Your Guide to Pet-Friendly Adventures in the Indiana Dunes Area

There's a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in Indiana by GoPetFriendly.com. It's because we believe adventures should include every member of the family, paws included.

In the Indiana Dunes area, you'll find plenty of ways to explore together. Hike scenic trails, tackle the 3 Dune Challenge, discover dog-friendly stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline, or relax on a pet-friendly patio after a day outdoors. Beyond the parks, welcoming communities and pet-friendly places to stay make it easy to turn a day trip into an unforgettable getaway. 

One of the things that makes this destination especially unique is that nearly all of the Indiana Dunes National Park is open to leashed pets. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or searching for new pet-friendly things to do, this guide will help you uncover the best ways to experience the Indiana Dunes area with your four-legged travel companion. 

Can You Bring Dogs to the Indiana Dunes?

Yes! One of the things that makes the Indiana Dunes area especially unique is just how many places welcome pets. From scenic trails and beaches to patio dinners and overnight stays, you'll find plenty of opportunities to include your four-legged companion in your travel plans. 

Dogs are welcome throughout most of the Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park. Leashed pets can explore nearly every outdoor area, including trails, campgrounds, and most beaches. In fact, the list of places a dog can't go is surprisingly short!

Simple Ways to Keep the Indiana Dunes Dog-Friendly

A few simple guidelines help protect wildlife, preserve sensitive habitats, and ensure everyone can enjoy these special places for generations to come.

Bag Your Own Waste
Pack waste bags and dispose of them in garbage cans. Pet waste can impact water quality and wildlife habitat.

Use a Six-Foot Leash
Keeping dogs on a leash helps protect your pet, other visitors, and the wildlife that call the Indiana Dunes home.

Respect Wildlife
From migrating birds to native mammals, the Indiana Dunes supports an incredible diversity of life. Admire wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing nests or feeding areas. 

Places With Pet Restrictions

There are a few areas in the Indiana Dunes where pets aren't welcome. This is to protect sensitive habitats, support shared recreation spaces, and ensure a safe experience for everyone.

1. West Beach swimming area —Pets are welcome at West Beach except for the designated swimming area during lifeguard season, from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through the Monday of Labor Day weekend.
2. Pinhook Bog Trail—Pets are not permitted on this trail to help protect one of the region's most fragile ecosystems and rare plant communities. Pets are welcome in the parking lot and on the Pinhook Upland Trail.
3. Glenwood Dunes equestrian trail—Pets (other than horses) are not permitted on the equestrian portion of the trail system. Pets are welcome in the parking lot and other sections of the trail system.
4. Nature Play Areas—Dogs are not permitted in the Nature Play Areas near the Paul H. Douglas Center or inside the Mather and Douglas loops at the Dunewood Campground.

Find More Pet-Friendly Places

Looking for a pet-friendly hotel, restaurant, park, or attraction? Browse our complete directory of pet-friendly places throughout the Indiana Dunes area. Use the filters below to discover even more ways to explore with your four-legged companion.