Michigan Lake beach with green grassy dunes in the background, under a blue sky.

National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park

visit on nps.gov

Info

Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the park’s 16,000 acres.

Park Photos

Michigan Lake beach with green grassy dunes in the background, under a blue sky.
1 of 8

Central Avenue Beach at low water levels, spring 2006.

Credit: NPS Photo

Michigan Lake beach with green grassy dunes in the background, under a blue sky.
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Prairie in Bloom
Porter Beach Access Point
Central Beach
Sunset at Lake View
Peace on Lake Michigan

Activities

  • Arts and Culture
  • Cultural Demonstrations
  • Auto and ATV
  • Scenic Driving
  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • RV Camping
  • Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Self-Guided Tours - Auto
  • Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Paddling
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Stand Up Paddleboarding
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Playground
  • Skiing
  • Cross-Country Skiing
  • Snow Play
  • Snowshoeing
  • Swimming
  • Freshwater Swimming
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Park Film
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store

Fees

Passes

Operating Hours

The general areas of the park are open year-round. Please check individual areas for specific hours of operation.

DayHours
Wednesday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Monday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Thursday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Sunday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Tuesday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Friday
6:00AM - 11:00PM
Saturday
6:00AM - 11:00PM

West Beach hours of operation

DayHours
Wednesday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Monday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Thursday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Sunday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Tuesday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Friday
6:00AM - 9:00PM
Saturday
6:00AM - 9:00PM

Weather info

On average, the warmest month is July and the highest recorded temperature was 105F in 1934. The coolest month is January, with the lowest recorded temperature of -25F in 1985. June sees the most precipitation with an average rainfall of 4.66 Inches.

Events