Ready for a workout with bragging rights? Tackle the 3 Dune Challenge, a steep 1.5-mile hike up the three tallest dunes in Indiana Dunes State Park with 552 feet of elevation gain.
Named one of the best places to hike in Indiana by USA Today, Trail 9 at the Indiana Dunes State Park offers incredible vistas and towering sand dunes that make you feel a thousand miles away.
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.
State Park Views
We love our outdoor spaces and many are fragile habitats that need to be protected! Learn how to visit the Indiana Dunes sustainably with these eco-friendly travel tips.
The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse national parks in the entire country. Over 1,100 flowering plant species and ferns make their homes here. How many flowers can YOU find?
Saw-Whet & S'Mores @ Indiana Dunes State Park
- Indiana Dunes State Park
- Recurring daily
Meet migrating Northern Saw-whet Owls up close during a cozy evening of owl banding, conservation, and s’mores at…
Bigfoot Half Trail Run @ Stoney Run County Park
-Race starts at 8:00 am central time, and packet pick-up begins at 7:15 am -We will be selling old Crazy Legs Race…
Happy OWL-idays @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Join us at the Nature Center’s Auditorium for some OWL-iday cheer with Humane Indiana Wildlife’s live owl…
Annual First Day Hike @ Indiana Dunes State Park
As part of a 50-state initiative, America's State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an…
More than just a hiking trail, this interactive experience will weave the culture of the Miami and Potawatomi Indigenous Peoples with the natural ecology of the Indiana Dunes.
You’re invited to help be a part of preserving and protecting the Indiana Dunes by volunteering during your visit. All you have to do is show up! How’s that for easy?!
Learn about a few ways you can explore the outdoors responsibly while ensuring that its beauty and resources are maintained for future generations.
Bats in Indiana: Masters of the Night Sky
- 5 minute read
Bats are hot these days! If you are a Cubs fan or a White Sox fan, bats are swinging and folks are cheering. If you happen to be an Indiana bat aficionado, then you may have heard that…
A Fall Weekend Worth Writing Home About
- 4 minute read
Fall has a way of bringing out a different and unexpected side of the Indiana Dunes. The air turns crisp, autumn colors fill the forests, and miles of trail lead to sweeping views of Lake…
Don’t Skip These 7 Autumn Activities in the Indiana Dunes
- 3 minute read
That summer trip you planned? Postpone it. The Indiana Dunes are a sight to see in the fall—and there’s a lot to do, too! 1. Dig into Fall Flavors Cinnamon, apple, pumpkin…
Dunes Deals Coupons
Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of your vacation. Discounts ranging from a free scoop…
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, Culture, & Entertainment
It’s not all sand-fringed lakes and epic sunsets. Here, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene stoked by a…
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…