Part of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Halape Shelter sits on a remote coastal site accessible only by an 8-11 mile hike across volcanic terrain. The National Park Service manages this dispersed backcountry campground, where permits must be obtained in person from the park's backcountry office on a first-come, first-served basis. Multiple trail routes lead to the site, with hikers choosing paths based on elevation gain and knee impact when carrying full packs.
The campground provides access to an isolated black sand beach where campers can collect opihi from the rocks or try fishing in coastal waters. A freshwater source typically flows at the site, though the backcountry office advises checking current water availability when obtaining permits. Campers should bring water filtration or purification tablets. Jordan B. spent three nights here without seeing another person, noting "the highlight of the trip was harvesting mussels off the rocks, climbing up the coconut palms to get fruit, and cooking up the mussels in coconut water."
Park rangers brief visitors on the area's earthquake and tsunami history during permit pickup. The nearby Keauhou Backcountry Campsite — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park offers another backcountry option for experienced hikers. This site works best for self-sufficient backpackers comfortable with wilderness camping and long-distance hiking on challenging volcanic terrain.
Location
Dispersed CampingHalape Shelter — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is located in Hawaii
Coordinates
19.27499376 N
155.25640875 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Halape Shelter — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park needs a permit.
