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.

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

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…

Indiana Dunes National Park 2 months ago

A woman in a straw hat, sunglasses, and casual outdoor clothing stands on a sandy path near Lake Michigan, smiling as she talks with two park rangers. The rangers wear gray uniform shirts, dark green pants, and wide-brimmed ranger hats. One ranger gestures with her hand while speaking, while the other listens with a serious expression. Behind them, tall beach grass and the deep blue lake stretch toward the horizon under a clear sky.

Experience the Indiana Dunes Through the Eyes of The Brain Scoop

2 minute read

Did you know that Indiana Dunes National Park is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in the Midwest? Join Emily Graslie, former Chief Curiosity Correspondent at The Field Museum in…

2 months ago

Our Guide to Stargazing in the Indiana Dunes

2 minute read

Designated dark sky areas near Lake Michigan provide a rare opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky, even in proximity to urban centers. You don’t need to be…

Trip Planning 2 months ago

Top Things to Do This Spring Break in the Indiana Dunes

2 minute read

Spring in the Indiana Dunes means you can experience a perfect mix of hiking in natural beauty alongside family-friendly festivities and activities. As the landscape blooms with native…