Hawaii Public Land Access

Hawaii Public Land Access

State parks generally free but camping requires permits $12-30/night. Kalalau Trail permits limited.

State parks generally free entry but some require permits. Camping requires permits ($12-30/night). DLNR manages forest reserves. Na Ala Hele trail system. Diamond Head requires reservations. Haleakala summit reservations required. Kalalau Trail requires permits (limited availability). Beach access guaranteed below high water mark. Some areas have Hawaiian cultural restrictions.

Public Land Access Guide

Hawaii: BLM, National Forest, and state lands generally open for recreation. Rules vary by land type. Check for closures and restrictions.

PUBLIC LAND ACCESS

TYPES OF PUBLIC LAND

BLM (Bureau of Land Management)
• Mostly western states
• Generally open for recreation
• Dispersed camping allowed
• OHV may need designated routes
• Shooting often allowed (check local)

National Forests (USFS)
• Throughout the country
• Open for hiking, camping, hunting
• Motorized use on designated routes
• Some areas need permits
• Wilderness areas more restricted

National Parks (NPS)
• Most restrictive
• Entrance fees
• Stay on trails
• No foraging, detecting, etc.
• Camping in designated areas only

State Parks
• Rules vary by state
• Usually require fees
• Camping in designated areas
• Limited activities

State Trust Land
• Some states require permit
• Varies greatly by state
• May be leased to private parties

FINDING PUBLIC LAND
• OnX Maps (subscription)
• CalTopo (free/paid)
• Avenza Maps
• USGS Topo maps
• Official agency maps

COMMON RULES (FEDERAL LAND)
• Pack out all trash
• Camp 200ft from water
• Proper human waste disposal
• Respect closures
• Permit may be needed
• Fire restrictions apply

VEHICLE ACCESS
• Stay on designated roads
• Check Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM)
• Seasonal closures common
• 4WD may be required
• No cross-country travel