Indiana Dunes National Park
Welcome to Indiana Dunes National Park, a treasure of natural beauty along Lake Michigan. This park of stunning dunes, wetlands, prairies, rivers, and forests, offers visitors an array of activities. Whether you are planning a trip or just dreaming of adventure, our guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Indiana Dunes National Park.
Things to Do
Beach Activities
With over 15 miles of shoreline, the park’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Indiana Dunes West Beach is a favorite for its facilities and accessibility. For midwesterners that can’t travel 1200 miles to Siesta Key, Indiana Dunes National Park is a fantastic second choice.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy angling in the park’s many streams along with the lake itself. Lake Michigan is home to a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, yellow perch, northern pike, and many more. Remember to check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before casting a line!
Bird Watching
Indiana Dunes is a bird watcher’s paradise and home over 350 bird species throughout the park. From the flight of migrating raptors to the intricate melodies of warblers, the diversity of bird species is a spectacular backdrop for all types of bird watchers. The changing seasons bring an array of birds, making every visit a new discovery in the heart of nature.
Explore Nearby Towns
The charming towns surrounding the park, such as Chesterton and Valparaiso, offer quaint shops, local restaurants, and cozy cafes. Additionally, there are plenty of local events depending on what interests you have. You could take the historical tour in Chesteron or attend the Popcorn Festival in Valpraiso (celebrating Orville Redenbacher’s connection to the town). A quick google search will give you more than enough ideas to keep you occupied outside the park.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the Park: Indiana Dunes National Park is home to a rich biodiversity. As mentioned above there are over 350 species of birds. The park’s varied habitats also support deer, raccoons, squirrels, and the rare eastern massasauga rattlesnake. The area is well known for having a diverse plant life. To be precise, there are over 1100 species of vascular plants throughout the park.
Indiana Dunes National Park Fun Facts
- Indiana Dunes National Park was designated as America’s 61st national park in 2019.
- The park boasts approximately 15,000 acres
- With over 1100 species, it has one of the most diverse plant ecosystems of any US national park.
- The park has over 50 miles of trails.
- “Mount Baldy” is a living dune that moves about four feet every year, providing a fascinating example of the power of wind and erosion.
Trails
As mentioned above the park boasts over 50 miles of trails. They range from easy walks to challenging hikes. The West Beach Trails offers stunning lake views and dune landscapes. However, for a more secluded experience, the Cowles Bog Trail is the way to go. Cowles Bog Trail explores wetlands, forests, and not surprisingly, dunes.
Indiana Dunes Places to Stay
While Indiana Dunes National Park does not have campgrounds within its boundaries, the nearby Indiana Dunes State Park does offer camping facilities. Furthermore, with both modern and primitive sites, the campground is a convenient option for overnight stays. Other campgrounds worth checking out would be Dunewood Campground and Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Don’t want to sleep under the stars? There are plenty of other options available. Whether you prefer a bed and breakfast, hotel, or want the place to yourself with an Airbnb, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of the best places to stay near Indiana Dunes National Park.
Photography Hot Spots
West Beach
Capture the sweeping dunes against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. West Beach is a phenomenal photography hot spot for several reasons. There are diverse landscapes, the southern shore makes for great sunset / sunrise views, every season has unique charm, rich wildlife biodiversity, and access to trails with great vantage points.
Porter Brickyard Trail
Porter Brickyard Trail is ideal for photographing wetland wildlife and lush landscapes. There are diverse ecosystems that include wetlands, forests, and prairies. With the many different backdrops there are a wide variety of subjects in a relatively compact area. From aquatic plants to dense green foliage, a photographer is sure to find a good shot at Porter Brickyard Trail.
Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area, which is especially striking at sunset. As one of the largest living dunes in the National Park, Mount Baldy provides a stunning backdrop. Not to mention the dynamic dune landscape and stunning views of Lake Michigan!
Indiana Dunes National Park History
History of the Park: Indiana Dune’s history is as rich as it’s natural beauty. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the dunes saw industrialization threats in the early 20th century. Conservation efforts began around the 1910s, which lead to the establishment of the Indiana Dunes State Park in 1925, and eventually the national park in 2019.
Tips for Visiting
Plan Your Visit: Before visiting, check the official website for Indiana Dunes National Park to get latest information on trails, closures, and safety guidelines. Whether exploring the dunes, relaxing on the beach, or discovering the area’s history, Indiana Dunes offers a unique adventure for everyone. Remember to respect the natural and historical resources, stay on designated trails, and above all, enjoy the beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park!
Want to learn about other national parks in america? Check out some of our other posts down below. Furthermore, don’t forget to follow @keeperoftheparks on social media for all things related to state and national parks!
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