Outdoor Adventures
Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from nine Lake Michigan beaches. It’s 15 beautiful miles of award-winning shoreline on top of a biodiverse collection of woodland wilderness, county, state, and national parks, bike trails, and three of the world’s biggest sand dunes. So get out there and get to know outdoor adventure the Indiana Dunes way: by foot, paddle, and pedal.
Choose Your Adventure!
Beaches
Life in the Indiana Dunes is like a day at the beach. That’s because we have 15 beautiful miles of award-winning…
Bicycling
Calling all leisure riders, mountain bikers, road warriors, and BMX enthusiasts. No matter your wheels, you’ll find…
Birding
Few places in the Midwest rival the Indiana Dunes area for birding. More than 350 species live or migrate through…
Fishing
Fishing season? Try seasons. With this many inland lakes, creeks, shorelines, and deep waters, we’re hooked on the…
Hiking
Lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes. Of course, you won’t really be lost—we’ve got 70-miles of…
Paddling
Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add coastlines, dunes, trails, and plenty of water. Luckily, there’s no…
Wandering
Why hurry? Take the time to wander and let your senses take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Indiana Dunes…
Borrow a Naturalist Backpack
Explore the Indiana Dunes like an expert! The Backpacks for Naturalists program offers free explorer backpacks for…
Two Amazing Trails
Challenge friends, family, and yourself to an epic climb up the three tallest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. It’s 1.5 miles of tough trail with 552 vertical feet that’s 100 percent…
Don’t just read about history, experience it! 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…
How to Stay Safe in the Indiana Dunes
Before you hit the trails or beach, hear Ranger Matt’s top safety tips for the Indiana Dunes.
We believe lakeside fun shouldn’t just be reserved for the two-legged kind. Here, you and your furry friend will find plenty of sites, attractions, and accommodations.
Explore the Indiana Dunes like an expert! The Backpacks for Naturalists program offers free explorer backpacks for daily use. Each backpack contains binoculars, field guides, and more.
Tales from the Dunes
Read All StoriesWhere to See Lupines in the Indiana Dunes
- 3 minute read
Each spring, a sea of colorful wildflowers washes across the landscape of the Indiana Dunes. If you time your visit just right, you’ll be treated to one of the most beloved wildflower…
Our Guide to The 3 Dune Challenge
- 3 minute read
The 3 Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park offers a fun way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes. This celebrated 1.5-mile trail takes hikers up Indiana’s three…
Celebrate Summer with Outdoor Movies in Valparaiso
- 1 minute read
Valparaiso Events’ Summer Outdoor Movies series takes place in June and July of 2025, with a showing of the family favorite Zootopia at Central Park Plaza, home to Northwest Health…
More Things to See & Do
Outdoor Adventures
Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from…
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…
Drop-in Volunteering
Be the Change — Volunteer! Get more involved with the Indiana Dunes!
Book a Place to Stay
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…