are limited to three nights total for all park areas within a 30-day period. Open fires are prohibited in the wilderness area, so campers must bring backpacking stoves for meal preparation. A separate park entrance pass is required and not included with the campsite reservation.

Directions

Palikū and Hōlua Wilderness tent sites can be accessed from the Halemauʻu Trailhead (about 10 minutes from the entrance) or the Keoneheʻeheʻe Trailhead (about 30 minutes from the entrance).

Nearby Campgrounds