Looking for free family fun near Indiana Dunes? Sunset Hill Farm County Park in Valparaiso is one of Northwest Indiana's favorite outdoor destinations, offering accessible playgrounds, scenic trails, camping, seasonal events, and free year-round admission. Local writer Erin Palanca shares why it's become one of her family's favorite places to explore.
As a toddler mama, it is a constant hunt to find the perfect place to spend our energy-filled days. The never-ending question - How can I keep the whole family actually entertained, out of the house, and not break the bank? It sounds impossible that a place could exist, but just wait until you meet Sunset Hill Farm County Park!
Open year-round with no entrance fee, this 235-acre county park beckons to the weary traveler. Near the Indiana Dunes area, only 15 minutes by car, and moments away from both Downtown Chesterton and Valparaiso.
The true beauty of this park shines not only through its stunning, cared-for grounds but also in its accessibility. An outdoor space that truly has a little magic for everyone in the family. Whether to explore the numerous well-kept and peaceful trails, watch for the abundant wildlife in the ponds, woods, and prairies, Romp with your furry friend, pop up your tent for a night under the stars, or enjoy picnic and playground time with the littles - the choices are endless.
Kids of all ages will enjoy their multiple brand-new playgrounds, including a toddler playset, swings, multiple slides, and so much more! Not only a ton of fun, but these playgrounds are also super accessible. Strollers, wheelchairs, and little legs have easy access to all the playgrounds and updated indoor restrooms from the main parking lot.
If your kiddo is ready to hit the trail, try out our favorite stroller-accessible trail 3, where you can stroll along with a special seasonal story set up by the local library system, or adventure deeper into the wooded trail 4 to search for the magical play fort and see-saw hidden amongst the trees.
If you find it nearly impossible to drag your kids away from this park at the end of the day, you wouldn't be the only one! Sunset Hill found the perfect solution with their fun-filled summer camps—Camp Funset! My kiddo and I also adore saying hello to the friendly farm animal friends and exploring the model railway garden on the weekends! This county park is abundantly rich in the memories of its former Dairy farm and Homestead days, showing off its old-time Barns, Tractors, tools, and even functional antique water pumps (seriously, your furry friends will love it!).
Despite its deep history, Sunset Hill is never stuck in the past—constantly moving into the future with shining new projects and delightful seasonal events. Bring the whole family out to enjoy Summer Nights at Sunset Hill, an evening full of free music, dancing, and vendors galore! Our older friends will be sure to enjoy the monthly Summer Biergartens: shimmering lights amongst the trees, a cool drink, and all the best street food. Even when the weather begins to drop, the fun continues at Sunset. Dress up the family and come grab a sweet treat at Sunset Hill's Trunk or Treat in Mid-October, or turn up the festive cheer with a leisurely drive through Sunset Hill's Winter Lights in November through January.
Truly one of our favorite destinations in the 219! We hope you get a chance to experience the magic of Sunset Hill County Farm Park this summer season.
