Au Sable East Backcountry Campsites — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Au Sable East Campground is located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The campground is accessible via the North Country Trail, which passes directly through the area. Visitors can reach the campground by hiking from the Au Sable Lighthouse trailhead, which serves as a primary access point. The campground consists of two loops - a lower loop and an area with individual sites. Plan your visit with appropriate hiking gear as this is a backcountry camping experience rather than a drive-up campground.

Au Sable East Campground offers basic backcountry amenities. The facility includes vault toilets (particularly nice ones in the lower loop), shared fire rings, and communal bear boxes for food storage. The campground features both a group site and five to six individual campsites depending on the area. These sites are relatively close together with minimal visual barriers between them. There are no luxury amenities such as showers, electricity, or running water, making this a true backcountry camping experience.

Au Sable East Campground offers good access to water, with Lake Superior shoreline accessible from the camping area. While specific beach details aren't extensively documented, the campground's location within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore provides opportunities to enjoy the Lake Superior shoreline. The proximity to Au Sable Point and its lighthouse also offers scenic water views, particularly at sunset. Visitors should be prepared for typical Lake Superior conditions - beautiful but often chilly waters even in summer months.

Au Sable East Campground offers a more primitive, secluded backcountry experience compared to other options near Grand Marais. Unlike more developed campgrounds in the area, Au Sable East features basic amenities (vault toilets, shared fire rings, bear boxes) without electrical hookups or shower facilities. The campground's location on the North Country Trail and near Au Sable Lighthouse makes it ideal for hikers and those seeking natural attractions. During daytime hours, the area experiences moderate traffic due to the lighthouse, but generally provides a quieter experience than front-country campgrounds closer to Grand Marais or Munising. The campground is best suited for tent campers comfortable with backcountry camping rather than RV travelers.