Pet-Friendly In the Dunes
There’s a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in the state of Indiana by GoPetFriendly.com. It’s because we believe lakeside fun shouldn’t just be reserved for the two-legged kind. Around here, you’ll find plenty of sites, attractions, and accommodations. Take your furry friend on the 3 Dune Challenge, hit up a beach or two along the lakeshore just east of the Indiana Dunes State Park, or pull up a seat on a pet-friendly patio to share a drink in the company of your most loyal companion.
Our Largest “Dog Parks”
Calling all dogs! Leashed pets are allowed inside both the National and State Parks and are welcome on all beaches except for the lifeguarded swim areas at West Beach and the State Park. They are also allowed on every trail except Pinhook Bog Trail and the Glenwood Dune s Trail System. Here are a few of our favorite dog-friendly parks in the Indiana Dunes area.
B.A.R.K. Rangers Program
Does your dog have what it takes to be the next Indiana Dunes B.A.R.K. Ranger? See a park ranger at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or the Paul H. Douglas Center to get your B.A.R.K. Ranger brass dog tag.
Bag your own waste.
Always bring bags and dispose of waste at garbage cans. Never leave waste on or along the trails.
Always wear a leash that is no more than 6 feet (2m) long.
This prevents your dog and the wildlife from startling each other.
Respect wildlife.
Indiana Dunes is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Admire from a distance, and do not disturb them!
Know where you can go. The following areas are closed to pets, except for service dogs:
Nature Play Areas—These areas are located on the east side of the Paul Douglas Center’s main parking lot and inside the Mather and Douglas loops at the Dunewood Campground.
Pinhook Bog Trail—Pets are not permitted on the Pinhook Bog Trail. Pets are permitted in the parking lot and on the Pinhook Upland Trail.
Glenwood Dunes Trail System—Pets (other than horses) are not permitted on the specific portion of the Glenwood Dunes trail system that is designated for equestrian use. Pets are permitted in the parking lot and other sections of the trail system.
West Beach—Pets are permitted everywhere except for the lifeguard swim area, which is maintained from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through the Monday of Labor Day weekend.
Indiana Dunes Dog Bandana
Stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to purchase your furry friend an Indiana Dunes bandana!
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Places to Go with Your Pet
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Traveling with Dogs to the Indiana Dunes National Park
“If you’re planning a road trip with your dog and would enjoy scenic stretches of dunes, wooded parks, and beaches, I suggest you check out the Indiana Dunes!” – Tonya Wilhelm
