Explore the Dunes

Our stories are written across every mile of beach, forest, and meandering trail. Hear them in the haunting call of the loon and the snap of branches on the woodland floor. See them in the crisscross tracks of trains past and carved moldings of historic buildings. Feel it with every warm hello and sandy toe that greets you on our friendly shores. Want to know more about the Indiana Dunes? Just ask, we’re not shy.

Aerial view of the shoreline. The water is a deep blue. The sand changes to beach grass and eventually trees.

Indiana Dunes National Park

When it comes to our newly minted national park, it’s a numbers game. It’s 15,000 acres of unadulterated adventure; 1,100 flowering plants; 350 species of birds; 50 miles of trails over dunes…

A wooden staircase leading down towards the water

Indiana Dunes State Park

Serving up adventure since 1925. With over 2,000 acres of stunning terrain to explore, discover our Hoosier landscape from beaches and sand dunes to wetlands and ancient forests.

Getting Here

Before you lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes, you’re going to want to find us. Of course, finding us is easy. The hard part will be leaving.

Dunes 101

Join Ranger Matt in our Dunes 101 Series to explore everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes, including how to make the most out of your beach experience, where to camp, and the…

Explore Our Communities

Find it in the friendly streets of small towns like Hebron, the charming downtown festivals and markets of Chesterton, the world-class arts scene of Valparaiso, and warm summer days spent on…

Visitor Center

The best way to live like a local is to learn from a local. Our Visitor Center offers everything you need to learn more about the Indiana Dunes area with the added assistance of our super…

Plants and Wildlife 4 days ago

A jumping spider with black eyes sits on a finger

Why We Should Try to Appreciate Spiders

5 minute read

Did you know that the first week of April is National Be Kind to Spiders Week? To be kind to spiders (that is, to resist all instincts to squish them), one must first appreciate spiders, which…

9 days ago

Three people stand in front of a green and brown building. The woman has her hands raised in excitement. She is holding a black trash bag.

Trash Trekkers Drop-In Volunteering

3 minute read

You’re invited to help be a part of preserving and protecting the Indiana Dunes by volunteering during your visit. And the best part is, there are no applications to fill out and you…

Beaches 9 days ago

Where are the Indiana Dunes beaches?

5 minute read

The Indiana Dunes beaches get a lot of attention—and for good reason! Many people consider the 15-mile coastline to be among the best beaches in the world. Visiting an Indiana Dunes…