Indiana Dunes State Park Tours

Photo provided by Indiana Office of Tourism Development
Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park
Photo by Susan Ross


The southern shores of Lake Michigan consist of a stunning dune landscape, which is ideal for hiking, camping, bird-watching, picnicking and swimming.

Explore the ancient landscapes of Indiana Dunes State Park, bound on the northwest by pristine Lake Michigan. Formed after the lake’s water levels dropped at the end of the Ice Age, the region’s dunes have slowly shifted and grown over with lush vegetation. The nature reserve consists of 2,182 acres (883 hectares) of extraordinary sand dunes and unique geology, making it an unrivaled destination for recreation and nature experiences in the state.

A great way to start your exploration of Indiana Dunes State Park is with a visit to the reserve’s Nature Center. Look through the center’s wildlife observation windows and learn about the region’s vegetation with the help of interpretive displays. The dunes’ intriguing formation over thousands of years has meant that ancient vegetation is sometimes revealed when the dunes shift.

Check out the Beach House Blowout, the Furnessville Blowout or the Big Blowout, which shows the old tree stumps of primeval forests. Learn about the Potawatomi and Miami Native American people who traveled over the dunes as part of their traditional trade routes.

Birdwatchers will delight in the park’s observation towers. Spot wetland species from an observation tower overlooking marshland or climb the platform near the summit of Mount Tom. From here, you can see all the way to Chicago, as well as Gary, Indiana, on a clear day.

Explore 16 miles (26 kilometers) of hiking trails, which showcase the park’s different ecosystems and historic structures. Picnic shelters are available at several sites in the park.

If the weather is warm, enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, lifeguards patrol this beach on weekends. Stop at the beachside concession stand for last-minute snacks and supplies. Fish for smelt along the lakeshore.

Indiana Dunes State Park is located on the state’s northwestern border. It is about 160 miles (260 kilometers) from Indianapolis and 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Chicago, Illinois. The park is open daily and charges a fee for entry and campsite reservations.

Plan a trip to see Indiana Dunes State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Chicago Magnificent Mile
Park Hyatt Chicago
The Langham, Chicago

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Indiana Dunes State Park

(2 Nt Min!) Beautiful Home Close To Lake Beach and National Park!

(2 Nt Min!) Beautiful Home Close To Lake Beach and National Park!

Porter
(2 Nt Min!) Beautiful Home Close To Lake Beach and National Park!
Cabin 53 steps from Porter Beach on Lake Michigan: Family & Pet-Friendly

Cabin 53 steps from Porter Beach on Lake Michigan: Family & Pet-Friendly

Porter
Cabin 53 steps from Porter Beach on Lake Michigan: Family & Pet-Friendly
Spring House Inn

Spring House Inn

2.5 out of 5
303 N Mineral Springs Rd, Chesterton, IN
Spring House Inn
Waterbird Lakeside Inn

Waterbird Lakeside Inn

2 out of 5
556 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN
Waterbird Lakeside Inn
Best Western Indian Oak

Best Western Indian Oak

2.5 out of 5
558 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN
Best Western Indian Oak
"The Nook"- ROOMY Home 2mi- Dunes & Chesterton, Yard, Fire Pit, Grill, Game Room

"The Nook"- ROOMY Home 2mi- Dunes & Chesterton, Yard, Fire Pit, Grill, Game Room

Porter
"The Nook"- ROOMY Home 2mi- Dunes & Chesterton, Yard, Fire Pit, Grill, Game Room
Furness Mansion

Furness Mansion

2 out of 5
1491 N Furnleigh Ln, Chesterton, IN
Furness Mansion
Fairbridge Inn Express Chesterton

Fairbridge Inn Express Chesterton

2 out of 5
713 Plaza Dr., Chesterton, IN
Fairbridge Inn Express Chesterton
2 miles from Dunes National Park. A Unique Boutique Hotel.

2 miles from Dunes National Park. A Unique Boutique Hotel.

Chesterton
2 miles from Dunes National Park. A Unique Boutique Hotel.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Indiana Dunes State Park

At Indiana Dunes State Park, visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and hiking along scenic trails. The park features designated picnic areas and even a dog-friendly beach for furry companions. Nearby attractions include tours in Indianapolis, making it easy to explore the vibrant city after a day of outdoor adventures. Whether you're hiking or relaxing by the water, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful natural setting.

Food and drinks

For a delightful experience, visit Shady Creek Winery, 13 miles away, for local wines in a romantic setting. Anderson's Winery, only 8 miles away, offers a similar vibe. Don't miss Albanese Candy Factory, 17 miles away, perfect for sweet treats with a family-friendly atmosphere.

Shopping

For shopping near Indiana Dunes State Park, visit Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, just 9 miles away, offering a variety of stores. If you're up for a drive, check out Westfield Southlake Mall, located 19 miles away, and Garwood Orchards, a charming store 13 miles away.

Recreation

At Marquette Park, enjoy serene nature walks and relaxing picnics amidst lush landscapes, just 11 miles from Indiana Dunes State Park. The Course at Aberdeen and Lyon Oaks Golf Course, both within 15 and 14 miles respectively, offer invigorating golf experiences in beautiful outdoor settings for sports enthusiasts.

Adventure

At Cowles Bog Trailhead, located 2 miles from Indiana Dunes State Park, embark on a scenic hike through diverse ecosystems. Experience breathtaking views and the thrill of spotting wildlife as you traverse this picturesque trail, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Nightlife

In Indiana Dunes State Park, the nightlife offers excitement at Blue Chip Casino, just 10 miles away, where romance and casino energy thrive. For a cultural experience, head to Chicago Street Theatre, 13 miles away, showcasing family-friendly performances. Adventure awaits at Team Combat LIVE, 17 miles away, perfect for family fun.

Find the best attractions near Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park offers a fantastic blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan, explore the diverse landscapes of the national park, and take in the scenic views. The area is perfect for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or educational opportunities at nearby modern colleges and universities. Don't miss the chance to discover the unique charm of the Indiana Dunes region!

  • Indiana Dunes National Park: Just 0.7 miles away, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor adventures. Hike along sandy trails, explore diverse ecosystems, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan.
  • Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: Located 2 miles from the state park, this visitor center is perfect for families. Get insights into local wildlife, participate in interactive exhibits, and join guided tours for an enriching outdoor experience.
  • Kemil Beach: A unique experience awaits at this nudist beach, 3 miles away. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing by the water in a peaceful environment.

Best time to go to Indiana Dunes State Park

The best time to visit Indiana Dunes State Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January26.1°F (-3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February27.5°F (-2.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
July72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September66.0°F (18.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Indiana Dunes State Park

To save money on your trip to Indiana Dunes State Park, consider visiting between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Enjoy free activities at nearby Lake View Beach, Kemil Beach, and Dune Acres Beach. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotels and filter prices from lowest to highest. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for additional savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards. Always check for flexible booking options and the latest prices to ensure you get the best deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotel choices currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider maximizing your savings by combining your hotel stay at Indiana Dunes State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package. This way, you can enjoy a well-rounded travel experience while keeping costs down.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.