Indiana Dunes National Park hugs the southern shore of Lake Michigan for 15 miles and has a lot to offer. The national park’s 15,000 acres will enchant you whether you enjoy scouting for rare bird species or flying kites on the sandy beach. Hikers can explore rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers, and peaceful forests on 50 miles of trails.

Indiana Dunes National Park

 

Pinhook Bog in LaPorte County to the east; the Heron Rookery in Porter County, the park’s center; and the Calumet Prairie State Nature Preserve and the Hobart Prairie Grove, both in Lake County, at the park’s western end.

The summer climate at Indiana Dunes National Park is humid and hot. The plant hardiness zone at Indiana Dunes National Park is 6a, according to the US Department of Agriculture, with an average annual extreme minimum temperature of -9.4 °F (-23.0 °C).

What makes Indiana Dunes National Park special?

The Indiana Dunes are more than just warm sand, blue water, and miles of hiking trails. As of 2021, it is the fifth most biodiverse national park in the United States, trailing only Yosemite! The environment, ecology, and history of the Indiana Dunes are what truly distinguish it.

How long should you spend at Indiana Dunes National Park?

If you only have a couple of hours, stroll along the sandy shoreline for a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan and the national park. Hiking the West Beach Dune Succession Trail and boardwalk will teach you about the ever-changing dunes and the plants that live in them.

How do I spend a day at Indiana Dunes National Park?

• Start your day at the visitor center. There is currently no permanent national park sign.
• Hiking in the sand dunes A sand dune at sunset.
• Take a swim.
• Lakefront and Riverwalk in Portage.
• See the Century of Progress Homes for more information.
• Enjoy a beach sunset.

Can you swim at Indiana Dunes?

West Beach is the only one with lifeguards. Children in the water must be constantly monitored by parents and guardians. When there are high, breaking waves and rip currents, stay out of the water.

How do I get to the Indiana Dunes?

Indiana State Road 49 leads to the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. Take exit 31 north from Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90).

Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highways 12 and 20, Indiana State Road 49, and other state roads connect to Indiana Dunes National Park.

How much is parking at Indiana Dunes?

If you only have a day to visit the Indiana Dunes National Park, we recommend one of the 1-7 days passes. It costs $15 for an individual or $25 for a family to walk, boat, or bike into the park. Driving into the park costs $25 per car and $20 per motorcycle.

Can you drink alcohol at Indiana Dunes?

Alcohol is strictly prohibited at Indiana Dunes State Park, as well as at all youth camps and beaches. Daily visitors and campers on all DNR properties are reminded to drink responsibly.

Is Indiana Dunes crowded?

The larger beaches, such as Indiana Dunes State Park or West Beach at the National Park, have plenty of parking, but they can get crowded on summer weekends. Consider going early in the morning or on weekdays.