Central UP
Best Camping Near Sable Falls
The easy-access east end of Pictured Rocks — via 168 wooden steps
About Sable Falls
Sable Falls drops in tiers through a narrow sandstone gorge at the east end of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just outside Grand Marais. A boardwalk and 168 steps descend from the parking area to the base — the descent is steep enough that most people turn around before completing it, which means the falls' base is quieter than the overlook above. The Log Slide Overlook nearby drops 500 feet to Lake Superior and lets you see the Au Sable Light Station. Both are in the same day-use area and pair naturally.
Campgrounds Near Sable Falls
Vetted campgrounds within the Sable Falls area — from state park sites to private full-hookup RV parks.
Grand Marais Campground
Pictured Rocks NL campground at the east end, near Sable Falls. Walk to the falls in 10 minutes.
Book on Recreation.gov →Lake Superior State Forest Campground — Grand Marais
Budget rustic option in Grand Marais. Within range of Sable Falls and Log Slide.
Book on Hipcamp →Trails Near Sable Falls
Log Slide Overlook Trail
Short walk to the top of a 500-foot sand dune dropping to Lake Superior. The Au Sable Light Station is visible below.
Grand Sable Dunes — Lakeshore Trail East
Eastern section of the Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Trail through the Grand Sable Dunes and past the falls.
Sable Falls Trail
168 wooden steps descend to the base of Sable Falls. Steep but short. The gorge at the bottom is worth it.
Gear up for the trail
Don't forget the essentials
Bear spray, trekking poles, headlamp, and moisture-wicking layers — must-haves for UP trails. Quick links to Amazon for the most-searched UP camping gear.
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