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

The Indiana Dunes National Park has 15,000 acres of adventure; 1,100 flowering plants; 350 species of birds; 50 miles of trails over dunes, bogs, prairies, and forests; and 15 miles of shore.

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.

A park ranger stands in front of a dune. He is wearing a tan uniform with a classic ranger hat.

Dunes 101

Watch Ranger Matt's Dunes 101 videos to learn everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes, including how to have the best beach experience, where to camp, and which trail to hike.

Explore Our Communities

The Indiana Dunes is woven from the history, scenery, and life of its communities, from Hebron's small-town charm to Chesterton's markets, Valparaiso's arts scene, and Portage's Lake Michigan…

Visitor Center

The best way to live like a local is to learn from a local. Start your trip at the Visitor Center and chat with our destination ambassadors—they’re our Indiana Dunes area experts.

Festivals & Events 4 days ago

A group of four people stand together on a trail. They are looking at the camera, smiling. Woods are in the background

Beyond the Binoculars: Things to Do Near the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival

4 minute read

Each spring, birding enthusiasts from across the country flock to the shores of Lake Michigan for the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival—a celebration of one of the most biodiverse birding…

Outdoor Adventures 4 days ago

Where to Eat Near the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival

4 minute read

The Indiana Dunes Birding Festival happens each May when migrating birds converge near the southern coast of Lake Michigan. Birders from across the country (and world!) travel to the Indiana…

22 days ago

The interior of Yesterday's Treasures antique shop in Chesterton, Indiana, packed with vintage furniture, mirrors, clocks, and collectibles on display.

Antique Stores, Vintage Shops & Thrift Stores in Porter County

3 minute read

Some souvenirs collect dust. The good ones tell a story. Tucked between the Indiana Dunes and downtown streets of Porter County, antique shops, vintage boutiques, and consignment stores are…