Where Can You Camp for Free in Maui?

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Are you planning a trip to Maui and looking for a free camping spot? You’re in luck! Maui has a number of beautiful and secluded camping spots that won’t cost you a dime. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite free camping spots on Maui, as well as tips for planning your trip.

So whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and stargaze or a basecamp for exploring the island, read on for some great options for free camping in Maui!

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Campground Location Amenities
Haleakala National Park Upcountry Maui Camping, hiking, stargazing
Wailea Campground South Maui Camping, swimming, snorkeling
Hana Highway Campground East Maui Camping, hiking, waterfalls

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Maui is a beautiful island with a variety of camping options, from luxurious resorts to rustic campgrounds. If you’re looking for a free camping experience, there are a few state parks and county parks where you can pitch a tent without spending a dime.

In this article, we’ll share the best free camping spots on Maui, including information on amenities, location, and how to get there. We’ll also provide tips for planning your trip, such as what to pack and what to expect.

State Parks

The following state parks offer free camping on Maui:

  • Haleakala National Park
  • Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park
  • Wailea Coastal Dunes Preserve
  • Hana Forest Reserve

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is home to the dormant Haleakala volcano, which rises to 10,023 feet above sea level. The park is located in the eastern part of Maui and offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.

There are two campgrounds in Haleakala National Park: Hosmer Grove and Kalahaku. Hosmer Grove is located at 7,000 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of the Haleakala caldera. Kalahaku is located at 5,000 feet above sea level and is closer to the park entrance.

Both campgrounds have restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park

The Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park is located on the eastern side of Maui and is home to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. The park is known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches.

There are two campgrounds in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park: Kipahulu and Oheo Gulch. Kipahulu is located near the park entrance and offers stunning views of the ocean. Oheo Gulch is located in the heart of the park and is home to several waterfalls.

Both campgrounds have restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

Wailea Coastal Dunes Preserve

The Wailea Coastal Dunes Preserve is located on the west coast of Maui and is home to a variety of plants and animals. The preserve is also a popular spot for birdwatching.

There is one campground in the Wailea Coastal Dunes Preserve: Wailea Beach Campground. The campground is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean.

The campground has restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

Hana Forest Reserve

The Hana Forest Reserve is located on the east coast of Maui and is home to a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. The reserve is also a popular spot for birdwatching.

There is one campground in the Hana Forest Reserve: Kipahulu Campground. The campground is located near the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park and offers stunning views of the ocean.

The campground has restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

County Parks

The following county parks offer free camping on Maui:

  • Keokea Beach Park
  • Paia Bay Beach Park
  • Hookipa Beach Park
  • La Perouse Bay State Park

Keokea Beach Park

Keokea Beach Park is located on the north shore of Maui and is home to a beautiful white-sand beach. The park is also a popular spot for surfing and swimming.

There is one campground in Keokea Beach Park: Keokea Beach Campground. The campground is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean.

The campground has restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

Paia Bay Beach Park

Paia Bay Beach Park is located on the north shore of Maui and is home to a beautiful white-sand beach. The park is also a popular spot for surfing and swimming.

There is one campground in Paia Bay Beach Park: Paia Bay Campground. The campground is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean.

The campground has restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However, there are no showers or electricity.

Hookipa Beach Park

Hookipa Beach Park is located on the north shore of Maui and is home to a world-renowned surfing spot. The park is also a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

There is one campground in Hookipa Beach Park: Hookipa Beach Campground. The campground is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean.

The campground has restrooms, water, and picnic tables. However,

3. BLM Lands

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages over 1.5 million acres of land in Maui, including some of the most beautiful and remote camping spots on the island. BLM land is open to camping for free, but there are a few rules and regulations to keep in mind.

  • Camping is allowed on BLM land for up to 14 days at a time.
  • Campsites must be at least 100 feet from roads, trails, and water sources.
  • Campfires are allowed, but must be contained in a fire ring.
  • Leave no trace – pack out all of your trash and belongings when you leave.

Here are some of the best BLM campgrounds in Maui:

  • Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand on the west coast of Maui. The BLM campground here is located just behind the beach, and offers stunning views of the ocean. The campground has 30 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is also a shared bathroom and shower.

  • Puu Kekaa State Park

Puu Kekaa State Park is located on the eastern side of Maui. The BLM campground here is located at the summit of Puu Kekaa, which offers panoramic views of the island. The campground has 10 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is also a shared bathroom and shower.

  • Hookipa Beach Park

Hookipa Beach Park is located on the north shore of Maui. The BLM campground here is located just behind the beach, and offers stunning views of the ocean. The campground has 20 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is also a shared bathroom and shower.

  • Lahaina Pali Lookout

Lahaina Pali Lookout is located on the west coast of Maui. The BLM campground here is located at the top of Lahaina Pali, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the West Maui Mountains. The campground has 10 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is also a shared bathroom and shower.

4. Other Options

In addition to BLM lands, there are also a number of other places where you can camp for free in Maui. Here are a few options:

  • Camping on the beach

There are a number of beaches in Maui where you can camp for free. Just be sure to check with the local authorities to make sure that camping is allowed. Some popular beach camping spots include Waianapanapa State Park, Hanakapiai Beach, and Polipoli Beach.

  • Camping in the desert

The Haleakala National Park has a number of campgrounds where you can camp for free. These campgrounds are located in the desert, and offer stunning views of the Haleakala Crater.

  • Camping in the mountains

The West Maui Mountains offer a number of hiking trails, and there are a number of places where you can camp for free. Just be sure to check with the local authorities to make sure that camping is allowed.

  • Camping in the forest

The Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park has a number of campgrounds where you can camp for free. These campgrounds are located in the forest, and offer stunning views of the Kipahulu District.

Maui is a beautiful island with a variety of camping options, from free BLM lands to paid campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a basecamp for exploring the island, you’re sure to find the perfect camping spot in Maui.

Where Can You Camp For Free In Maui?

  • Haleakala National Park offers backcountry camping opportunities at designated sites within the park. Permits are required and can be obtained online or at the park entrance.
  • Keokea Beach Park has a small number of free campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are located near the beach and restrooms.
  • Polipoli State Park has a number of free campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are located in a forested area and offer stunning views of the West Maui Mountains.
  • Wainapanapa State Park has a number of free campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are located near the ocean and offer stunning views of the coastline.
  • Hna Highway has a number of pull-outs and turnouts where you can camp for free. Be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect private property.

What are the rules for camping in Maui?

  • All campers must have a permit, regardless of where they are camping. Permits can be obtained online or at the park entrance.
  • Campfires are only allowed in designated areas.
  • Be sure to pack out all of your trash and leave no trace.
  • Respect private property and do not trespass.

What are the best times to camp in Maui?

The best time to camp in Maui is during the winter months, from November to April. This is when the weather is cooler and there is less rain.

What should I bring when camping in Maui?

When packing for a camping trip in Maui, be sure to bring the following items:

  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Headlamp
  • Water bottle
  • Food
  • Stove
  • Camp chairs
  • Camp table
  • Firewood
  • First aid kit
  • Toilet paper
  • Trash bags
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent

Where can I find more information about camping in Maui?

For more information about camping in Maui, you can visit the following websites:

  • [Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation](https://www.mauicounty.gov/parks/)
  • [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm)
  • [Hawaii State Parks](https://www.hawaiistateparks.org/)

    there are many great places to camp for free on Maui. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot in the rainforest or a beachfront campsite, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs. Just remember to pack all of your gear and be respectful of the environment. By following these tips, you can enjoy a hassle-free and unforgettable camping experience on Maui.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • There are many different types of free campsites on Maui, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
  • When choosing a campsite, it’s important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and accessibility.
  • It’s also important to be respectful of the environment and pack out all of your trash.
  • By following these tips, you can enjoy a hassle-free and unforgettable camping experience on Maui.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.