Can you camp in Hawaii?

Yes. Hawaii offers camping in state parks, national parks, and county beach parks on multiple islands. Campgrounds range from basic tent sites to developed campsites with restrooms and showers.

Do you need a camping permit in Hawaii?

Yes. Most campgrounds in Hawaii require a permit, which can be obtained through the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the county parks department, or the National Park Service depending on the location. Permits should be obtained in advance.

What are the best campgrounds in Hawaii?

Top campgrounds include Hosmer Grove and Kipahulu in Haleakala National Park on Maui, and Namakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki in Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Each offers unique experiences from cloud forests to volcanic landscapes.

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Top Campgrounds in Hawaii

Popular Camping in Hawaii

03-23-2026

John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

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Popular Camping in Hawaii

Hawaii is incredible no matter how you choose to experience it, whether from a hotel or a tent.

However, hotel trip after hotel trip gets old fast. Hotels begin blending together and create a disconnect from the nature you came to experience in Hawaii. At times when you feel like this, taking to a tent is your best option; but it can be hard to know where to go.

Camping on Maui

Backcountry Lava Camping at Haleakala National Park (Holua Dispersed)

This is dispersed camping, which means there is no explicit “campsite”. Rather, you get to pitch your tent in a place that you see fit. Simply get a permit, pack your gear, and camp. For those seeking a true primitive experience in Hawaii’s lava backcountry, Maui’s Haleakala National Park is a must-see destination.

Shangri-La Above the Clouds Camping at Hosmer Grove Campground (Haleakala National Park)

Hawaii is known for its breathtaking views. What better way to take them in than from your tent above the clouds? That’s just what you can expect from the Hosmer Grove Campground, located in Maui’s Haleakala National Park. Camping here is guaranteed to be both a unique way to experience Hawaii and the experience of a lifetime.

Green on Black Lava Rock Views of the Sea at Waianapanapa State Park

Experiencing Hawaii is by no means a single-destination task. There are so many different types of terrain and views that in order to get the complete Hawaii experience you need to travel and see the different sites. One visually stunning experience is camping by the ocean on a bed of black lava rock covered by bright green vegetation. The contrast of green plants on black rock on blue ocean is unforgettable.

Camping on the Big Island

Black Sands Beach Camping at Punaluu Beach Park

When people picture a beach, they think tan sand and blue sea. But not all sand is tan. Some sand, volcanic sand to be specific, can be black. Imagine the surreal experience of camping on a black beach overlooking the blue sea; it’s not something you’d soon forget. You may be noticing a theme: Hawaii’s camping opportunities are unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences... and Punaluu Beach Park is no exception.

Published by: John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

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