Backpacks for Naturalists
Sign Up and Borrow a Free Explorer Backpack
The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse parks in the U.S., and the Backpacks for Naturalists program offers free explorer backpacks for daily use. Each backpack contains binoculars, field guides, activity ideas, and other useful items for your adventure.
Visit any of the locations below for a backpack. Just leave your name and contact information.
Find a Backpack at One of These Locations:
Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton | 219-926-1390
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
1215 N. State Rd. 49, Porter | 219-926-2255
Kankakee Sands Office
3294 N. U.S. 41, Morocco | 219-285-2184
Gabis Arboretum at PNW
450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso | 219-462-0025
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
100 N. Lake St., Miller | 219-395-1824
Porter County Parks and Recreation
775 Meridian Rd., Valparaiso | 219-465-3641
Shirley Heinze Land Trust: Meadowbrook Nature Preserve
109 W. 700 North, Valparaiso | 219-242-8558
Looking for More Outdoor Adventures?
Bicycling
Calling all leisure riders, mountain bikers, road warriors, and BMX enthusiasts. No matter your…
Birding
Few places in the Midwest rival the Indiana Dunes area for birding.
Fishing
Fishing season? Try seasons . With this many inland lakes, creeks, shorelines, and deep…
Hiking
Lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes. Of course, you won’t really be…
Paddling
Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add coastlines, dunes, trails, and plenty of water. Luckily…
Wandering
Why hurry? Take the time to wander and let your senses take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the…
Explore the Dunes Your Way
We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring the Backpacks for Naturalists program to you. We’d especially like to thank Friends of Indiana Dunes for their support.
We hope you’ll take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore all the Indiana Dunes area has to offer.