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Close
Search
Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
Explore the Dunes Dunes 101Getting HereIndiana Dunes National ParkIndiana Dunes State Parktwo bikers on a roadOutdoor AdventuresVisitor Center
Things to DoThings to Do
Things to Do Arts & EntertainmentAttractions & RecreationOur CommunitiesPet Friendly: Dog at the DunesPet FriendlyShoppingVolunteer
Eat & DrinkEvents
Places to StayPlaces to Stay
Places to Stay Bed & BreakfastsHotels & InnsRVs & CampgroundsVacation Homes
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Indiana DunesExplore the DunesOutdoor AdventuresPaddling

Paddling & Exploring By Water

Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add coastlines, dunes, trails, and plenty of water. Luckily, there’s no shortage of lakes, creeks, and waterways to satisfy your inner aquaphile. Prepare your arms—and eyes—for mile after mile of majestic water routes, dune-lined shores, and stunning views of the surrounding communities. Take it easy and rent a boat, or bring your own watercraft and embark on an adventure over lake chains and lush parklands. Either way, it’s one of the best ways to get to know the Indiana Dunes area.

Browse Indiana Dunes Paddling Spots

Dune Views From Lake Michigan

Boasting some of the best paddling in the Indiana Dunes, the Lake Michigan Water Trail gives paddlers an in-depth, first-hand look at the diverse ecosystems of Northwest Indiana with each stroke. Featuring multiple access points along the coast of the Indiana Dunes area, this unique trail is the perfect place to catch views of white, sandy beaches, towering lakeside dunes, and glowing sunsets against the Chicago skyline.

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Workout on the Kankakee River

Forget the dumbells and cable machines, the Kankakee River National Water Trail offers 85 miles of shoulder-burning, bicep-making paddling through county, state, and national parks. Feel the burn as you paddle around the bends and curves of this historic river, enjoy views of the surrounding wetland habitat, and stop to rest and refuel at any of the beautiful parks along the way. Whether traveling as a pair or solo, you’ll be in good company—these shores are home to a bounty of wildlife, including beavers, deer, and more.

Outdoor Adventures

Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area

Designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, the 4,199-acre Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area is part of the Grand Kankakee Marsh…

Attractions & Recreation

Dunn’s Bridge County Park

You’ll find the only public boat access to the Kankakee River in Porter County at this park. An excellent spot to canoe or kayak, the river is…

Attractions & Recreation

Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park

This 2,069-acre park, located along the historic Kankakee River, floods seasonally, providing an ideal wetland habitat for a variety of wildlife. The…

Relax on the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes

Think of it as floating meditation. Feel your shoulders drop and your stress melt away as you dip your paddle into the serene water of the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes. Located on the north side of the city of Valparaiso, this extensive system of lakes, wetlands, smaller ponds, and streams is the perfect place to take a leisurely paddle between banks of wildflowers, rare migrating birds, and curious wildlife. Placid and private, find a moment (or two) of peace between tranquil Long Lake and the woodland lakes of the 122-acre Rogers Lakewood Park.

Outdoor Adventures

Long Lake Public Access

An excellent location for fishing and easy paddling with access to Canada Lake. Calm waters surrounded by private lakeside homes and wildlife make…

Outdoor Adventures

Rogers-Lakewood Park

Nestled on 122 acres of rolling woodlands, Rogers-Lakewood Park offers picnic pavilions, a sledding hill, a disc golf course, and a skateboard park.…

Let’s Paddle the Dunes!

Get the lowdown on safety and accessibility as well as detailed launch information from the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association:

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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

Bass Pro Shops

This 130,000 square-foot store has everything for outdoor enthusiasts, including boats, fishing gear, and hunting equipment. There is also a giant…

6425 Daniel Burnham Dr., Portage

Camp Stop General Store & Beach Stop

Located in the heart of the dunes, this store rents bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

2 W Dunes Hwy, Beverly Shores

Campbell Street Access

5502 Campbell St., Valparaiso

Deep River Water Trail

Running 16 miles from Lake George before emptying into Lake Michigan, Deep River’s width and calm current allows for easy navigation and provides…

Hobart, Lake Station, Gary, Hobart

Doyne’s Marine

This marina offers boat storage, docks, slip rentals, and a launch ramp. Launch fee includes parking for your towing vehicle.

1340 N. Crisman Rd., Portage

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

Dunn’s Bridge County Park

You’ll find the only public boat access to the Kankakee River in Porter County at this park. An excellent spot to canoe or kayak, the river is…

500 East and the Kankakee River, Kouts

East Branch Little Calumet Water Trail

With significant stretches in both Indiana and Illinois, the Little Calumet River has helped link cities and towns throughout the Chicago region for…

Little Calumet River, Portage

East Chicago Marina

As one of East Chicago's most popular destinations, the Marina district is home to Boardwalk Grille & Banquet Center and Indiana Harbor Yacht Club.…

3301 Aldis St., East, Chicago

Showing Results 1-10 of 49

Showing 47 results

Outdoor Adventure Near the Windy City

Discover Indiana Dunes

By Paul Osborn

More Outdoor Adventures

Beaches

With 15 miles of award-winning shoreline to explore, nine oh-so-swimmable beaches, and many towering dunes, you’ll be enchanted by the magic of the Indiana Dunes.

Bicycling

Some things stick with us forever, just like riding a bike. Unforgettable vacation memories spent cruising miles of paved trail, off-road adventures, and rails to trails journeys are just to name a few.

Birding

We’ve been described as “for the birds,” and no, that isn’t an insult. The Indiana Dunes is a birders paradise. After all, where else can you see more than 350 native and migratory bird species in one place?

Fishing

Fishing season? Try fishing seasons. With this many inland lakes, creeks, miles of shoreline, and deep waters, we’re hooked on the sport all year round.

Hiking

Need a reason to get outside? We’ve got 15,000 of ‘em. That’s 15,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness to walk, climb, and hike through along old-growth forest floors, centuries-old paths, and starkly beautiful wetlands.

Wandering

Take the time to wander and let your senses take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Indiana Dunes. Explore gardens, parks, and other natural areas with serene settings.

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