Michigan / Alger County / Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Federal Unit)

Grand Sable Lake Boat-in Site

Open — Open year-round for boat-in camping with required advance reservations and permits through Recreation.gov. Vault toilet and facilities are seasonal. Parking available at the boat launch only.

About

Grand Sable Lake Boat-In Site offers a unique backcountry camping experience on the eastern end of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This single primitive campsite is accessible only by boat, requiring campers to launch from the Grand Sable Lake boat launch and paddle approximately half a mile south along the east shore. The site is perfectly suited for kayakers and canoers looking for solitude and a true wilderness experience. The campsite accommodates up to 6 people with a maximum of 2 tents or hammocks. Facilities include one metal fire ring, a vault toilet, and a food storage locker to protect from wildlife. Water can be obtained from Grand Sable Lake but must be filtered or treated as it is not potable. All trash must be packed out, and campers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles. This boat-in site is part of the Pictured Rocks backcountry camping system and requires a reservation and permit year-round. The $5 per person, per night camping fee plus a $15 non-refundable reservation fee applies. Permits must be printed and visibly secured to the tent at the campsite. Maximum stay is 3 consecutive nights at this specific campground, with a total limit of 14 days per calendar year within the entire lakeshore. Fire must be contained in the provided metal ring and completely extinguished before leaving the site.

Directions

Launch at Grand Sable Lake boat launch. Paddle half a mile south along the east shore of Grand Sable Lake. The campsite is located on the eastern shore. Parking for vehicles is available at the boat launch only.

Nearby Campgrounds