Indiana Dunes State Park

Photo provided by Indiana Office of Tourism Development
Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park
Photo by Susan Ross


The southern shores of Lake Michigan consist of a stunning dune landscape, which is ideal for hiking, camping, bird-watching, picnicking and swimming.

Explore the ancient landscapes of Indiana Dunes State Park, bound on the northwest by pristine Lake Michigan. Formed after the lake’s water levels dropped at the end of the Ice Age, the region’s dunes have slowly shifted and grown over with lush vegetation. The nature reserve consists of 2,182 acres (883 hectares) of extraordinary sand dunes and unique geology, making it an unrivaled destination for recreation and nature experiences in the state.

A great way to start your exploration of Indiana Dunes State Park is with a visit to the reserve’s Nature Centre. Look through the centre’s wildlife observation windows and learn about the region’s vegetation with the help of interpretive displays. The dunes’ intriguing formation over thousands of years has meant that ancient vegetation is sometimes revealed when the dunes shift.

Check out the Beach House Blowout, the Furnessville Blowout or the Big Blowout, which shows the old tree stumps of primeval forests. Learn about the Potawatomi and Miami Native American people who traveled over the dunes as part of their traditional trade routes.

Birdwatchers will delight in the park’s observation towers. Spot wetland species from an observation tower overlooking marshland or climb the platform near the summit of Mount Tom. From here, you can see all the way to Chicago, as well as Gary, Indiana, on a clear day.

Explore 16 miles (26 kilometres) of hiking trails, which showcase the park’s different ecosystems and historic structures. Picnic shelters are available at several sites in the park.

If the weather is warm, enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan. Between Memorial Day and Labour Day, lifeguards patrol this beach on weekends. Stop at the beachside concession stand for last-minute snacks and supplies. Fish for smelt along the lakeshore.

Indiana Dunes State Park is located on the state’s northwestern border. It is about 160 miles (260 kilometres) from Indianapolis and 50 miles (80 kilometres) from Chicago, Illinois. The park is open daily and charges a fee for entry and campsite reservations.

Plan a trip to see Indiana Dunes State Park

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2 miles from Dunes National Park. A Unique Boutique Hotel.

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Porter, IN
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A cozy home between the Indiana Dunes and town of Chesterton.

A cozy home between the Indiana Dunes and town of Chesterton.

Porter, IN
A cozy home between the Indiana Dunes and town of Chesterton.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including birdwatching, where you can spot numerous species in their natural habitat. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, there are several hiking trails that allow you to explore the stunning landscapes and scenic views, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

For shopping near Indiana Dunes State Park, visit Dunes Plaza, just 5.0km away, offering a city vibe with family-friendly options. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets is also nearby at 5.6km, featuring a variety of shops. If you're up for a drive, Garwood Orchards is 8.1km from the park.

Recreation

Marquette Park, located 6.8km from Indiana Dunes State Park, offers a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and wellness. The nearby Hanson Park, 6.2km away, provides a similar serene vibe. For those seeking outdoor sports, the Disk Golf Course, also 6.2km away, is perfect for an active day out.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at Cowles Bog Trailhead, a scenic hiking trail located 1.2km from Indiana Dunes State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty. For family fun, visit Deep River Water Park, situated 9.9km away, offering thrilling water rides and entertainment for all ages.

Nightlife

For a lively evening, catch a show at the Guy Foreman Bicentennial Amphitheater, just 5.6km from Indiana Dunes State Park. Alternatively, enjoy a film at Cinemark Valparaiso or immerse yourself in a performance at the Chicago Street Theatre, both located 8.1km away.

Find the best attractions near Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities, perfect for families and beach enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the stunning Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the various urban parks in the vicinity. With opportunities for hiking, sunbathing, and enjoying nature, this destination is ideal for those seeking a memorable getaway. Don't miss the chance to visit the renowned Indiana Dunes National Park for a complete experience of this beautiful region.

  • Indiana Dunes National Park: Experience stunning natural beauty at Indiana Dunes National Park, where you can explore miles of sandy beaches, lush forests, and scenic trails. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a variety of activities, from hiking to birdwatching, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking dunes and Lake Michigan.
  • Lake View Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day at Lake View Beach, where you can bask in the sun, take a swim, or stroll along the picturesque shoreline. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, it's perfect for unwinding and soaking up the beach vibes.
  • Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: Start your adventure at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, where you can gather information, participate in family-friendly activities, and learn about the park's diverse ecosystems. It's a great hub for planning your outdoor excursions.

Best time to go to Indiana Dunes State Park

The best time to visit Indiana Dunes State Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Indiana Dunes State Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Indiana Dunes State Park falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January26.1°F (-3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February27.5°F (-2.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September66.0°F (18.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Indiana Dunes State Park

To save money on your trip to Indiana Dunes State Park, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, avoiding the peak summer season. Booking your stay on a Tuesday can also help cut costs, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilize Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified accommodations and sort results by price. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for significant savings. Don't forget to compare rates to find the best deals available for your stay!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Indiana Dunes State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.