Camping in Kipahulu

Haleakala National Park

A few weeks ago I had the chance to take a camping trip in Kipahulu. About 12 miles past the small town of Hana, the Kipahulu campsite is part of Haleakala National Park.

Situated on the Eastern tip of Maui, Kipahulu sits “behind” Haleakala and has a beautiful view of the Alenuihaha Channel, which runs between Hawaii Island and Maui. At night you can see lights from Hawaii Island in the distance. And the stars – oh, I wish I could have taken some pictures of those!

We had a terrific campsite set up right above the ocean.  I loved being able to hear the waves crashing against the rocks all night long.

Our campsite was about 20 yards from the ocean.

In the Morning…

At about 6:30am I peeked outside to see this! I just loved watching the sky change colors moment by moment.  While the ocean was calm in the early hours, I could feel the energy of the channel moving out there, and it was not as placid as a South-side beach would be at dawn.

Oheo Gulch

Oheo Gulch is also part of the national park, and a popular place for swimming.  There is a visitors’ center here, but there are no shops or vendors anywhere near the park. It makes it a very quiet, peaceful place.

Oheo Gulch

Oheo Gulch, where the river runs out to meet the ocean.

 

A Few New Pieces

After our visit I was inspired to create a few new pieces to remember this time.

 

 

As part of the national park there is no camping fee except for the regular park entrance fee of $10 per car, and you are permitted to stay up to three days. Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis. There are pit toilets but no running water, so be sure to bring plenty of your own.

Kipahulu is a very special place, if you haven’t already, I hope you get to visit one day.