Indiana Dunes National Park

Walk on glacial sands, pushed and pulled by time into dunes nearly 250 feet high. Paddle across a 300-mile-long lake with waves and scenery that rival the Atlantic. A place unlike anywhere else on Earth? We’re not just putting wind in your sails. It’s a haven for hikers. A beacon for birders. A tenement for tenters. With an unparalleled position along 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 50 miles of rugged trails, and a diverse ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and old-growth forest, Indiana Dunes National Park is a destination for outdoor adventurers of all kinds.

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Diana of the Dunes Dare

In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also know as Diana, a nearby sand hill has been named “Diana’s Dune.” You can now hike in Alice’s footsteps and explore the natural wonders of her beloved Dunes terrain.

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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 experience.

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Drop-In Volunteering

We offer no-hassle volunteering through our drop-in program. Just show up — we provide the gear and training. Opportunities are available every day, so come lend a hand in preserving this beautiful place!

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Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

Want to create a personalized tour of the Indiana Dunes area? Stop by the Visitor Center where our front desk destination concierges will help you…

1215 N. State Road 49, Porter

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Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm

These two historic sites sit nearly side-by-side. Bailly Homestead is named for Joseph Bailly, the first known non-native region resident, who set up…

618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter

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Central Avenue Beach

This beach is surrounded by a buried forest created when wind-blown sands inundated the trees. It is also a great place to hike flower-filled fields,…

151 Central Ave., Michigan City

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Cowles Bog Trail

This is where Henry Chandler Cowles conducted his landmark study of the dunes’ vegetation succession. Pass through wooded dunes and wetlands until…

1450 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Dune Acres

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Diana of the Dunes Dare

Embrace the Dunes. Take the dare! In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also known as Diana, a nearby sand hill has been named…

W. Beach Trail Loop, Gary

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Dunbar Beach

Parking is limited at this prime spot near the Lake View Picnic Area and the historic Century of Progress homes. Enjoy this beautiful beach in a…

300 W. Lake Front Dr., Beverly Shores

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Dune Succession Trail

The Dunes Succession Trail links with two others in the national park system, covering a total of 3.6 miles. As the name suggests, this trail is a…

376 N. County Line Rd., Gary

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Dunes Learning Center

Dunes Learning Center gives kids a chance to learn about the Indiana Dunes with expert naturalists. Located inside Indiana Dunes National Park, Dunes…

700 Howe Rd. (N. 150 W.), Chesterton

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Glenwood Dunes Trail

Cross over two ancient dune ridges created as Lake Michigan receded 11,000 years ago. This trail is used for hiking, horseback riding…

1475 N. Brummitt Rd., Chesterton

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Great Marsh Trail

Just a short stroll to an accessible observation platform provides a great view of this recently restored wetland. Wading birds like herons and…

500 S. Broadway Ave., Beverly Shores

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Tales from the Dunes

The Indiana Dunes Blog

Did you know the Indiana Dunes has a 15-mile coastline with sandy beaches, more than 70 miles of hiking trails and more than 350 species of birds? Explore the latest and greatest tales from the dunes.

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Discovery Trail

Waking at Cowles Bog

For runners, Cowles Bog, easily one of the most technically challenging in the region, in addition to being easy on the eyes, is an immeasurable…

Communities

Five Things to Do This November in the Indiana Dunes

November is a wonderful time to visit the Indiana Dunes. The temperatures are mild, the leaves are starting to fall, and the holiday season is just…

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Top Places to Enjoy Fall Colors in the Indiana Dunes

Each fall, the trees in the Indiana Dunes area explode with vibrant autumn colors. Here are five places with amazing autumn views.

Indiana Dunes National Park Events

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Indiana Dunes Activities

Unplug from everyday stress and connect to nature with over 70 miles of hike-able trails, 15 miles of swim-able coastline, and over 350 species of migratory birds.

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Volunteer in the Dunes

Be the change by getting more involved with the Indiana Dunes!

There are many no-hassle, volunteer drop-in opportunities available for everyone. Just show up, and the organization provides the gear and training.

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Bed & Breakfasts

Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods to award-winning romantic getaways surrounded by gardens.

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Hotels & Inns

A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or a place you can bring your four-legged friend? Your unique getaway deserves a distinct accommodation.

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Indiana Dunes National Park

Diana of the Dunes Dare

Dunes 101

Drop-In Volunteering

Enjoy the Views

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