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.
Portions of Bailly / Chellberg Trail (with stairs) will be closed through October (10/30/26), to allow completion of boardwalk replacement project.
Partially 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.
Closed. The Woodland Trail is closed indefinitely, and no reopening date is available. However, the paved Oak Savannah Trail remains open.
The middle boardwalk was lost due to a tree strike, making the full loop inaccessible. At this time, there is no timeline for replacement.
Closed. The trail is undergoing tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse. It is expected to reopen in the fall, after mosquito activity decreases.
Which side of Indiana Dunes National Park actually saves you drive time — with live rates, not "top-10 from nowhere".
Wake up inside the gate — first light at the trailhead, no morning commute.
Check availability →Rooms minutes from the entrance with pools, breakfast and parking.
Check rates →PARTNER LINKS · RATES SHOWN ON THE PARTNER SITE
We map the closest regional and major airports for each park we cover in depth.
A car is essential at most parks — book early for summer and holiday weekends.
Compare cars →Where lots fill by 8 AM and which shuttle skips the stress — see "Know before you go" above.
Boat, wildlife and scenic tours matched to Indiana Dunes National Park.
See tours →Get a heads-up before timed-entry and lottery windows open — plus new guides for the parks you care about.
FREE · NO SPAM · UNSUBSCRIBE IN ONE TAP
© 2026 StayNear National Parks · About · Methodology · Privacy · Terms · Affiliate disclosure · Refunds