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

Indiana Dunes National Park

National Park · Indiana

Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia.

  • LocationPorter, IN
  • Entrance $25 private vehicle
  • HoursDaily, 6:00AM - 11:00PM
  • Weather now83°F Sunny
  • Alerts 9 active alerts

Overview

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 park’s 16,000 acres.

Topics
  • Animals
  • Archeology
  • Architecture and Building
  • Arts
  • Birds
  • Dunes
  • Fire
  • Lakes
4 more topics
  • Painting
  • Photography
  • Poetry and Literature
  • Trails
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Sunset at Indiana Dunes National Park — Rafi Wilkinson

Alerts (9)

Park ClosurePartial Trail Closures on Bailly / Chellberg Trail Portions of Bailly / Chellberg Trail (with stairs) will be closed through October (10/30/26), to allow completion of boa… Read more

Portions of Bailly / Chellberg Trail (with stairs) will be closed through October (10/30/26), to allow completion of boardwalk replacement project.

Park ClosurePartial Trail Closure - Dunewood Trace Partially open. Persistent flooding west of the campground currently limits access to the entire trail. Hikers may not a… Read more

Partially open. Persistent flooding west of the campground currently limits access to the entire trail. Hikers may not always be able to traverse the full length.

Park ClosureClosure - Hobart Woodland Trail

Closed. The Woodland Trail is closed indefinitely, and no reopening date is available. However, the paved Oak Savannah Trail remains open.

Park ClosurePartial Closure - Upland Trail

The middle boardwalk was lost due to a tree strike, making the full loop inaccessible. At this time, there is no timeline for replacement.

Park ClosureClosure - Heron Rookery Trail Closed. The trail is undergoing tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse. It is expected to reopen in the fa… Read more

Closed. The trail is undergoing tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse. It is expected to reopen in the fall, after mosquito activity decreases.

Park ClosurePartial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail Marquette Greenway construction will require closing sections of the Glenwood Dunes Trail (April–December 2026) and Litt… Read more

Marquette Greenway construction will require closing sections of the Glenwood Dunes Trail (April–December 2026) and Little Calumet River / Mnoké Prairie Trail (May–December 2026). Closure dates may shift as work progresses. Please follow all posted closures and check the park website or NPS App for updates.

More on NPS.gov about Partial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail (opens in a new tab)
CautionWater Safety Alert After recent storms, E. coli levels are likely to reach above safe swimming standards. Entering the water after heavy ra… Read more

After recent storms, E. coli levels are likely to reach above safe swimming standards. Entering the water after heavy rainfall is never recommended. Know before you go and always check our Beach Safety page before heading to park beaches.

More on NPS.gov about Water Safety Alert (opens in a new tab)
CautionPartial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional dam… Read more

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.

InformationOther Park Conditions and Updates

For more information on storm related repairs and other park conditions like beach and hiking safety visit our park status page.

More on NPS.gov about Other Park Conditions and Updates (opens in a new tab)

Things to Do

12 experiences from the National Park Service. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.

Showing 1 of 1

All 35 activities in the park

Pick one to find other parks that offer it.

Show 23 more activities

Camping

5 campgrounds listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.

  • The water laps upon the shoreline at Central Avenue Beach.

    Central Avenue Walk-in Sites

    Reservable Campground

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    Golf Wood Road, Beverly Shores, IN 219-395-1882 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Swimming
    • Backpacking
    • Wilderness
    Details

    Fees: $25 per night camping fee (this is an expanded amenity fee which is separate from the entrnace fee). A valid entrance pass or receipt is requried for all visitors. You may pay upon arrival or purchase in advance. Indiana Dunes honors…

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

    As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    The Central Beach Walk-In Sites has 5 sites that will require a walk to get to your campsite. There is a vault toilet by the Central Beach Parking Lot. There is no drinkable water in the area so you must bring your own water. There is a Picnic table and a fire pit at each site.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.  

    The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource. 

    For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan is located nearby, less than 5,000 feet (1524 m) from the campground.

    Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance.

    A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12.

    The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue.

    Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (camping reservations cancelled the day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus a forfeiture of the first night's use fee. 

    For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies. 

  • A green pasture with an old farm building against a backdrop of fall colors

    Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters

    Reservable Campground

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    618 North Mineral Springs Road (North 100 West), Porter, IN 219-395-1882 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Backpacking
    • Guided Interpretive Walks
    • Historic & Cultural Site
    Details

    Fees: Shelter 1 at the Chellberg Farm costs $50 per day. It is a larger shelter and has electricity. Shelters 2 and 3 are smaller and do not have electricity. A valid entrance pass or receipt is requried for all visitors. You may pay upon…

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    A short (50 sec) video description of the picnic area at Chellberg Farm is available on the park website

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

    As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    Please visit our website at https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/west-beach.htm for facility information.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.  

    The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource. 

    For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Chellburg Farmhouse is open to the public during festivals, demonstrations, and ranger-guided tours. Contact the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or the park calendar for dates and times.

    There is so much to do we can't list it all here! Be sure to also check the Nearby Attractions page on our park website. 

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation 14 days in advance prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time will also incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (group shelter reservations cancelled less than 14 days before arriaval) will forfeit the entire use fee. 

    For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies.  

  • A visitor walks in the sunshine along the shore at Dunbar Beach with trees above the dunes

    Dunbar Group Site

    Reservable Campground

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    219-395-1882 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Boating
    • Biking
    • Swimming
    Details

    Fees: The group camping fee is $100 per night. There is no discount for senior or access pass holders on group sites. A valid entrance pass or receipt is require for all visitors. You may pay upon arrival or purchase in advance. Indiana Dunes…

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

    As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    • Tent Only Nonelectric

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.  

    The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource. 

    For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Dunbar Beach, situated along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, is approximately 0.2 miles (.32 km) from the group camp site. 

    Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. 

    Do NOT park in the Town of Beverly Shores' beach parking lot, which is located just to the east of the Lake View lot. You will get ticketed. The town strictly enforces parking laws.

    A gas station / convenience store is located ¼ mile north of the campground at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue. 

    The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue, ¼ mile (.4 km) north of the campground. 

    Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Customers who cancel a group site reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

  • Lake Michigan at Sunset in Indiana Dunes National Park cropped

    Dunewood Campground

    Reservable Campground

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    Golf Wood Road, Beverly Shores, IN 219-395-1882 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Boating
    • Biking
    Details

    Fees: $25.00 per night camping fee. This fee is separate from the park entrance fee. A valid entrance pass or receipt is required for all visitors. You may pay upon arrival or purchase in advance. Indiana Dunes honors Federal interagency passes…

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests. 

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

    As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    The Dunewood Campground in the Indiana Dunes National Park has 66 campsites (54 drive-in sites and 12 walk-in sites; 4 sites are fully accessible). We have nice restrooms and showers. There are no electric or water hookups. The campground has accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. Some sites are limited on recreational vehicle length (please read each campsite description carefully).

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead ) are located within its boundaries.   

    The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.  

    For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website. 

    Nearby Attractions

    Located close to the campground is Lake View Beach on Lake Michigan which is located 1.5 miles north of the campground.

    Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance.

    Do NOT park in the Town of Beverly Shores' beach parking lot, which is located just to the east of the Lake View lot. You will get ticketed. The town is very strict.

    A gas station / convenience store is located ¼ mile north of the campground at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue.

    The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue, ¼ mile north of the campground.

    Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

Show 1 more campground
  • West Beach

    West Beach Picnic Shelters

    Reservable Campground

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    1100 NORTH MINERAL SPRINGS ROAD, PORTER, IN 219-395-1882 Directions

    • Swimming
    • Accessible Swimming
    • Backpacking
    • Guided Interpretive Walks
    Details

    Fees: The West Beach picnic shelters are $25 each. A valid entrance pass or receipt is required for all visitors. You may pay upon arrival or purchase in advance. Indiana Dunes also honors Federal interagency passes (annual, senior, access, 4th…

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests. 

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

    As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs. 

    Facilities

    West Beach offers eight universally accessible picnic shelters. Seasonal restrooms and potable water are available at the picnic area from mid-May through mid-October, while year-round restrooms and potable water are available at the contact station. A bathhouse with showers and lockers is open seasonally. The West Beach parking lot has 596 spots including 20 bus/RV parking sites. Please note the lot may fill up on holiday weekends.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead ) are located within its boundaries.   

    The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.  

    For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website. 

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit the Nearby Attractions page on the park website.

    Charges & Cancellations

Facilities & Services

Find tours, tickets and other services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.

Tours & Tickets

  • Indiana Dunes National Park Programs and Tours

    Ticket Facility

    The "Art in the Park" series of events is hosted by the Indiana Dunes National Park in partnership with the Art Barn School of Art. Classes are open to adult beginners…

    Details
    The "Art in the Park" series of events is hosted by the Indiana Dunes National Park in partnership with the Art Barn School of Art. Classes are open to adult beginners, and accessible to those with physical limitations and each session features a different theme related to the National Park or dunes. Art Barn instructor Dori Huber will guide students through the process of painting a scene inspired by the dunes. By coming together our organizations are collectively able to accomplish a common goal of reaching more individuals through cultural programming that links art and nature together at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education.

Other Visitor Services

  • Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

    Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center (Indiana Dunes Visitor Center)

    Facility

    View lobby displays and pick up brochures about Porter County, Indiana, Dunes State Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park. Enjoy educational displays and watch two short…

    Details
    View lobby displays and pick up brochures about Porter County, Indiana, Dunes State Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park. Enjoy educational displays and watch two short orientation videos. Shop in the Eastern National bookstore. The visitor center is open everyday with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
  • Douglas Center Entrance

    Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education

    Facility

    The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education is your gateway to the stunning Paul H. Douglas Trail through Miller Woods. This facility connects you to the…

    Details
    The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education is your gateway to the stunning Paul H. Douglas Trail through Miller Woods. This facility connects you to the natural environment through educational hands-on exhibits, ranger-guided hikes, lectures, animals, crafts, and a Nature Play Zone. Open hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Central Time and is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Daily, 6:00AM - 11:00PM · Indiana Dunes National Park general areas

Hours by area (2)
  • Indiana Dunes National Park general areasDaily, 6:00AM - 11:00PM

    The general areas of the park are open year-round. Please check individual areas for specific hours of operation.

    Monday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Tuesday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Wednesday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Thursday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Friday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Saturday6:00AM - 11:00PM
    Sunday6:00AM - 11:00PM
  • West BeachDaily, 6:00AM - 9:00PM

    West Beach hours of operation

    Monday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Tuesday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Wednesday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Thursday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Friday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Saturday6:00AM - 9:00PM
    Sunday6:00AM - 9:00PM

Entrance fees

  • $25Private Vehicle
  • $20Motorcycle
  • $15Per Person
All 7 fees & details
  • Motorcycle$20

    Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.

  • Private Vehicle$25

    7-Day Park Entrance Fee - Family-Size Vehicle Per private family-sized vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase).

  • Per Person$15

    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.

  • Commercial Entrance - Sedan$25

    Entry for commercial sedans with 6 or less people. Cost is $25.00 plus $15 per person (not to exceed next highest rate).

  • Commercial Entrance - Van$40

    Commercial Tour Fee - Van (7-15 persons) - $40.00 Entry for commercial vans with 7-15 people.

  • Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus$40

    Commercial Tour Fee - Mini Bus (16-25 persons) - $40.00 Entry for commercial mini bus with 16-25 people.

  • Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach$100

    Commercial Tour Fee - Motor Coach (26+ persons) - $100.00 Entry for commercial motor coaches with 26+ persons.

Passes

  • $45Annual Entrance - Park
Pass details
  • 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.

Address

1215 IN-49
Porter, IN 46304

Weather & conditions

83°F
Sunny · feels like 83°
  • Today 85° 60°
    Sunny
    17% rain
  • Tomorrow 83° 65°
    Sunny
    64% rain
  • Wednesday 69° 57°
    Overcast
    93% rain

Updated 3 hr ago

What to expect by season

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.

Upcoming Events

10 coming up
  • Movie - Indiana Dunes: Nature's Masterpiece - Visitor Center

    Oct 12, 2026 · 09:00 AM–04:00 PM · through Oct 31 Indoor theater at Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304 Free

  • Trash Trekkers: Visitor Center

    Oct 12, 2026 · 09:00 AM–04:00 PM · through Oct 31 Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304 Free

  • Movie - Indiana Dunes: Nature's Masterpiece - Douglas Center

    Oct 14, 2026 · 09:30 AM–03:30 PM · through Oct 31 Indoor theater at the Paul H. Douglas Center, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 Free

  • Movie - Indiana Dunes: Nature's Masterpiece - Douglas Center

    Oct 14, 2026 · 09:30 AM–03:30 PM · through Oct 31 Indoor theater at the Paul H. Douglas Center, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 Free

Show 6 more events
  • Super Kids Scavenger Hunt

    Oct 14, 2026 · 09:30 AM–03:30 PM · through Oct 31 Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 Free

  • Trash Trekkers: Douglas Center

    Oct 14, 2026 · 09:00 AM–04:00 PM · through Oct 31 Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 (WEEKENDS ONLY) Free

  • Music Heritage Series Concert

    Oct 16, 2026 · 07:30 PM–09:00 PM · through Dec 18 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). GPS Coordinates: 41.633349, -87.053762 (Decimal Degrees). Free

  • Chellberg Farm Care

    Oct 17, 2026 · 09:00 AM–12:00 PM Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm, 618 N Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304 Free

  • Chellberg Farm Open House

    Oct 17, 2026 · 01:00 PM–03:00 PM · through Oct 31 The Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm parking lot is located at 618 N Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304.

  • Miller Woods Hike

    Oct 17, 2026 · 01:00 PM–03:00 PM Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, 100 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403 Free

Photos

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Getting There

1215 IN-49
Porter, IN 46304

Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S.

Full directions

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.

Mailing address: 1100 North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304

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