INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK
Let's head for the beach! You'll love the sights and sounds of the three miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan. A beautiful nature center offers details of the history of the dunes area and a variety of special programming year-round. The sand dunes will astound you, as will the vast variety of desert plants, giant wood ferns and white pines.
State park permits can be purchased at any of the state park property locations across Indiana. State park permits can also be ordered online by visiting the
INDINIA ENTRANCE FEE web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Picnickingyes
Picnic Sheltersyes
Swimming Beach, feetGreat Lake
Bike Trailsyes
Nature Centeryes
Nature Programsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sites, #286
Flush Toiletsyes
Dumpstationyes
Showersyes
Camp Commissaryyes
Youth Group Campyes
WinterCross-Country Skiingyes
Activitiesyes
We are now taking reservations for the 140 campsites (all with 50 amp electrical service) in its completely reconstructed campground. Two new modern restroom/showerhouses are heated to lengthen the comfortable camping season. A new shelter for programs has been added to the area.
* Electric - 140 (all 50 amp service) * Youth Tent Area
1. Indiana Dunes State Park offers a 3-mile beach along Lake Michigan for swimming.
2. Lifeguards are on duty during summer months at the designated swim area.
3. Swimming is allowed from sunrise to sunset, but not permitted beyond buoyed areas due to strong currents and drop-offs.
4. The park also features a bathhouse with restrooms and showers near the beach for swimmers' convenience.
5. Beach wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge, making it accessible for all visitors who wish to swim or sunbathe.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Lake Michigan's southern shore is accessible from the beach area, allowing for motorized and non-motorized watercraft use. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on the lake as well. However, there aren't any boat rental services within the park itself; guests must bring their own equipment or rent it from nearby providers outside of the park boundaries.
Enjoy fishing at this natural oasis, with options for both lake and river angling. Species include trout, salmon, bass and perch. The park's 3-mile coastline offers ample opportunities for surf casting or fly-fishing in Lake Michigan. Inland waters are home to catfish and bluegill as well as largemouth bass.
Remember that a valid Indiana Fishing License is required before you cast your line!
Indiana Dunes State Park is located near Chesterton, Gary and Hobart
Indiana Dunes State Park offers picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters. Some sites offer beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
Biking is allowed on public roads and parking lots. Off-road biking isn't permitted due to potential environmental damage.
The Calumet Bike Trail offers a 9-mile route, but it's not paved so prepare for rough terrain.
Keep in mind that the trail can be challenging with sandy patches making cycling difficult at times.
Cyclists should always wear helmets and follow safety guidelines while exploring this beautiful natural area of Indiana.
Be aware that some areas may have heavy pedestrian traffic; exercise caution when sharing paths or trails.
Remember, respect wildlife by keeping your distance - don't disturb animals you encounter during your ride.
The park offers over 350 bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. It hosts annual Birding Festivals. The Wilson Shelter and the Beach Pavilion areas are popular spots for viewing migratory birds. Visitors can also explore three miles of trails to spot various woodland birds.
* Nature Center/Interpretive Naturalist Services (hours : 9:30am - 4:30pm local time) * Picnicking/Shelters (Shelter Reservations) * Access to Calumet Trail (9 miles of hiking) * Cross-country Skiing (trails available, no ski rental) * Fishing (Smelt Only) * Hiking Trails * Swimming / Beach (Policy)