Indiana Dunes National Park
A surprising Midwest gem with stunning Lake Michigan beaches and unique shifting sand dunes, offering hiking and wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Indiana Dunes National Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprising Midwest gem with stunning Lake Michigan beaches and unique shifting sand dunes, offering hiking and wildlife viewing.
"Absolutely beautiful national park. Extremely helpful and kind rangers, they spent time helping us find which parts of the park we'd enjoy most."
🚗 Easy Access from Chicago
Take the South Shore Line train for a scenic and affordable trip from Chicago.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for stairs and sandy trails. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dune Succession Trail
West Beach
Hike over boardwalks and sand for stunning Lake Michigan views. Features over 270 stairs!
+1
Lake Michigan Beaches
West Beach, Porter Beach, Kemil Beach
Enjoy soft sand, clear waters, and unique Midwest beach vibes. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Cowles Bog Trail
Near Visitor Center
Explore diverse habitats, from wetlands to dunes, on this 4.7-mile loop. Great for birdwatching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Dunes Access
Park Pass & Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access from Chicago
Take the South Shore Line train for a scenic and affordable trip from Chicago.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for stairs and sandy trails. Good walking shoes are a must!
🐶 Pet-Friendly Options
Many areas welcome dogs on leash, and some trails are designated B.A.R.K. Ranger routes.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the chance to see the Chicago skyline from the beach on a clear day!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access from Chicago
Take the South Shore Line train for a scenic and affordable trip from Chicago.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for stairs and sandy trails. Good walking shoes are a must!
🐶 Pet-Friendly Options
Many areas welcome dogs on leash, and some trails are designated B.A.R.K. Ranger routes.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the chance to see the Chicago skyline from the beach on a clear day!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as some trails can be exposed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Indiana Dunes National Park for its beautiful beaches, unique dune landscapes, and accessibility from Chicago. Many highlight the well-maintained trails and the surprising natural beauty found so close to an urban center. Some note that it feels smaller than other national parks, and beach water quality can vary.
"Well I can't say I was ever good at geography but I visited Chicago and did not realize this place was right next door! We went here with our dog and he was welcomed LOL unlike Michigan and we had a blast here! If you have never been here and live even within 4 hours you should totally drive and spend the day. These pictures are beautiful in the water is blue and gorgeous we will definitely be back with our family for more time here"
Tasha Shepherd
"Absolutely beautiful national park. Extremely helpful and kind rangers, they spent time helping us find which parts of the park we'd enjoy most as we didn't have a full day to spend. The park featured impeccably kept trails, boardwalks and other structures, gorgeous natural landscapes and interesting plant life. Throughout the park there were wonderful birding opportunities, and we did see other wildlife, like insects and snapping turtles. Would love to return and get to all the parts we were too pressed for time to see. Stop in at the visitors center, well worth it."
Natalie Kelsey
"The national park is small and shouldn't be called one technicality. However, the sand dunes and beach are great! Had fun here and enjoyed the stay. The facility at West beach is very good, you can shower after going back from the beach. The beach water is clear, the sand is fine and there is no smell. Highly recommend. Note there is also a State Park with the same name which you need to pay separately to go into."
J. X. (JX2069)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the South Shore Line train from Chicago to the Dune Park station, which is about an hour's ride and costs around $10 per way. Alternatively, driving is about an hour's drive from downtown Chicago.
Yes, parking is available at various access points like West Beach, Kemil Beach, and Mount Baldy. Some lots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Yes, the South Shore Line train provides convenient access to the park, making it a great car-free day trip option from Chicago.
They are separate entities with different entrance fees. The National Park offers a wider range of trails and habitats, while the State Park is known for its iconic dunes and beach access.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services operating within Indiana Dunes National Park. It's best to drive or use the train to access different areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Indiana Dunes National Park. Fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and duration of your visit. Check the official NPS website for current pricing.
Reservations are generally not required for general park entry. However, some specific activities or areas might have capacity limits, so it's always good to check the park's website.
The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and specific facilities have set operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass is accepted at Indiana Dunes National Park, covering the entrance fee for a year.
Yes, Indiana Dunes State Park has a separate entrance fee from the National Park. You will need to pay a fee for each if you plan to visit both.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Dune Succession Trail (West Beach) for its stairs and views, Cowles Bog Trail for diverse habitats, and Mount Baldy Beach Trail for its unique dune landscape.
Yes, swimming is permitted at designated beaches like West Beach, Porter Beach, and Kemil Beach. Be aware of potential rip currents and bacteria advisories.
Absolutely! The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with diverse habitats supporting a wide variety of species, especially along trails like Cowles Bog and Great Marsh.
Yes, dogs are welcome in most areas of the National Park on a leash. Some trails, like the Cowles Bog Trail, are designated B.A.R.K. Ranger routes.
You might spot various wildlife including insects, snapping turtles, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out during your hikes!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no full-service restaurants within the park, some beaches like West Beach have concessions or snack bars during peak season. It's recommended to pack your own food or dine in nearby towns.
Nearby towns like Chesterton, Michigan City, and Portage offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Michigan City has options like Fluid Coffee.
Yes, picnic areas are available at various locations throughout the park, offering a great way to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in the surrounding towns to stock up on picnic supplies or snacks for your visit.
You'll find a range of options from casual diners and pizza places to cafes and more upscale restaurants, depending on the town you visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Dune Succession Trail offers iconic dune landscapes, while the beaches provide stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Golden hour can create dramatic shadows and warm tones on the dunes.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks. You must follow FAA regulations and obtain any necessary permits from the National Park Service.
The juxtaposition of the natural dunes against the distant Chicago skyline is a unique photographic subject. Also, consider the historic Century of Progress Homes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and beaches. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife and distant cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider participating in the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, where kids can learn about park conservation and earn a special tag.
🐶 Pet Owners
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The Cowles Bog Trail is a must for those interested in diverse ecosystems and birdwatching, showcasing wetlands, forests, and dunes. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique dune succession phenomenon and the variety of plant and animal life. Remember to check trail conditions and wear appropriate footwear for sandy and uneven terrain. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dunes: Trails and Terrains
+1 This trail exemplifies the park's unique dune succession, showcasing how plant life colonizes and stabilizes the shifting sands. For a more immersive experience into varied ecosystems, the Cowles Bog Trail offers a 4.7-mile loop that winds through wetlands, forests, and dunes, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and observing different plant communities. Beyond these well-known paths, the park offers other notable trails such as the Mount Baldy Beach Trail, which leads to a significant dune that is actively migrating, and the Great Marsh Trail, providing a serene boardwalk experience through a vital wetland habitat.
Many trails are well-marked, but it's always wise to carry a map or use a navigation app. The sandy terrain can be demanding, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for comfort and safety. It's important to note that some dunes, like Mount Baldy, can have seasonal closures or access restrictions due to erosion and safety concerns. Always check the official Indiana Dunes National Park website for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions and any advisories before your visit.
Lake Michigan's Shoreline: Beaches and Activities
Porter Beach and Kemil Beach are also excellent choices for those seeking a slightly quieter experience, offering pristine sands and clear waters. Swimming in Lake Michigan is a highlight for many visitors, but it's essential to be aware of the lake's conditions. Strong waves and occasional rip currents can occur, so always pay attention to posted warnings and lifeguard instructions.
Beyond swimming, the beaches are perfect for beachcombing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing and enjoying the vast expanse of the lake. On clear days, the distant Chicago skyline provides a striking backdrop, creating a memorable contrast between urban development and natural beauty.
This unexpected view is often cited as a pleasant surprise by visitors and offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Getting There and Around: Transportation Options
Driving is also a viable option, with the park being about an hour's drive from downtown Chicago.
Several parking areas are available at different beach access points and trailheads, such as West Beach, Kemil Beach, and Mount Baldy. However, these lots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is advisable. Once you are at the park, getting between different areas typically requires your own vehicle or utilizing the train for longer distances. There are no official shuttle services operating within the national park itself, so planning your itinerary to group activities by location can be efficient.
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