Camping at Indiana Dunes State Park
Overview of Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park is located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Northwestern Indiana and is an extension of the Indiana Dunes National Park. This beautiful natural area offers a unique landscape of dunes, forests, wetlands, and prairies, as well as over three miles of beach along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
Camping Information
Campsites: Indiana Dunes State Park features a campground with 140 campsites available for tents and RVs. Each site comes equipped with electric hookups, a picnic table, and a fire ring. There are also a number of modern restrooms, shower buildings, and a camp store.
Reservations: It is highly recommended to reserve your campsite in advance due to the popularity of the park, especially during summer months. Reservations can be made online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources reservation system or by calling the reservation service.
Camping Season: The campgrounds are usually open from early spring through late fall. Exact dates may vary each year, and some facilities may be limited during the off-season.
Amenities:
- Electrical & modern restrooms
- Shower facilities
- Camp store
- Dump station
- Potable water
Camping Rules:
- Quiet hours are typically enforced from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Alcohol is prohibited in all Indiana state parks.
- Pets must be kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet.
- Fires are only allowed in designated areas or fire rings.
- All campers must register upon arrival.
Recreational Activities
Hiking: The park boasts over 15 miles of trails, which range in difficulty from easy, family-friendly strolls to more challenging hikes up the sand dunes.
Swimming: Swimming is allowed on the designated beach areas; however, there are no lifeguards, so swimmers should be cautious and swim at their own risk.
Nature Center: The park’s Nature Center offers educational programs, exhibits, and interactive experiences for visitors.
Bird Watching: Due to its prime location along the migratory paths of many bird species, Indiana Dunes is an excellent spot for bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
Fishing: Anglers can fish in Lake Michigan or the nearby streams and rivers. A valid Indiana fishing license is required.
Picnicking: There are picnic areas throughout the park, complete with tables and grills.
Area Attractions
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: Before exploring the dunes, visitors may want to stop at the Visitor Center to learn more about the area and pick up maps.
Nearby Towns: The nearby towns of Chesterton and Porter offer additional dining, shopping, and lodging options for visitors.
Remember that park conditions and rules can change due to management decisions or weather events. It's always a good idea to check the latest park information before making your trip, either by visiting the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website or by contacting the park directly.
