Indiana Dunes National Park
3 campgrounds in the park · 57 nearby · 1 free and dispersed site within 50 mi
Photo: NPS Photo
8 current alerts
As of Sep 20, 2026 · from nps.gov
- Park closurePartial Trail Closure - Dunewood TracePartially open. Persistent flooding west of the campground currently limits access to the entire trail. Hikers may not always be able to traverse the full length.
- Park closureClosure - Hobart Woodland TrailClosed. The Woodland Trail is closed indefinitely, and no reopening date is available. However, the paved Oak Savannah Trail remains open.
- Park closurePartial Closure - Upland TrailThe middle boardwalk was lost due to a tree strike, making the full loop inaccessible. At this time, there is no timeline for replacement.
- Park closureClosure - Heron Rookery TrailClosed. The trail is undergoing tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse. It is expected to reopen in the fall, after mosquito activity decreases.
- InformationOther Park Conditions and UpdatesFor more information on storm related repairs and other park conditions like beach and hiking safety visit our park status page.
- CautionWater Safety AlertAfter recent storms, E. coli levels are likely to reach above safe swimming standards. Entering the water after heavy rainfall is never recommended. Know before you go and always check our Beach Safety page before heading to park beaches.
- Park closurePartial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes TrailMarquette 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 progresses. Please follow all posted closures and check the park website or NPS App for updates.
- CautionPartial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and RiverwalkClosed 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 remains open on either side of closure.
At a glance
- Entrance
- $25 per vehicle
- In the park
- 3 campgrounds2 reserve on Recreation.gov
- Near the park
- 57 campgroundsWithin 50 mi
- Free and dispersed
- 1 siteWithin 50 mi
- Annual pass
- $45Indiana Dunes only
Where to camp
Camping in the park 3
Camping near the park 57
- Aerial viewCampground
Nissaki Youth Tent Area 3
2.3 mi · Porter, IN
- Aerial viewCampground
Nissaki Youth Tent Area 2
2.3 mi · Porter, IN
Free and dispersed nearby 1
See them on the mapServices nearby: 4 dump stations · 15 rest areas
About Indiana Dunes
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…
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.
Photos: Rafi Wilkinson · Michael Gard · Jeff Manuszak
Things to do
- Arts and Culture
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Auto and ATV
- Scenic Driving
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
Plan your visit
Getting there
Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 20, Indiana State Road 49, and various other local roads. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center…
Weather
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…
Plan your visit
Fees and passes
- Motorcycle, 7 days$20
- Private vehicle$25
- Per person$15
- Indiana Dunes annual pass$45
Hours
The general areas of the park are open year-round. Please check individual areas for specific hours of operation.
Getting there
Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 20, Indiana State Road 49, and various other local roads. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located on Indiana State Road 49, between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94 (1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304). For a driving map to the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or other locations, check out our maps page.
Weather
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.
Camped at Indiana Dunes? You could be the first to say which site you'd pick again.
Reviews, photos and cell signal reports from real stays help the next camper choose between Central Avenue Walk-in Sites, Dunbar Group Site and Dunewood Campground.