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Camping In Indiana Dunes National Park

The Best Camping Hiking And Beaches At Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes State Park Campground Review | Camping in Indiana

Categories Midwestern United States, camping, Destinations, Get Outside, hiking, United States, US National Parks

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Where can you find 15 miles of secluded shoreline, 50 miles of hiking trails, and 15,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness all within 50 miles of one of Americas largest cities?

Welcome to Indiana Dunes National Park, one of the newest additions to the National Park Service in the United States.

Indiana Dunes is a playground for water sport enthusiasts, but its also a perfect spot for solitary hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing on the beach with a good book. Its a fabulous weekend destination for those with limited time to adventure, and the fact that its just an hour from Chicago only sweetens the pot.

I had the opportunity to explore Indiana Dunes National Park with my nieces on a cross-country road trip over the summer. We spent several nights at Dunewood Campground, and several days hiking the dunes, goofing off, and relaxing on the shores of Lake Michigan.

There are definitely worse ways to spend a summer weekend!

Final Thoughts On Visiting Indiana Dunes National Park

All things considered, we enjoyed our stay at Indiana Dunes National Park. It wasnt a park that knocked our socks off, but the lake and dunes were awesome and the trails were fun.

We were disappointed with the amount of trash on the beaches and the cleanliness of the bathhouses, but more impressed with the swimming, hiking, and sunsets. It would make a fun day trip from Chicago or other nearby cities.

Lake View Beach Dunbar Beach And Kemil Beach Beverly Shores In

Lake View Beach, Dunbar Beach, and Kemil Beach are essentially the same beach with different access points. They are all within walking distance to each other and located in a residential neighborhood in Beverly Shores, Indiana.

These are the closest national park beaches to Dunewood Campground and are all great spots to watch the sunset. Dunbar Beach and Lake View Beach are on either side of the 1933 Worlds Fair Century of Progress Homes, a collection of five houses turned historic landmarks that were created to highlight futuristic changes to residential living.

Four of the homes are privately leased, but you can view and photograph them from the outside, just dont trespass on the properties.

Parking is very limited and may require a bit of a walk . There are restrooms and potable water available near the parking areas. Lake View has several covered picnic pavilions with grills, but again, these fill up quickly, especially on the weekends.

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Mount Baldy Indomitable And Gorgeous

At the parks eastern end, right on the lake near Michigan City, I visited a 126-foot-tall dune called Mount Baldy. When you park your car at Baldys base, you are confronted with the sight of mature oak trees whose upper two-thirds are sticking out of the dune, as if being swallowed. A living dune, Baldy can move as much as 20 feet a year via wind erosion.

Carefully heeding the prescribed walking route in 2013, a child was trapped on Baldy for four hours I climbed over the dune and then trudged for three minutes down its gorgeous, windswept front to the wholly unpeopled beach on Lake Michigan. As if the stark beauty of it all werent enough to make me think Id reached the end of the world, I could just make out in the fog, way off to the right, the eerie Nipsco power plant, which, as one volunteer would later tell me, only looks nuclear. I felt like Id been transported to the final scene of Planet of Apes.

What surprised me here, though, was that the presence of Nipscos eerie, vase-shaped cooling tower didnt break Baldys magisterial spell, but, rather, reinforced it, or threw it into high relief. Baldy seemed all the more indomitable and gorgeous in the presence of mans squat and belchy ugliness.

At first, this cultural dissonance rattled me. But then I remembered my Mount Baldy experience and vowed, Glass half full! Glass half full!

Henry Alfords most recent book is And Then We Danced.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Dunes National Park

Dunewood Campground, IN

Is Indiana Dunes National Park accessible for disabled visitors?

Yes, Indiana Dunes National Park is accessible for disabled visitors. Park visitor centers, the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, and the Dunewood Campground are all accessible, along with some picnic and beach areas.

Are pets allowed at Indiana Dunes National Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Indiana Dunes National Park. They are not allowed on the Pinhook Bog Trail, but are allowed on the Pinhook Upland Trail. They may not be on the equestrian portion of the Glenwood Dunes Trail system. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet.

What are the top things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park?

Top things to do at Indiana Dunes National Park include hiking the dunes, enjoying views of the lake, and visiting the Century of Progress Homes. The park has lots more hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities, too!

Are there designated camping spots in Indiana Dunes National Park?

Yes, there are designated camping spots in Indiana Dunes National Park. The Dunewood Campground has 66 campsites, including designated RV camping spots. The campground is closed for the winter.

What is the best time of year to visit Indiana Dunes National Park?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Indiana Dunes National Park. Visitors won’t have the crowds that come with the summer season. Wildflowers in spring and fall colors later in the year also make those special times to visit.

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Visiting The Beaches At Indiana Dunes National Park

There are eight public beaches within the boundary of Indiana Dunes National Park. All have parking available, but many of the parking lots will fill up during the summer. Our advice if youre going to spend the day at the beach, get there early. Here are some things you should know about the beaches at Indiana Dunes National Park.

  • Indiana Dunes beaches are open from 6 am to 11 pm.
  • Glass containers and fires are prohibited on all Indiana Dunes beaches.
  • Beach restrooms are open year-round.
  • Dogs are permitted on all beaches except the lifeguarded area on West Beach but must be kept on a leash at all times.
  • West Beach is the only one of the Indiana Dunes beaches that has a lifeguard, and only between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend.

Camping In Indiana Dunes National Park

For a camping option that’s a little off the beaten path, consider Dunewood Campground, which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park. This campground is right off Highway 12 in Beverly Shores and about 1.5 miles from the dunes.

This campground is a little more secluded than the State Park, and it’s perfect for people who are looking for more of an old-school camping experience. You won’t find any electrical hookups at Dunewood Campground, but there are restrooms and a shower facility. Each campsite is nestled in the trees so you can really get in tune with nature!

Take a five-minute drive or a 30-minute walk through the quaint town of Beverly Shores to get to the beach. Keep in mind that during peak season, parking can be a challenge. Dunewood Campground is open April through October, and you can set up camp at one of the 66 sites. Four sites are wheelchair accessible. All sites are reservable online. Visit the National Park Service site for more information on reservations, rules, and requirements.

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Clifty Falls State Park

Clifty Falls State Park is located in southeastern Indiana, on the shores of the Ohio River.

One of the parks main attractions is the incredible waterfalls. They seem to change moods with the weather and seasonal shifts. The falls can range from roaring plunges to a delicate bridal-veil mist, and in the winter they become gleaming frozen titans!

Spring and winter visits to Clifty Falls reveal the waterfalls at their best. Clifty Canyon offers excellent opportunities for year-round hiking and scenery. The waterfalls and streams are enough to draw a crowd on their own, Clifty Canyon.

The creeks stony bed is littered with all sorts of fossil remnants reminding visitors of a time from the past. The long-vanished marine ecosystem that was once teeming with life included ancestral squids, brachiopods, and ancient corals.

Visitors can look but cant collect, as fossil collecting within the park is prohibited. However, nearby locations are readily accessible for those who want to bring a souvenir home.

The Lanier State Historic House, located in Historic Madison, is a mansion. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Ohio River and catch a glimpse of the stunning architecture.

The park hosts special community events, including the July Regatta hydroplane boat race and the Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art.

Indiana Dunes National Park Camping Must Know

Where to Camp in the Indiana Dunes Dunes 101: Camping | Indiana Dunes

The following sections contain all the basic information you need to ensure you have a great time camping in Indiana Dunes National Park. First a few basics:

  • The Maximum group size for individual campsites is eight people. There are no group campgrounds in Indiana Dunes National Park.
  • Ensure youre tent/RV is on pavement or the tent pad at all times.
  • Pets must be on a leash at all times.
  • You are not permitted to camp in Indiana Dunes National Park for more than 14 days in a 30-day period.

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Mccormicks Creek State Park

McCormicks Creek State Park is the lime green park located northwest of Bloomington.

McCormicks Creek State Park offers a spectacular limestone canyon to explore, scenic waterfalls, and a flowing creek. The hiking trails feature diverse forest trees, native wildflowers, and spicebush.

Theres a trail through the Wolf Cave Nature Preserve, as well as an accessible trail at the nature center.

History lovers enjoy climbing the fire tower, exploring the shelter house, and crossing the stone arch bridge.

The historic Statehouse Quarry is located near White River. The lobby of Canyon Inn is open to all park visitors, and they can also enjoy bird watching from the dining rooms porch.

Cultural events take place at the park amphitheater, and there are also several special events hosted throughout the year.

The summer brings visitors to the pool for a dip in the cool refreshing water.

The park offers several activities such as hiking, a recreation center, horseback riding trails, picnic shelters, and tennis courts.

Stick around and camp out at one of the campground sites. There are 32 primitive sites, as well as 189 developed sites with electricity.

Are There Any Rules I Should Know

  • Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
  • Sites are limited to a maximum of eight people.
  • All tents and equipment must be set up on the camping pad.
  • RVs, campers and vehicles must remain on the pavement.
  • Some sites are limited on RV length.
  • Pets must be attended, caged or on a leash. The leash must be shorter than six feet long.
  • For other rules, visit www.nps.gov.

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Dunes : Where To Camp In The Indiana Dunes

There’s no better way to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Indiana Dunes than camping. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent for the weekend, settle down for a while in your RV, or stop for a few days while on your van life road trip, the Indiana Dunes has great camping options.

The Complete Guide To Camping In Indiana Dunes National Park

Dunewood Campground, IN

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Indiana Dunes National Park is one of Americas newest national parks, having been designated as a national park in 2019. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan in northeast Indiana, the park covers over 15,000 acres with Indiana Dunes State Park fully enclosed within the national parks boundaries. We think the best way to experience everything the Indiana Dunes have to offer is by spending a few nights sleeping under the stars in your tent or RV. Youll get experience this incredible environment first hand!

Indiana Dunes National Park and the surrounding areas have plenty of options to suit all types of campers. From the more rustic Dunewood Campground within the national park, to the campground located within Indiana Dunes State Park, and nearby full service campgrounds, youll be spoiled for options.

Keep reading to get all the details to plan your perfect camping trip in Indiana Dunes National Park.

  • Free camping near the Indiana Dunes
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    Portage Lakefront And Riverwalk Beach Portage In

    This small beach is next to the Port of Indiana and a steel mill, giving it a more industrial feel than some of the other beaches. Theres a nice paved riverwalk trail that hugs Burns Waterway, and the beach has restrooms and a snack bar. There is an ongoing issue with erosion here, and Lake Michigan is in a constant battle with the dunes on the shore. In some places, the beach is very narrow, and in other places, there is no beach at all. This is a nice spot to check out the Chicago skyline on a clear day.

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    Campground Open: Please Use Caution Due to COVID-19 Virus

    The national park’s Dunewood Campground is OPEN this season, but please take any necessary precautions due to the virus, COVID-19 . Restrooms and showers are also open. For more information, please visit the park’s status page.

    • Address: Golf Wood Road & Dunewood Parkway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 .
    • GPS Coordinates: 41.671786, -86.983985 .
    • Phone: 219-395-1882 .

    Campground Open Dates

    Dunewood Campground Map

    Facilities

    • Sites 1-54 are conventional drive-in sites for RVs and/or tents. RV length is limited in some sites.
    • Sites 55-67 are for tent camping only.
    • Sites 15, 30, 41, and 55 are wheelchair accessible.
    • Restrooms and showers are located in the center of each loop.
    • No electric or water hookups at individual sites. There is potable water located at several locations in each loop.
    • The campground does have a RV dump station.

    Fees

    • $25.00 per night camping fee .
    • All camp sites are reservable in advance at www.recreation.gov starting six months in before the check-in date. Sites are reservable beginning on November 15 for the following camping season.
    • 50% discount for the following America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes: Senior Annual, Senior Lifetime, and Access Passes.
    • No discount for the following America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes: Annual , Military, Volunteer, and 4th Grade.

    Attractions / Services

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    Resources For Indianas Protected Areas Map

    The shapefiles with Indianas state boundary lines, major rivers, and cities were downloaded from Natural Earth Data.

    The Parks and Public Lands shapefiles for Indiana were downloaded from USGS.

    This map will be updated with new data! To receive updates on this and more nature maps join my email list!!!!!!!

    Lodging Near Indiana Dunes National Park

    National Parks RV Camping//Dunewood Campground// Indiana Dunes National Park

    Best Western Indian Oak – Consider a stay at Best Western Indian Oak and take advantage of laundry facilities, a fireplace in the lobby, and a bar. For some rest and relaxation, visit the sauna or the steam room. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in public areas, with speed of 25+ Mbps, and guests can find other amenities such as a 24-hour gym and a 24-hour business center

    Comfort Inn & Suites Porter– Consider a stay at Comfort Inn & Suites Porter near Indiana Dunes and take advantage of laundry facilities, a gym, and a 24-hour business center. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. Stay connected with free in-room Wi-Fi.

    Waterbird Lakeside Inn – Waterbird Lakeside Inn provides laundry facilities and more. Guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi. All guestrooms at Waterbird Lakeside Inn have comforts such as air conditioning, as well as amenities like free Wi-Fi. Guest reviews say good things about the clean, spacious rooms at the property.

    Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Portage, IN – At Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Portage, IN, you can look forward to a free breakfast buffet, a terrace, and a library. In addition to laundry facilities and a fireplace in the lobby, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.

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    Indiana Dunes National Park’s Dunewood Campground

    Please note: New National Park entrance fee begins on March 31, 2022. Learn more here.

    • Open April 1st through October 31st
    • 54 conventional drive-in sites
    • No electric or water hook-up
    • Just over a mile south of Lake Michigan
    • Each site is large, private and beautifully wooded
    • Sites have a large fire pit and picnic table
    • Modern accessible restrooms and showers
    • Half of the sites are reservable the rest are first-come, first-serve

    Things To Do While Camping At Indiana Dunes National Park

    Theres no end to the fun activities you can pack into your Indiana Dunes National Park camping adventure!

    For lovers of the water, this park and the surrounding area are known for their many miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beaches. Walk the lakeshore, take a swim in the beautiful, warm waters, catch some sun on the beach, or go sailing, kayaking, or fishingand thats just on the lake! In the parks interior waterways and rivers, canoeing is also a popular activity .

    If you prefer to have your fun with your feet on the ground, theres plenty to do in the interior of the Indiana Dunes National Park as well! This park is fantastic for hiking and biking, with many beautiful boardwalks and paths to choose from. Within the park is the popular Glenwoood Dunes trail system, which features a series of connected loops that average from less than a mile to nearly 15 milesincluding a stretch specifically reserved for horseback riding! Along the way, youll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching as well.

    In the winter, cross country skiing and other seasonal activities are also available at Indiana Dunes National Park!

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