Hawaiʻi State Parks wilderness guide
State Parks · HI

Hawaiʻi State Parks

Hawaiʻi State Parks offer a diverse array of outdoor experiences across the Hawaiian Islands, from lush rainforests and volcanic craters to historic sites and pristine beaches.

State Parks30,0004+ Trails
DesignationState Parks
Total Wilderness Area30,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Hawaiʻi State Parks

Hawaiʻi State Parks offer a diverse array of outdoor experiences across the Hawaiian Islands, from lush rainforests and volcanic craters to historic sites and pristine beaches.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hawaiʻi State Parks encompass approximately 50 parks spread across the Hawaiian Islands, each with unique geography, ecology, and cultural significance. From the volcanic landscapes of Kīlauea on the Big Island to the rugged sea cliffs of Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kauaʻi, these parks showcase Hawaiʻi's dynamic environmental diversity. They protect native ecosystems, providing vital habitat for rare and endangered species such as the nēnē or Hawaiian goose, and offering key recreational opportunities like hiking, camping, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. Historic sites like ʻIolani Palace in Oʻahu tell the story of Hawaiʻi's royal past, while others like the Waimea Canyon rival the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Visitor appeal is boosted by the parks' varied landscapes, warm climate, and rich natural beauty, making them ideal for exploration and cultural immersion.

Field Guide · State Parks
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hawaiʻi State Parks

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Nā Pali Coast with its scenic sea cliffs and hiking trails.✦ Haleakalā Crater offers stunning sunrise views and unique ecosystems.✦ Waimoku Falls, a spectacular 400-foot waterfall on the Pipiwai Trail.✦ Historic ʻIolani Palace, showcasing the royal heritage of Hawaii.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hawaiʻi State Parks

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
Park Recreation

Snorkeling

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
Park Recreation

Cultural Tours

Available in Hawaiʻi State Parks
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hawaiʻi State Parks.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Some parks require entrance fees or permits, especially for camping and hiking popular trails.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hawaiʻi State Parks

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hawaiʻi State Parks

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Maui, Hawaii
⌖ 0.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maui, Hawaii

Maui offers a breathtaking mix of tropical adventure, from snorkeling vibrant reefs to hiking lush trails. Enjoy whale watching and surfing on this diverse island paradise known for its natural beauty.

Kula, Hawaii
⌖ 0.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kula, Hawaii

Kula is an outdoor adventurer's paradise in Maui’s upcountry, with spectacular biking routes, serene trails, and stargazing atop Haleakalā Crater. Adventure awaits under blue skies and among native flora.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Makawao, Hawaii
⌖ 4.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Makawao, Hawaii

Makawao is a rustic Hawaiian town offering outdoor adventures on the slopes of Haleakalā, from hiking and horseback riding to surfing and cultural tours. Experience Hawaiian culture and nature in this off-the-beaten-path gem.

Paia, Hawaii
⌖ 7.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paia, Hawaii

Paia is a vibrant surf town on Maui’s north shore, perfect for surfing, windsurfing, hiking, and paddling. Enjoy ocean adventures and scenic trails with a laid-back island vibe just minutes from world-class beaches.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Paʻaʻa, Hawaii
⌖ 7.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paʻaʻa, Hawaii

Paʻaʻa is a peaceful Hawaiian coastal town known for quiet beaches, sheltered waters ideal for paddling and snorkeling, and access to beautiful hikes along the Hana Highway. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic island nature experiences.

Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Haiku, Hawaii
⌖ 8.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Haiku, Hawaii

Haiku, Hawaii, is a tranquil town on Maui’s lush north shore known for rainforest hikes, waterfall visits, and ocean paddling. Ideal for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet base to explore diverse landscapes and authentic island culture.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hawaiʻi State Parks

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Upcountry Day Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Maui, Hawaii
PrivateADV Bookable

Upcountry Day Tour

Discover Maui’s highlands with a curated day tour through lush farms, stunning vineyards, and charming towns. Uncover hidden gems and savor local flavors on this personalized adventure with Sandy Cheeks Tours.

PrivateCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Oahu to Kahului: Road to Hana Adventure Tour (M2-1D)
ADVEXPEDITION
Honolulu, Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Oahu to Kahului: Road to Hana Adventure Tour (M2-1D)

Take a one-day island-hop from Oahu to Maui’s Road to Hana with Polynesian Adventure Activities. Enjoy iconic stops, a waterfall swim, and farm-fresh lunch—all hassle-free.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Family Photography Sessions
ADVEXPEDITION
Maui, HI
Photography TourADV Bookable

Family Photography Sessions

Capture lasting memories with personalized family or couple photo sessions offered by InstaMauiMatt INC. Perfectly timed and set against Maui’s breathtaking beachscapes, these sessions promise beautiful images that celebrate your special moments.

Photography TourCouple & Family PhotosCertified Outfitter
From$1,200
Book Trip
Oahu to Kahului: Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites (M1-1D)
ADVEXPEDITION
Maui, Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Oahu to Kahului: Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites (M1-1D)

Experience the best of Maui on a day trip from Oahu with Polynesian Adventure Activities featuring Haleakala’s summit, Iao Valley’s lush rainforest, and an authentic lunch stop. This all-inclusive tour blends nature, history, and local flavors into one unforgettable adventure.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Halfway to Hana Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Haiku, Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Halfway to Hana Tour

Journey halfway along Maui’s legendary Road to Hana with Hana Tours of Maui, discovering hidden waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush rainforests. This guided tour offers breathtaking views and local insight, perfect for adventurers of all ages.

Bus TourRoad to Hana Adventure Tour (Halfway) • All Ages • Epic Views, Expert Guides, Unforgettable JourneyCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites (M1)
ADVEXPEDITION
Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites (M1)

Journey to Maui’s volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and local flavors with Polynesian Adventure Activities. Discover rare wildlife, rich history, and farm-to-table tastes on this all-day immersive tour.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Haleakala Sunset Tour - A Spectacular Show (M5)
ADVEXPEDITION
Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Haleakala Sunset Tour - A Spectacular Show (M5)

Ascend 9,740 feet with Polynesian Adventure Activities to catch Maui's stunning Haleakala sunset. Enjoy scenic Upcountry drives, cultural sites, and a "To Go" dinner before witnessing a sunset that redefines twilight.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip