Molokai Camping at Campgrounds / Campsites

Camping on Molokai offers a remote, nature-immersive experience at locations like Pala'au State Park, Waikolu Forest Reserve, One Alii Beach Park, and Papohaku Beach Park. Permits are required for both state and county campsites. Facilities range from basic restrooms to sheltered pavilions, and access to some locations requires a 4WD vehicle.

Molokai Camping

With its pristine landscapes and uninhabited beaches, the "Most Hawaiian Isle” of Molokai is a treat for adventurers. Its natural environment is the perfect backdrop to pitching a tent and spending the night beneath a blanket of stars.

If you plan to camp on Molokai, no matter if at a state or county site, you will need to obtain a camping permit in advance.

Camping at a Hawaii state park on Molokai

There is just one state park campsite on Molokai, located at Palaau State Park overlooking the Kalaupapa Peninsula, where you can pitch a tent. There are no other shelters or cabins here. Restrooms are available.

Camping is also possible at the Waikolu State Forest Reserve, located near the center of the island. This campsite is only accessible by 4WD vehicle. There is a sheltered pavilion with an outdoor picnic table and toilet facility.


All state camping areas in Hawaii are administered by the Hawaii DLNR, State Parks. They prefer that all reservations are made on their online portal, which is located at: www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/molokai (see the button “Online Reservations” in the top left corner on their website). You can make your reservation up to one year in advance.

Here is an overview of state campsite fees:

Hawaii residents: $12 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $2 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $20/night.
Non-residents: $18 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $3 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $30/night.
*Children 2 and under free.


Camping at county campsites on Molokai

There are two county campsites on Molokai – One Alii Beach Park and Papohaku Beach Park. To get a camping permit for one of the county campsites, contact the County of Maui Parks & Recreation. On their website you can download and print a camping permit request form and mail it in. The form is located here: www.co.maui.hi.us/index.aspx?NID=409

Frequently Asked Questions about Camping on Molokai

Where can I camp on Molokai?

You can camp at Pala'au State Park, Waikolu State Forest Reserve, Papohaku Beach Park, and One Alii Beach Park with a valid permit.

📄Do I need a permit to camp?

Yes. Both state and county campsites require permits. State park permits are available at hawaiistateparks.org, and county permits are available through Maui County's website.

🚗Do I need a 4WD vehicle for any sites?

Yes, Waikolu State Forest Reserve is only accessible by 4WD vehicle due to rugged terrain.

💰How much does it cost to camp?

State fees range from $12–$20 per night for residents and $18–$30 per night for non-residents. Children under 2 are free.