Itineraries

If you only have 1-2 hours:

 

If you have half a day:

  • Join one of the many ranger-led programs designed to help you find your own connection to this incredibly diverse national park. Search our Calendar of Events to see current opportunities.

  • Lounge on 15 miles of national park beaches and enjoy beautiful views of the expansive Lake Michigan. While you're relaxing, the kids can earn a Junior Ranger Beachcombers patch by completing a fun activity sheet.

  • Take a trip back through time and tour the historic Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm to learn about early Duneland history. Hike the entire Bailly / Chellberg Trail System for views of the Little Calumet River and Mnoké Prairie.

  • Journey deep into the ancient dunes of the Tolleston Dunes Trail System.

 

If you have 1-2 days:

  • Spend the night at Dunewood Campground to experience the natural night life of the dunes. During your stay, join a ranger around the amphitheater's campfire for a Saturday evening program.

  • Hike the Paul H. Douglas Trail, which winds through Miller Woods, a rare black oak savanna tucked behind the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, and explore the many interdunal ponds along the trail. Stop in the Douglas Center to check out the animal room and new exhibits.

  • Take a hike along the rugged 4.7 mile Cowles Bog Trail to explore wetlands, savanna and high dunes. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a beach that is only accessible by hiking or boat.

  • Looking to avoid crowds? Enjoy the national park in spring and fall to avoid the summer crowds. Check out the spring wildflowers on the Heron Rookery Trail or the fall colors on the Glenwood Dunes Trail. There are usually fewer visitors mid-week during any time of the year.

Last updated: August 27, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1100 North Mineral Springs Road
Porter, IN 46304

Phone:

219 395-1882
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center phone number.

Contact Us