Indiana Dunes State Park

🌾 Discover Indiana Dunes State Park: Where Lake and Land Meet

Step into a landscape shaped by wind, water, and wonder.
Indiana Dunes State Park, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offers one of the Midwest’s most stunning natural escapes. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or discovery, the dunes invite you to explore a world where shifting sands meet sparkling waters.

🏖️ What You’ll Experience

1. Hike the Legendary Dunes

Challenge yourself on the Three Dune Challenge, a 1.5-mile trail that climbs the park’s three tallest dunes — some rising nearly 200 feet above the lake! The reward? Breathtaking panoramic views and a feeling of pure accomplishment.

2. Relax on the Beach

Stretch out along three miles of pristine shoreline, where soft sands and cool lake breezes create the perfect summer retreat. Swimming, sunbathing, or beachcombing — it’s all part of the Indiana Dunes experience.

3. Explore the Trails

With over 16 miles of trails, you can wander through oak forests, wetlands, and shifting dune ridges. Each season brings its own magic — from spring wildflowers to fiery fall foliage.

4. Spot Wildlife

Keep your binoculars ready! More than 350 bird species call the dunes home, making this a premier destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.

5. Stay for the Sunset

As the sun dips below Lake Michigan, the sky ignites in shades of orange, pink, and gold. It’s the perfect ending to a day spent in one of Indiana’s most iconic landscapes.

🏕️ Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: 1600 N. 25 E., Chesterton, Indiana
🕒 Hours: Park open daily, dawn to dusk
💰 Entrance Fee: $7 (in-state vehicles), $12 (out-of-state)
🏠 Amenities: Campground, picnic areas, nature center, trails, and swimming beach

🌿 Insider Tips

• Arrive early on summer weekends — parking fills up fast.

• Bring water and good shoes for the dune trails.

• Visit in winter for snowshoeing and peaceful lakeshore walks.

• Stop by the Nature Center for hands-on exhibits and guided hikes.

Indiana Dunes State Park is more than a destination — it’s an experience that connects you with the rhythms of nature and the spirit of adventure.

👉 Plan your visit today and see why this Great Lakes gem belongs on every traveler’s list.