Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)

Heavy winds and rain all night at Paliku, followed by rain the second afternoon. For this reason we had to cut our trip short. Mt Haleakala services were just fine and we plan to return. However next time we'll stay in cabins. :)

Had an amazing time in the park.. got to meet some of the park workers and had some great conversations with them along the way.. It’s a def great workout and see multiple climates… can’t wait to come back and tent camp again

The reservation system is insufficient and there needs to be more people working up there. There needs to be a way that people can cancel their reservation and see new openings daily. The campsite was completely empty except for us but the online booking said it was completely full. I'm sure more people would like to enjoy camping if it was made available.

The location is spectacular. The campsite is clearly marked, well maintained, and level. Nighttime temperature was around 40 F in August.

My time at Haleakala national park was quite confusion to say the least. My stay started driving a brand new 1997 Toyota up this beautiful grand volcano. As we arrived I was flabbergasted to see there was no lighter attendant at the gate. As we descended the sliding sands trail the view made it all worth while. We arrived at the campsite early. People were amazed at our pure speed and agility. My travelling companion had pushed us so fast and strong. What a leader. As we arrived at the top I was disturbed to find out our headlight had been smashed in without a note of apology. Loved the trip

Paliku is a magical place. To people who have never been here, it can be very wet and cold. Remember to plan accordingly. The weather can change quickly and that is part of the magic. Clouds swirl over the cliff bringing rainbows. Keep an eye out for native birds like 'amakihi and i'iwi darting through the trees. Campsites are comfortable in the grasses. Hike down the Kaupo gap a little for some spectacular views of the native forest. Such a special place!

Beautiful spot. Great star gazing.

Haleakalā park is stunning. If you can, go!
I’m giving the park an over all experience of 3 out of 5 stars because of the following. When searching for tent permits I was lucky to get one several weeks in advance. And then later by chance I got another two dates, the day before as the late releases opened up. Each of these camping areas have a limit of 5 camp sights. Each night I was the only person utilizing any of the sights in the camp. Having some kind of confirmation process would allow more people to actually visit the back country. It seems like people reserve these sites and then rarely show up. The sunrise ticket release that happens 48 hours ahead of time sold out in less time than it took to add the tickets to the basket after waiting to the second for them to become available. That might just be due to demand but also seems crazy. The only other negative is the current condition of the Kalpo Gap trail. It is not in great condition once you pass the Paliku Cabin and once you leave the park and enter the Kalpo Ranch it becomes completely impassible in places, yet there is not readably available information / warning on the condition of the trail. I do understand that we are still in the throws of the pandemic but I would hope these things can be improved for future visitors.

The park service staff I met were incredibly friendly and helpful which was very much appreciated!