What To Know
- If you’re just looking to get a taste of the park, you can easily spend a day or two hiking the trails, swimming in the lake, or exploring the dunes.
- The Dune Succession Trail is a great option for a short hike that will give you a good overview of the park’s different habitats.
- If you have three or more days to spend at Indiana Dunes, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all that the park has to offer.
Indiana Dunes National Park is a beautiful and diverse natural area on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. With over 15,000 acres of land to explore, there’s something for everyone at Indiana Dunes. But how much time should you plan to spend there?
The answer depends on your interests and how much time you have available. If you’re just looking to get a taste of the park, you can easily spend a day or two hiking the trails, swimming in the lake, or exploring the dunes. But if you want to really experience all that the park has to offer, you’ll need to plan for at least a few days.
One Day at Indiana Dunes
If you only have one day to spend at Indiana Dunes, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Morning: Arrive at the park early and start your day with a hike on one of the many trails. The Dune Succession Trail is a great option for a short hike that will give you a good overview of the park’s different habitats.
- Afternoon: After your hike, head to the beach for a swim or some sunbathing. The water is usually warm enough to swim in from June to September.
- Evening: End your day with a campfire at one of the park’s designated fire pits. S’mores are a must!
Two Days at Indiana Dunes
If you have two days to spend at Indiana Dunes, you’ll have more time to explore the park’s many attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Follow the itinerary for Day 1 above.
- Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the park’s cultural history at the Chellberg Farm Living History Museum. In the afternoon, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle out onto Lake Michigan.
Three Days or More at Indiana Dunes
If you have three or more days to spend at Indiana Dunes, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all that the park has to offer. Here are a few ideas for additional activities:
- Visit the Bailly Homestead: This historic site was once home to a fur trader and his family. Today, you can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the area.
- Go for a bike ride: The park has over 50 miles of bike trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
- Take a guided tour: The park offers a variety of guided tours, including hikes, bike rides, and boat tours.
- Attend a ranger program: The park rangers offer a variety of educational programs throughout the year.
What Time of Year is Best to Visit Indiana Dunes?
Indiana Dunes is a beautiful place to visit year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Indiana Dunes?
The entrance fee to Indiana Dunes National Park is $25 per vehicle. The fee is good for seven days. You can also purchase an annual pass for $55.
Where to Stay Near Indiana Dunes
There are a variety of lodging options available near Indiana Dunes National Park. Here are a few suggestions:
- Camping: There are several campgrounds located within the park.
- Hotels: There are several hotels located in the towns of Chesterton and Michigan City.
- Vacation rentals: There are a number of vacation rentals available in the area.
Questions You May Have
Q: What are the hours of operation for Indiana Dunes National Park?
A: The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Q: Are pets allowed in Indiana Dunes National Park?
A: Pets are only allowed in designated areas of the park.
Q: Is there a fee to enter Indiana Dunes National Park?
A: Yes, the entrance fee is $25 per vehicle.
