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Indiana Dunes National Park

Designation: National Park

Location: Indiana

Visit Official Park Website

šŸ“˜ Park Overview

Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the parkā€™s 16,000 acres.

šŸŒ¤ Weather Information

On average, the warmest month is July and the highest recorded temperature was 105F in 1934. The coolest month is January, with the lowest recorded temperature of -25F in 1985. June sees the most precipitation with an average rainfall of 4.66 Inches.

šŸš— Directions

Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 20, Indiana State Road 49, and various other local roads. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located on Indiana State Road 49, between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94 (1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304). For a driving map to the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or other locations, check out our maps page.

Images

Michigan Lake beach with green grassy dunes in the background, under a blue sky.

Central Avenue Beach at low water levels, spring 2006.

Credit: NPS Photo

Sunset on Lake Michigan

Sunset at Indiana Dunes National Park

Credit: Rafi Wilkinson

Sunset on Lake Michigan

Sunset on Lake Michigan

Credit: Michael Gard

Prairie in Bloom

MnokƩ Prairie

Credit: Jeff Manuszak

Porter Beach Access Point

Porter Beach Access Point

Credit: Jeff Manuszak

Central Beach

Central Beach

Credit: NPS Collection

Sunset at Lake View

Sunset at Lake View

Credit: Jeff Manuszak

Peace on Lake Michigan

Peace on Lake Michigan

Credit: Jeff Manuszak

Activities

Topics

Operating Hours

Sunday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Monday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Tuesday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Wednesday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Thursday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Friday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Saturday
6:00AM - 11:00PM

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Motorcycle
7-Day Park Entrance Fee - Motorcycle Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase)
$20.00
Entrance - Private Vehicle
7-Day Park Entrance Fee - Family-Size Vehicle Per private family-sized vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase).
$25.00
Entrance - Per Person
7-Day Per Person Entrance Fee (Organized, non-commercial groups) Visitors 16 years of age or older who enter on foot, bicycle, boat, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.
$15.00
Commercial Entrance - Sedan
Entry for commercial sedans with 6 or less people. Cost is $25.00 plus $15 per person (not to exceed next highest rate).
$25.00
Commercial Entrance - Van
Commercial Tour Fee - Van (7-15 persons) - $40.00 Entry for commercial vans with 7-15 people.
$40.00
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus
Commercial Tour Fee - Mini Bus (16-25 persons) - $40.00 Entry for commercial mini bus with 16-25 people.
$40.00
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach
Commercial Tour Fee - Motor Coach (26+ persons) - $100.00 Entry for commercial motor coaches with 26+ persons.
$100.00

Entrance Passes

Annual Entrance - Park
Indiana Dunes National Park Annual Pass This pass provides entry for the pass owner(s) and passengers in a family-sized vehicle. This pass only works at the Indiana Dunes National Park and is not accepted at the Indiana Dunes State Park. Passes can be purchased from the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, seasonally at the West Beach kiosk, or online at recreation.gov.
$45.00

3-Day Weather Forecast

Tuesday, Nov 4

Sunny

Sunny

High: 66Ā°F | Low: 36.3Ā°F

Humidity: 51%

Wind: 18.6 mph

Rain Chance: 0%

UV Index: 0.5

Sunrise: 06:24 AM

Sunset: 04:39 PM

Moon: Waxing Gibbous (96%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 40.3Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 0%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Wednesday, Nov 5

Partly Cloudy

Partly Cloudy

High: 58.6Ā°F | Low: 49.6Ā°F

Humidity: 84%

Wind: 24.2 mph

Rain Chance: 0%

UV Index: 0.6

Sunrise: 06:25 AM

Sunset: 04:38 PM

Moon: Full Moon (99%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 49.5Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 0%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Thursday, Nov 6

Partly Cloudy

Partly Cloudy

High: 54.7Ā°F | Low: 46Ā°F

Humidity: 64%

Wind: 17.9 mph

Rain Chance: 0%

UV Index: 0.5

Sunrise: 06:27 AM

Sunset: 04:36 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (100%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 42.4Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 0%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Park Alerts

Emergency Closure In Effect Until Tree Cutting Has Ended
Pursuant to 36 CFR 1.5(a)(1), an emergency closure is in effect for the protection of public and employee safety in the area around the Cowles Bog project tree cutting area. All areas and trails within 100 yards of the work site are closed to public use.
I-94 Exit Ramp Westbound to 49 North Closure Until July 14 about 6:00 PM CDT Information
At IN 49 (Chesterton). The exit ramp is closed due to bridge construction work until July 14, 2025 at about 6:00PM CDT. I-94 westbound at IN 49 (Chesterton). The exit ramp 26B is closed due to bridge construction work.
Road Closure - West Beach Information
Railroad crossing on County Line Road will be closed starting September 30th - October 10th.
Closure of Marquette Trail Park Closure
The Marquette Trail from the Paul H. Douglas Center to West Beach is closed March 19 through the year's end for a paving project. There will be no public access during this time. The Paul H. Douglas Trail (Miller Woods Trail) remains open.

More Info

High temperatures are expected.
Stay hydrated, seek or improvise shade, and use sun protection.
Partial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Information
Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional damage. This trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. Pier access remains open on either side of closure.
Partial Trail Closure at Bailly / Chellberg Information
The portion of the Bailly / Chellberg Trail north of the farm in the ravines will be closed from June 16, 2025, until October 3, 2025. This is for the replacement of the boardwalks and stairs in the ravines.
West Beach Closed Today Danger
West Beach is closed today due to icy travel conditions. It will reopen when conditions improve.
Central Avenue Beach is Closed Caution
Central Beach is closed due to hazardous conditions until further notice. The following beaches remain open: Lake View, Dunbar, Kemil, State Park, Porter, Portage Lakefront and West Beach.
Partial Closures of Calumet Bike Trail Caution
Due to recent re-construction efforts, partial closures of the Calumet Bike Trail will be in effect through this fall and sometime next year. Please use caution if riding on the trail (see below) and off the trail (because of the closures).

More Info

Partial Trail Closure at Bailly / Chellberg Information
The portion of the Bailly / Chellberg Trail north of the farm in the ravines will be closed from June 16, 2025, until October 3, 2025. This is for the replacement of the boardwalks and stairs in the ravines.
Partial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Information
Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional damage. This trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. Pier access remains open on either side of closure.
Closure of Marquette Trail Park Closure
The Marquette Trail from the Paul H. Douglas Center to West Beach is closed March 19 through the year's end for a paving project. There will be no public access during this time. The Paul H. Douglas Trail (Miller Woods Trail) remains open.

More Info

Garden Program at Chellberg Farm on May 17, 2014
The planting will be delayed due to wet soil conditions. The Garden Program at Chellberg Farm will still continue with alternate learning activities about the garden.
Park Closure Caution
The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore leadership announced today that it will be closed due to weather conditions. We anticipate that the park will be back to normal operations on 2/25/2016 at 10am.
Swimming Advisory for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
There is a swimming advisory for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore due to an unknown substance found floating in the waters on June 17.
East Side of Lake View is Temporarily Closed
The east side of Lake View is closed temporarily due to storm damage.
Dangerous Swimming Conditions Today Danger
National Weather Service Alert: Dangerous Swimming Conditions The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for portions of Lake Michigan.

More Info

National Lakeshoreā€™s Tremont Picnic Area Closed for Paving Information
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshoreā€™s Tremont Picnic Area will be closed for a paving project. The picnic area, located at 25 East US Highway 12 will be closed starting at 7:00 a.m.Wednesday, August 3 and will reopen by 7:00 a.m.on August 31, 2016.
Partial Closures of Calumet Bike Trail Caution
Due to recent re-construction efforts, partial closures of the Calumet Bike Trail will be in effect through this fall and sometime next year. Please use caution if riding on the trail (see below) and off the trail (because of the closures).

More Info

West Beach is Cash ONLY Information
Sorry for the inconvenience. Our credit card reader is down. Until the problem is fixed, the Expanded Amenity fee for West Beach is Cash ONLY.
Central Avenue Beach Access is closed until further notice.
Last winterā€™s storms caused severe erosion and there is a dangerous 8-foot drop-off on the path to the beach. Heavy equipment will be brought in as soon as possible to create a safe path to the beach.
Phones are Down for Repair Information
The phones are down for repair at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Park Events

Trash Trekkers

Lend a hand in our drop-in litter clean up program. Simply check inĀ  at the Visitor Center or the Paul H. Doulas Center (weekends only)Ā to receive trash bags, then choose from one of our many beach areas or hiking trails to collect trash. Visitors are awaited with a free, reusable water bottle for filling up their bags. Please leave trash at a trash can on the site you hiked.

There will be temporary passes available for those volunteering during this event. For more information, visit ourĀ Fees & Passes page. Ā  This is part our drop-in program, a no-hassle volunteering option for those looking to give a few hours of their time. Ā  For other opportunities in volunteering at the Indiana Dunes National Park, please visitĀ The Park Connection volunteer page.

Location: Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304 ā€” Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 (WEEKENDS ONLY)

Date: Sep 1, 2024 12:00am to Sep 30, 2024 12:00am

Paid Event

Music Heritage Series Concert

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of music and melody with The Save the Tunes Council, a dedicated collective of local musicians, is passionate about keeping folk songs alive with an array of traditional instruments. Donā€™t miss this chance to experience the rich sounds and stories of our musical heritage!

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call (219) 395-1882 or visit ourĀ website.

Location: Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304

Date: Dec 20, 2024 12:00am to Dec 20, 2024 12:00am

Paid Event

Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg FarmĀ to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on hand to share the areaā€™s history.

Passes are required. For more information, visit theĀ Fees & Passes page.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, contact us or call (219) 395-1882.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of Indiana Dunes, a non-profit group that is dedicated to enhancing and foster understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes through the sponsorship of special educational programs and events throughout the park. For more information on how to get become a member, the Friends of Indiana Dunes' website.

Location: The Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm parking lot is located at 618 N Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304.

Date: Mar 16, 2025 12:00am to Mar 16, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Feeding at the Farm

Join volunteers and help feed the animals at the historic Chellberg Farm. This program is sponsored by Friends of Indiana Dunes. For more information on how to join, visit dunefriends.org.

This opportunity is part of our Farm & Garden Crew, where volunteers take care of the historic Chellberg Farm, including its buildings, animals, and resources.Ā 

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call 219-395-1882 or visit the park'sĀ website.

For other opportunities in volunteering at the Indiana Dunes National Park, please visit The Park ConnectionĀ volunteer program's web page.

Location: Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm, 618 N Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304

Date: May 24, 2025 12:00am to May 24, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg FarmĀ to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on hand to share the areaā€™s history.

Passes are required. For more information, visit theĀ Fees & Passes page.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, contact us or call (219) 395-1882.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of Indiana Dunes, a non-profit group that is dedicated to enhancing and foster understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes through the sponsorship of special educational programs and events throughout the park. For more information on how to get become a member, the Friends of Indiana Dunes' website.

Location: The Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm parking lot is located at 618 N Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304.

Date: Jun 7, 2025 12:00am to Jun 7, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Stargazing at Kemil Beach

Join Michiana Astronomical Society and fellow astronomy lovers to enjoy our night sky from one of the darkest spots in the Indiana Dunes National Park. Telescopes will be provided for your viewing pleasure. For safety purposes and to ensure parking, please arrive early.

Passes are required. For more information, visit theĀ Fees & Passes page.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call 219-395-1882 or visit ourĀ website.

Location: Kemil Beach Parking Lot: North of U.S. Highway 12 on East State Park Road (300E), Beverly Shores, IN 46301. Note: East State Park Road is called Kemil Road to the south of U.S. Highway 12.

Date: Jun 7, 2025 12:00am to Jun 7, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Roving Beach Rangers

Find rangers throughout National Park beach areas talking to visitors about being national park smart and water safety. Ask for a Junior Ranger activity sheet and earn a Junior Ranger sticker. Our beach rangers will help visitors have a more meaningful experience while promoting national park stewardship and safety.

Ā 

Location: Our Roving Beach Rangers will be roaming the beaches between Central and West Beach, Hope to see you there!

Date: Jun 15, 2025 12:00am to Jun 15, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Pinhook Bog Open House
Take a self-guided hike into Indianaā€™s only quaking bog. Rangers and volunteers stationed along the trail will help you understand this unique place filled with carnivorous plants and orchids. Ā  PLEASE NOTE: This event is split into 2 groups at 1 hour per group. Ā  Dogs are prohibited on bog trail for habitat protection.

Passes are required. For more information, visit theĀ Fees & Passes page.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call 219-395-1882 or visit ourĀ website.

Location: Pinhook Bog, 946 North Wozniak Road, LaPorte, IN 46360, Trailhead GPS Coordinates: 41.621214, -86.850227 (Decimal Degrees)

Date: Jun 15, 2025 12:00am to Jun 15, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Beginning Birding in Indiana Dunes

Join an expert birder to find the birding hotspot of the week. Visitors will follow the ranger in their own vehicle to the location and learn about the birds of that specific environment. Donā€™t forget to bring your own binoculars.

Passes are required. For more information, visit theĀ Fees & Passes page.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call 219-395-1882 or check the park's website.

Location: Indiana Dunes Visitor Center ā€” 1515 IN-49, Porter, IN, 46304 ā€” Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 20, Indiana State Road 49, and various other local roads. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located on Indiana State Road 49, between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94 (1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304). For a driving map to the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or other locations, check out our maps page.

Date: Jun 18, 2025 12:00am to Jun 18, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Lake Michigan Boat Tour
Join a ranger for a guided 90-minute boat tour on Lake Michigan with Harbor Country Adventures. There is a fee and reservations are required. Ā  For bookings and details, visitĀ Harbor Country Adventures websiteĀ and select "Riding with a Ranger Tour". Main Dock is located at Millenium Plaza along Trail Creek. Ā  There is limited free parking at 1 Washington St. Additional parking is available at Washington Park for a daily fee of $8. We are located directly behind the Lighthouse Museum and Fishcamp Restaurant.Ā 

Location: 1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360

Date: Jun 20, 2025 12:00am to Jun 20, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Visitor Center & Contacts

šŸ“ Physical Address:
1215 IN-49
Porter, IN 46304

šŸ¤ Mailing Address:
1100 North Mineral Springs Road
Porter, IN 46304

šŸ“ž Voice Phone: 2193951882

āœ‰ļø Email: indu_communications@nps.gov

Park Location

šŸ‘ Fun Fact
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