Dunes 101

Along the coast of the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world, you’ll find Indiana’s most ecologically diverse area, the Indiana Dunes. Known by many for its beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, the Indiana Dunes area is also home to some of the world’s largest lakeshore dunes, including Mount Baldy, a 125-foot “living dune” shaped by glacial sands. Covered in native flora and wild lupines, the Indiana Dunes is the best place to spot hundreds of migratory birds, explore Hoosier history, and revel in a landscape full of natural splendor.

Dunes 101 Series

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 beach experience, where to camp, and the perfect hiking trail for your skill level.

Want to know even more? Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where you’ll learn some fun facts about one of America’s most ecologically diverse areas and stay up-to-date on everything Indiana Dunes related.

What Are the Indiana Dunes?

Join Ranger Matt in the Dunes 101 Series to learn everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes and how to best experience the Indiana Dunes area.

Where Are the Indiana Dunes Beaches?

Join Ranger Matt in the Dunes 101 Series to learn everything you need to know about Indiana Dunes beaches and how to best experience the Indiana Dunes area.

Where to Hike in the Indiana Dunes

Join Ranger Matt in the Dunes 101 Series to learn everything you need to know about hiking the Indiana Dunes and how to best experience the Indiana Dunes area.

Where to Camp in the Indiana Dunes

Join Ranger Matt in the Dunes 101 Series to learn everything you need to know about Indiana Dunes camping and how to best experience the Indiana Dunes area.

Interesting Things About the Indiana Dunes

Join Ranger Matt in the Dunes 101 Series to learn some fun facts about the Indiana Dunes' environment, ecology, and history. Stay until the end for an exciting secret!

How to Stay Safe in the Dunes — Dunes 101: Safety & Responsibilities | Indiana Dunes

In this Dunes 101 Series, you'll learn everything you need to know about staying safe in the Indiana Dunes as well as your responsibilities as an environmentally conscious visitor.

Geographic Regions

Each region in this unique geographic area echoes stories of our past. There’s a reason we’re unlike anywhere else you’ve ever been.

Beach Closures and Safety

Be beach ready. Stay up-to-date on lake conditions, beach closures, and general water safety warnings with our helpful tips, tricks, and links.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Check out our FAQ page where we’ve answered frequently asked questions about the Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park.

Indiana Dunes Outdoors Adventures

Discover why the Indiana Dunes area is one of the Midwest’s top spots for outdoor adventures, activities, and more. Download one of our Digital Destination Guides to start planning your Indiana Dunes adventure.

Request a Printed Guide

View our Digital Guides

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…

Outdoor Adventures

Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from…

Happy woman and child sitting on the beach

Dunes Deals

Shake off the sand south of the Indiana Dunes! Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of…

Indiana Dunes Shop

Don’t just experience the Indiana Dunes; take it home with you. Find your new favorite T-shirt, hoodie, or…

Pet Friendly

There’s a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in the state of Indiana…

Arts & Entertainment

It’s not all sand-fringed lakes and epic sunsets. Here, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene stoked by a…

Volunteer

Be the Change — Volunteer! Get more involved with the Indiana Dunes!

Bed & Breakfasts

Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…

Hotels & Inns

A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…

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