South County
There's More for You in Indiana
Southern Porter County is the quintessential small-town Middle America experience. Things run a little slower here, and a friendly wave or smile is part of the charm.
The towns of Hebron and Kouts in South County are about sharing stories with friends at the local diner or exploring the archives at the historically important, official Carnegie Library. They’re also about secret family recipes, agriculture, and quality schools.
Southern Spirit
Play in South County
Get a taste of local life. Dive into a piece of old-fashioned pie at The Country Kitchen, grab a “Land and Sea” dinner at Tres Amigos Mexican, explore Drazer Park, or launch your boat, kayak, or line into the Kankakee River.
Railroads and stagecoaches have played a major role in the area’s development, a history which visitors can see honored at the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot museum.
Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak and fish on the Kankakee River, hike through the woodlands of Stoney Run County Park, and witness the epic migration of sandhill cranes.
Economic Development
But don’t think South County is stuck in the past. Expect modern technology like fiber internet, industrial parks for business opportunities, and a thriving agricultural corridor. New facilities for medical, business, and recreational purposes show their commitment to progress.
Small-town life in Hebron and Kouts doesn't mean small ideas. Here, you'll find your next big opportunity.
Hebron
It may be small in size, but it’s big in pioneering spirit. Once an open prairie set along the beautiful Kankakee River, Hebron is now a town that celebrates its history with each charmingly preserved downtown building and museum.
Kouts
Close your eyes and imagine a Midwestern farming town. Now you’ve got a pretty good idea of Kouts. Driving in, you’ll pass vast green and yellow fields dotted with barns and silos before making your way to Main Street, where local restaurants serve up everything from hearty breakfasts to great pizzas.
Explore South County
Explore the Town of Hebron
Hebron is a town in Boone Township, Porter County, Indiana. The population was 3,724 at the 2010 census.
Discover the Town of Kouts
Kouts is a town in Pleasant Township, Porter County, Indiana. The population was 2,028 at the 2020 census.
Meet the Hebron Chamber
The Hebron Chamber of Commerce serves its members and the business community of Hebron, Indiana, and the Northwest Indiana region.
Visit the Indiana Dunes
Tales from South County
West Beach – Indiana Dunes
- 3 minute read
Located on the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan, West Beach is a popular and unique public beach with a collection…
Where to Eat Near the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival
- 2 minute read
The Indiana Dunes Birding Festival happens each May when migrating birds converge near the southern coast of Lake…
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
- 5 minute read
It’s December, and I find myself singing along to all the holiday songs on the radio and playing in the…
Discovering Beauty on the 3 Dune Challenge
- 3 minute read
Take your leaf peeping to a whole new level with the 3 Dune Challenge (Trail 8) at the Indiana Dunes State Park…
Top Eight Reasons to Go to the Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival
- 4 minute read
Each fall, local organizations come together to lead over 100 events in ten days to celebrate the wide variety of…
Accessible Adventures in the Indiana Dunes
- 5 minute read
Accessible Adventures in the Indiana Dunes Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether…
Amazing Birding at the Indiana Dunes
- 2 minute read
For great springtime birding, there's no place like the Indiana Dunes. More than 350 bird species live or…
Book a Place to Stay
Bed & Breakfasts
Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…
Hotels & Inns
A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…
Indiana Dunes
Learn About the Indiana Dunes
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 perfect hiking trail for your skill level.
Want to know even more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel, where you’ll learn fun facts about one of America’s most ecologically diverse areas.