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Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
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Close
Search
Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
Explore The Dunes Dunes 101Getting HereIndiana Dunes National ParkTwo people kayakingIndiana Dunes State ParkOur CommunitiesVisitor Center
Things to DoThings to Do
Things to Do Arts & EntertainmentAttractions & RecreationDrop-In VolunteeringFamily Funtwo bikers on a roadOutdoor AdventuresPet FriendlyShopping
Eat & DrinkEventsPlaces to Stay
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Indiana DunesExplore The DunesIndiana Dunes National Park

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.

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.

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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National Park Listings

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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

Featured

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

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

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

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

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

Dunes Learning Center

The Dunes Learning Center gives kids a chance to learn about the Indiana Dunes by being out in nature with the experts. Visit indianadunes.com/events…

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

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

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

Heron Rookery East

Fishing access at GPS Coordinates: 41.6697402, -86.9515129

1336 N. 600 East, Michigan City

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Indiana Dunes National Park Events

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Exhibits

Porter’s Perfect Pint

Saturday, October 02, 2021

Join in the annual beer tasting and silent auction fundraiser. Enjoy a commemorative pint glass, door prizes, and samples from approximately 40…

Community

Summer Concert Series – Kashmir

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Music Lovers, come out and enjoy the sounds of the season with the Summer Concert Series. This concert series features many talented artists…

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Do More in the Dunes

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Visitor Center

Dunes 101: What are the Indiana Dunes?

Two park systems make up the Indiana Dunes—the National Park and State Park. Both have unique features that will keep you exploring for days!

Wildlife

Skunk Cabbage: The Smell of Spring

After a long gray Indiana winter, it’s a real joy to smell skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), one of Indiana’s native, fascinating flowers.

Wildlife

Monarchs in the Indiana Dunes

They are fragile, face many threats, and yet are so resilient. During their epic migration, monarchs fly further than any insect on earth.

Visitor Center

We’re Looking For Volunteers!

The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is looking for volunteers to help visitors learn about the Indiana Dunes and attractions, dining, and shopping in…