Pu'u Maka'ala Natural Area Reserve
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Pu'U Maka'Ala Natural Area Reserve is a protected area located on the island of Hawaii.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem, including an extensive network of lava tubes and caves, rare plants, and endangered wildlife.
There are several good reasons to visit Pu'U Maka'Ala Natural Area Reserve, including the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Hawaii's volcanic landscape, learn about the area's history and cultural significance, and observe various species of native plants and animals.
One of the main points of interest in the reserve is the extensive network of lava tubes and caves. Visitors can explore these natural formations on guided tours, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the geology of the area.
Other notable features of the reserve include the rare plants and wildlife that call it home, including the endangered Oahu tree snail and the native Hawaiian bat. The area also has significant cultural significance, with ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs and other cultural artifacts found throughout the reserve.
The best time of year to visit Pu'U Maka'Ala Natural Area Reserve is during the dry season, which typically lasts from May through September. During this time, visitors can enjoy clear skies and sunny weather, making it ideal for hiking, exploring, and wildlife observation. However, it is important to note that access to certain areas of the reserve may be limited during the wetter months due to safety concerns.
Overall, Pu'U Maka'Ala Natural Area Reserve is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Hawaii's volcanic landscape.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Namakani Paio
|
||
Namakani Paio - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
|
||
Kulanaokuaiki Campground
|
||
Nāpau Crater Camp Site
|