About Hosmer Grove Campground — Haleakala NP
Watch sunrise from above the clouds at the summit of Maui's dormant volcano. Hosmer Grove Campground sits at
6,800 feet on Haleakala's slopes, offering one of the world's most surreal camping experiences — sleeping in a
Hawaiian rainforest and driving to a moonscape summit for the most extraordinary sunrise you'll ever witness.
Highlights
- Summit sunrise — ranked among the world's greatest natural spectacles
- Silversword plants found nowhere else on Earth
- Nene geese (Hawaii's state bird) in the park
- Bike tour descending from summit to coast
- Camping above the clouds — ocean views below
Directions & How to Get There
From Kahului, Maui: Take HI-36 E to HI-37 E, then HI-377 to Haleakala Highway (HI-378). Hosmer Grove is 1 mile
past the park entrance. The summit is 21 miles from the entrance — the road climbs from sea level to 10,023
feet.
Nearby Attractions
- Haleakala Summit (21 mi)
- Leleiwi Overlook (10 mi)
- Sliding Sands Trail into the crater
- Pipiwai Trail in Kipahulu District (2 hours away)
- Bike tours from summit (organized tours)
Insider Tips
- Sunrise reservation required (www.recreation.gov) — limited permits available months in advance
- Temperature at the summit can be below freezing with wind chill — bring warm layers even in summer
- The hosmer grove campground itself is quiet and beautiful for birding
- Combine with Kipahulu District and the Road to Hana for the ultimate Maui experience
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–September (driest)
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Easy access (paved road to summit)
What to Pack for Hawaii Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route