Au Sable East Group Backpacking Site

About

Au Sable East Group Backpacking Site is a designated backcountry group campsite within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, positioned 0.2 miles west of the historic Au Sable Light Station along the North Country Trail. The site accommodates groups of 7-20 people and is surrounded by coniferous forest with direct access to Lake Superior's shoreline and views of the Grand Sable Dunes. This is a primitive hike-to campsite accessible only on foot or by kayak. Facilities are minimal: one shared pit toilet, one shared fire ring, and a bear-proof food storage locker. There is no potable water; campers must filter or boil water from Lake Superior (minimum one minute boil or one-micron filter). All trash must be packed out. A backcountry permit is required year-round and must be reserved through Recreation.gov. Permits cost $5 per person per night plus a $15 non-refundable reservation fee. Check-in is at 1:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Maximum stay is three consecutive nights at any single location.

Directions

Access via the North Country Trail or by kayaking from Lake Superior. The site is located 0.2 miles west of the Au Sable Light Station. Winter visitors can snowshoe or ski to the site, as roads are not plowed.