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.

Aerial view of the shoreline. The water is a deep blue. The sand changes to beach grass and eventually trees.

Indiana Dunes National Park

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…

A wooden staircase leading down towards the water

Indiana Dunes State Park

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…

Explore Our Communities

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…

Visitor Center

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…

Beaches a month ago

A stone and wooden pavilion with a fireplace sites in the middle of yellow flowers and greenery.

Accessible Adventures in the Indiana Dunes

5 minute read

Accessible Adventures in the Indiana Dunes Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to hike, bird, paddle, or just wander and take in the…

Birding 2 months ago

Getting Warmed Up with the Rough-legged Hawk

6 minute read

My ninety-year-old neighbor used to tell me that he was going out fishing… not catching, but fishing. It’s about the experience, he’d tell me. And that is how it is with…

Itineraries 2 months ago

A square plate sits on a table with ribs, cross-cut potatoes, and pancakes. A beer, silverware, and salt and pepper shakers sit on the table.

Unique Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day in the Indiana Dunes Area

3 minute read

It’s not that we don’t love a day about love; it’s just that Valentine’s Day can be...typical. Roses and fancy dinners, champagne, and sunsets—enough to make…