Camping at NORTH ORCHARD SHELTER

Basic Information

North Orchard Shelter is a designated picnic and gathering area within Indiana Dunes State Park, which is located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Chesterton, Indiana, USA. The state park offers 2,182 acres of beautiful dunes, forests, wetlands, and beaches. It is a popular destination for hikers, bird watchers, and beach-goers.

Features and Amenities

The shelter typically provides:

• Picnic tables and seating: The shelter is likely equipped with multiple picnic tables to accommodate groups.
• Grill: There might be a grill available for cooking out, but you should bring your own charcoal and grilling utensils.
• Shade: The shelter offers a reprieve from the sun on hot days.
• Proximity to park features: It's usually close to trails, restrooms, and other park amenities.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservation required: It’s likely that you need to reserve the North Orchard Shelter in advance, especially during peak season and weekends.
• Fees: There is likely a reservation fee for the shelter. Fees can vary, so check the current rates when planning your visit.

Rules and Regulations

• Capacity limits: There will be a maximum capacity for the number of people allowed at the shelter.
• Alcohol policy: Alcohol consumption might be regulated within the park.
• Pet policy: Pets are often allowed in state parks, but they must be on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Quiet hours: There may be established quiet hours to minimize disturbances to wildlife and other visitors.

Activities Nearby

• Hiking: Indiana Dunes State Park features over 16.5 miles of trails through dunes, forests, and along the beach.
• Swimming: Enjoy the freshwater of Lake Michigan on the designated swimming beaches.
• Nature observation: The park is a great place for birding and observing other wildlife.
• Educational programs: The park often hosts interpretive and educational programs throughout the year.

Arrival and Access

• Parking: There is generally parking available near the shelter, but it can fill up on busy days.
• Entry Fees: Apart from the shelter reservation fee, there may be an entrance fee to the park itself.

Preparation and Safety

• Check weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions along the lake.
• Dress appropriately: Bring clothing suitable for the season and activities you're planning.
• Leave no trace: Dispose of waste properly and leave the shelter and surrounding area as you found it or better.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the Indiana Dunes State Park directly:

• Phone: Look up the current phone number for the park office.
• Website: Indiana Dunes State Park's official website will provide details on reservations, fees, and park maps.
• Address: 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN 46304, USA for in-person inquiries.

Additional Tips

• Book in advance: Especially during the summer and on weekends, shelters can be booked well in advance.
• Accessibility: Check if the shelter meets any accessibility requirements you might have.
• Local attractions: Consider exploring the nearby Indiana Dunes National Park for additional recreational opportunities.