Explore the Dunes
Our stories are written across every mile of beach, forest, and meandering trail. Hear them in the haunting call of the loon and the snap of branches on the woodland floor. See them in the crisscross tracks of trains past and carved moldings of historic buildings. Feel it with every warm hello and sandy toe that greets you on our friendly shores. Want to know more about the Indiana Dunes? Just ask, we’re not shy.
Two Parks. One Destination.
When it comes to our newly minted national park, it’s a numbers game. It’s 15,000 acres of unadulterated adventure; 1,100 flowering plants; 350 species of birds; 50 miles of trails over dunes…
Serving up adventure since 1925. With over 2,000 acres of stunning terrain to explore, discover our Hoosier landscape from beaches and sand dunes to wetlands and ancient forests.
Getting Here
Before you lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes, you’re going to want to find us. Of course, finding us is easy. The hard part will be leaving.
Dunes 101
Join Ranger Matt in our Dunes 101 Series to explore everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes, including how to make the most out of your beach experience, where to camp, and the…
Find it in the friendly streets of small towns like Hebron, the charming downtown festivals and markets of Chesterton, the world-class arts scene of Valparaiso, and warm summer days spent on…
The best way to live like a local is to learn from a local. Our Visitor Center offers everything you need to learn more about the Indiana Dunes area with the added assistance of our super…
Outdoor adventure trifecta: Hiking, biking and paddling in Indiana Dunes
Moving to Chicago was our third move in 5 years. Raised on the West Coast and educated on the East…
Paul's Adventures in the Indiana Dunes
Hike, bike, paddle, bird, and fish at the Indiana Dunes! Local adventurer Paul Osborn can show you…
Tales from the Dunes
Read All StoriesDiscovering Snowshoeing in the Indiana Dunes National Park
- 3 minute read
Once the Indiana Dunes area is blanketed in a few inches of snow, you'll start to see people traversing the parks' trails on snowshoes. I've lived near the Indiana Dunes nearly…
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
- 5 minute read
It’s December, and I find myself singing along to all the holiday songs on the radio and playing in the stores. That song about walking in a winter wonderland sure is a fun one to…
Shopping for Last-Minute Gifts in the Indiana Dunes
- 4 minute read
If you still need to buy some last-minute gifts for your friends and family, consider shopping at one of our many local boutiques and gift shops. You'll support local businesses and find…
More Things to See & Do
Outdoor Adventures
Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from…
Dunes Deals
Shake off the sand south of the Indiana Dunes! Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of…
Indiana Dunes Shop
Don’t just experience the Indiana Dunes; take it home with you. Find your new favorite T-shirt, hoodie, or…
Pet Friendly
There’s a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in the state of Indiana…
Arts & Entertainment
It’s not all sand-fringed lakes and epic sunsets. Here, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene stoked by a…
Volunteer
Be the Change — Volunteer! Get more involved with the Indiana Dunes!
More Places to Stay
View All AccommodationsBed & Breakfasts
Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…
Hotels & Inns
A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…