Au Sable East Group Backpacking Site
Open year-round with advance backcountry permit required via Recreation.gov. Permits operate on a 6-month rolling window. Note: The Munising Falls Trail is closed due to washout from April 2026 heavy rainfall, but this does not affect access to Au Sable Point campgrounds.
Munising Falls Trail Closed Until Further Notice
The Munising Falls Trail within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is closed until further notice. Approximately 75-feet of the paved trail was washed out April 28th from recent heavy rainfall and seasonal snow melt.
Special Weather Statement issued May 22 at 3:49AM EDT by NWS Marquette MI
Gusty southeast winds as high as 20 to locally 25 mph, combined with dry conditions will lead to elevated wildfire potential this afternoon across most of Upper Michigan away from the shorelines of the Great Lakes. Avoid outdoor burning today. Immediately report any wildfires to local emergency services by calling 911. Burn restrictions remain in effect. For complete details, visit www.dnr.state.mi.us/burnpermits, or by calling 866-922-2876.
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.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $5 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 387-3700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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