Overview
Indiana Dunes National Park is the only national park in Indiana and one of the most accessible national parks from a major city—located just 50 miles southeast of Chicago. The park protects 15,000 acres of sand dunes along Lake Michigan, ranging from small mounds to the 200-foot-tall Mt.
Beach · Day Trips · Museums · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Only NPS campground is Dunewood ($25/night, 66 sites, first-come). Hotels in Chesterton, Michigan City, Portage. State park has separate camping.
Connectivity
Cell service generally good near Chicago metro. No park WiFi. Standard US 120V electrical outlets.
Fees
National park entrance costs $25/car, $20/motorcycle, $15/person (foot/bike). Valid 7 days. America the Beautiful Pass accepted. State park requires separate fee.
Food
Zero food services inside park. Bring supplies. Restaurants available in nearby towns at I-94 interchanges.
Safety
No lifeguards at beaches. Watch for riptides. No walking on winter pack ice. Massasauga rattlesnakes in forested areas—rare and non-aggressive.
Transport
No direct public transit to park. Nearest train: South Shore Line to Dune Park station. Rent car or use rideshare from there. Highway 12 and State Roads 49/20 provide car access.
Weather
Summer highs 77-82°F; winter lows 17-24°F. Even rainfall year-round. Beach season Memorial Day-Labor Day. Winter brings pack ice.