Indiana Dunes National Park

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.

National ParkDesignation
INState
65°FTemperature
AQI 34Good
LIVE · SYNCED FROM THE NPS

In the park right now

Park Closure Trail Closure - Dunewood Trace

Temporary closure of the Dunewood Trace trail (2.2 miles), between Kemil Rd, and the Dunewood Campground (near the recycle bins), is now in effect until further notice due to construction of the new Marquette Greenway trail.

Park Closure Partial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail

Marquette Greenway construction will require closing sections of the Glenwood Dunes Trail (April–December 2026) and Little Calumet River / Mnoké Prairie Trail (May–December 2026). Closure dates may shift as work...

More →
Park Closure Hobart Woodland Trail Temporary Closure

Hobart Woodland is closed until further notice while park crews work to clear several downed trees that are creating hazardous conditions for visitors.

Caution Partial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk

Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional damage. This trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. Pier access...

65°F
OvernightClear💨 0 mph
Thursday79°Sunny
Thursday Night65°Mostly Cloudy
Friday80°Rain Showers Likely
NOAA · api.weather.gov
34
AIR QUALITY · AQI Good Main pollutant: PM2.5
as of Jul 30, 03:00 UTC AirNow.gov · EPA/NOAA/NPS
SLEEP CLOSE TO THE GATE · HONEST LOCATION MATH

Where to stay

Which side of Indiana Dunes National Park actually saves you drive time — with live rates, not "top-10 from nowhere".

🏕️ In-park & campgrounds

Wake up inside the gate — first light at the trailhead, no morning commute.

Check availability →

🛏️ Gateway-town hotels

Rooms minutes from the entrance with pools, breakfast and parking.

Check rates →

🚐 RV & camper vans

Bring the room with you — 63 parks from your own window.

Find a camper →

PARTNER LINKS · RATES SHOWN ON THE PARTNER SITE

GETTING THERE

Plan the drive in

✈️ Nearest airports

We map the closest regional and major airports for each park we cover in depth.

🚗 Rental cars

A car is essential at most parks — book early for summer and holiday weekends.

Compare cars →

🅿️ Parking & shuttles

Where lots fill by 8 AM and which shuttle skips the stress — see "Know before you go" above.

GUIDED TOURS

Book a guide

🌅 Sunrise & summit tours

Beat the crowds with a local guide who knows the timing.

See tours →

🚤 Signature experiences

Boat, wildlife and scenic tours matched to Indiana Dunes National Park.

See tours →

👪 Family-friendly outings

Easy, kid-approved guided trips with real outfitters.

See tours →
NEVER MISS A PERMIT WINDOW

Save your Indiana Dunes National Park trip

Get a heads-up before timed-entry and lottery windows open — plus new guides for the parks you care about.

FREE · NO SPAM · UNSUBSCRIBE IN ONE TAP