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.
Current Alerts
- CautionWater Safety Alert
On Thursday, 08/13/2026, E. coli levels at Portage Lakefront were above safe swimming standards. For your health, please avoid swimming here until further notice. Due to recent storms and heavy rain, new tests will happen Monday (08/17/2026) with updates to follow. 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.
More info → - CautionPartial 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 remains open on either side of closure.
- Park ClosureTemporary Closure - Douglas Center
The Paul H Douglas Center is closed until Wednesday 8/19, and all public programs are cancelled until further notice. Several parts of the park are inaccessible due to the weather event from August 11th. It is not advisable to go in the lake after a heavy rain. Use extreme caution when visiting as most locations have no power and are out of service.
More info → - Park ClosureTrail 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 ClosurePartial 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 progresses. Please follow all posted closures and check the park website or NPS App for updates.
More info → - Park ClosureHobart 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.
Source: National Park Service.
Upcoming Events
- 1966 Hiking Challenge: Hike Every Trail in the ParkSat Aug 29 2026Chellberg Farm Parking Lot
- Outdoor Adventure FestivalFri Sep 04 2026Region-wide but starts at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 N State Road 49 Porter, Indiana
- 1966 Hiking Challenge: Hike Every Trail in the Park: July 17 RescheduleSat Sep 05 20261596 North 300E, Chesterton, IN 46304
- Ranger Camp 3-Day ExpeditionFri Sep 11 2026You MUST register before arrival: Base Camp is located at the Chellberg Overflow Parking Lot near the Nelson House. - Coordinates: 41°37'29.74"N, 87°05'12.04"W - Participants remain parked here for the event duration. Potable water, restrooms, port-a-jons, picnic shelters, and grills are available in the Bailly/Chellberg area. Please see below for further details.