Backcountry Camping at Pictured Rocks

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore's backcountry offers opportunities for solitude, inspiration, physical challenge, and renewal. The nearly 100 miles of park trails includes the North Country National Scenic Trail which runs 42 miles through the length of the park, adjacent to Lake Superior. Most of the park's 13 designated backpacking camping areas are along this trail. These small backcountry campgrounds have 3 to 6 individual sites. There are also 8 group backpacking sites throughout the park. All of these sites are only accessible to campers by foot and some by boat. 

In addition, there is one boat-in-only site, at Grand Sable Lake on the park's east end. Campers must supply their own boat. Boats are launched at the Grand Sable Lake boat ramp. 

THINGS TO KNOW

Backcountry campers must stay in specific backcountry campgrounds and numbered site as noted on their permit. Campgrounds are located at two to five mile intervals along the trail. Each campground has a specific capacity; individual campsites within each backcountry campground are identified by a numbered post.

There are individual campsites and group campsites. Individual campsites are available for groups of 1-6 people (2 tents or hammocks maximum). Groups of 7-20 people (10 tents or hammocks maximum) must camp in designated group sites. Maximum three consecutive day stay at any backcountry campground. No persons or groups are permitted to camp longer than 14 days per calendar year in the lakeshore.

Hammocks are allowed in place of a tent, but both tents and hammocks must stay within 15 feet of the numbered post at the campsite. Keep in mind that trees are not available at all sites. Beach camping is prohibited.

No pets allowed. No bikes or wheeled or motorized vehicles allowed on trails. 

For more information about backcountry camping and how to make a reservation, go to the park's Backcountry Camping planning page.

Details

Duration

1-14 Days

Activity

Backcountry Camping

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed at any backcountry camping site at Pictured Rocks.

Activity Fee

Yes

In addition to the park entrance fee, there is a $5 fee per person per night for backcountry camping. There is also a non-refundable fee for each backcountry permit reservation. Reservations must be made through Recreation.gov.  Park entrance fees can also be paid in advance through Recreation.gov.

Reservations

Yes

All backcountry camping requires a permit, which can be reserved online at Recreation.gov. Backcountry camping is allowed year-round. Backcountry permit reservations for 2023 will be open on January 1, 2023.

Accessibility Information

Backcountry trails to backcountry camping areas are generally not accessible. They feature slopes, rocky and uneven surfaces, sand, mud, and roots.