Best Camping in and near Indiana Dunes State Park

93% (35 reviews)

Take advantage of year-round family recreation on the Lake Michigan shore.

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Community favorites near Indiana Dunes State Park

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Stay at a public campground in Indiana Dunes State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Indiana Dunes State Park

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Blooming Bus Farms

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Niles, MI

Blooming Bus farms is a working urban flower, vegetable and fiber farm practicing sustainable, organic, natural farming practices. Spread out over 15 acres, upon completion, you’ll find 4 yurt sites and 3 byo tent sites. Working hard contributing to our compost are our alpaca and free range chickens. While this is a working farm, we try to not run any equipment before 10:00am! Inquire about reserving the entire property to host your group getaway!

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The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

8 sites · RVs1 acre · Chicago, IL

Twenty years of growing this farm... Not what grows here but the farm itself! Stone and brick pulled from the ground till we found the beautiful earth beneath and built an incredible community around it. Or rather, it grew itself from the energy that surrounds it. It's a special spot where you may happen upon a fire in the sugar shack while we boil city collected sap into maple syrup or have an open jam night with world class jazz musicians. Enjoy the morning serenade of our rooster! Really, just come and be here. Though we think we're pretty cool, a few things to note that you may not think are so cool: There is a train that runs directly behind the farm. Light sleepers, may want to bring ear plugs. We try to accommodate parking your car on site but it's weather and situation conditional. Assume the possibility that you may need to park on the street. Bring your tent to The Vaudeville! (RVs, campers, trailers, vans please see the ** at the bottom). Our urban farm is smack in the middle of Chicago only a 10 minute bike or train ride from Downtown, Lake Michigan, The Mag Mile and all Chicago has to offer! Bike the Lake Shore Trail, walk the 606, kayak the Chicago River, catch a blues show or Hawks game or just relax with the goats and chickens in the 9,000 square foot farm that we absolutely love to share with fellow campers! ** We have stopped hosting RVs, campers/vans, pull behinds and larger vehicles because we are finding it difficult to get them in the entrance gate but if you feel amazingly capable with your backing in skills in your rig and you're super patient, laid back and extra cool, let us know and we may be able to make it work!! :)

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The Haven with 4 Camp sites

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Niles, MI

The Haven camp site and wedding venue began in 2022, with a slow start; but as we jumped into the 2023 season, we made quite a bit of changes and ended the year with great success by: meeting new people and having many people come back for their second and third times! We strive to share the property that God has graciously blessed us with. The Haven is 3 acres of beautiful land on the St Joseph River. Our property setting is a hidden gem that opens to the most beautiful natural setting. The land offers a gorgeous view of the river and numerous shady sites nestled underneath a giant array of oak beach and walnut trees. Here at The Haven, the property has ample space for parking, room for various size camping tents and small pop-up tents small RV's, A dock for fishing, and access for kayaking. Fire pits and grill area for cooking and a complimentary bucket with some goodies to start you off. This setting is perfect for camping in a private nestled nook on the river. We have more than one area on the property to choose from. You can choose any site you would like: From the River’s edge, Beach Area (site 1) Small RV and tent site, or on the River under The Canopy of trees (site2) small RV and tent site. You also can stay at the Cozy corner (Site 3) by the woods and river in our new addition: Trailer that sleeps up to 4 people with all the amenities and can accommodate campers with tents as well, Or The Cove by the woods, small camper, and tent (site 4). Come Stargaze or hangout at the “spot” (dock) comfortably and lounge with views on the water or sit by the campfire at “The Pit.” Every site is first come first serve. Book earlier to get your desired spot! Bring your toys and play in the great outdoors! We have corn hole toss, horseshoe toss, but if you have toys you can use them here, throw the football or play some volleyball or Tether ball whichever and soon we will have Frisbee Golf! Or rent some of our Kayaks and really enjoy the river! Don’t miss out book now! -If smoking or drugs are discovered on the property the whole group will be asked to leave with NO REFUND. NO EXCEPTIONS. Alcohol will be at the owner’s discretion upon arrival. Please dump all trash in waste baskets provided. Please clean up after pets and please be responsible and respectful of others. The Haven

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Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Gary, IN

This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away. Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet 25 dollars for 2nd pet (75) 2 max pets

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Mulln-Heim Vineyards

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Baroda, MI

This is a 3rd generation "Family Farm" of a different sort I suppose. Seems there's a bit of everything here, and arguably not enough of anything. At least for conventional farming. So we've learned to do things a bit differently.Our main crop is wine and juice grapes since our topography, climate, and soil type makes it a premier location for that. But with 30+ acres of forested hillsides, low ground, and natural areas we've evolved into a mixed farm and forest enterprise. Our goal is to utilize the productivity of all our property while still retaining the basic character and usefulness of the wild areas. Letting each thing be what it wants to be and does best on it's own. Flow, not force.So our year starts early with tapping maple trees and making maple syrup. Plus there's grape trimming about this time as well. When the forest floor starts to green up a bit later, we start digging Ramps, or Wild Leeks in the woods. Most of these will go to the more trendy Chicago restaurants, but we also have some local sales. Next comes inoculating winter-cut logs with Shiitake spawn for next years mushroom production. This year we also conducted a few hands-on workshop seminars on mushroom growing as well. Then it's on to our raised bed herb & veggie gardens. (Fresh herbs are just so much fun to cook with!) We grow enough for our own yearly use, as well as some for direct sales. Summer keeps us busy tending all the different crops here and trying to keep up. But there's that steady progression of fresh veggies to eat. Yum !!! Fall brings our annual Grape U-Pick in September and October. And we try to time related crops like mums, pumpkins, and gourds for this same time frame. Makes the place a bit more interesting. Late fall is when we bring in firewood to heat the house and workshop. Stacks of wood everywhere. Hopefully before the 1st snow. In winter it's time to fire up the woodworking shop and be a bit creative. Build furniture, equipment maintenance, who knows what next years projects will include. I like to keep everybody guessing.So, that's what goes on here. You're welcome to check it out, lend a hand, relax back at camp, walk the vineyards and/or forest, or just breathe and relax. That's up to you. But I would recommend visiting a few of the fine local wineries. Seems there's a festival going on at one or another of them just about every weekend. Good music, good wine, good times. And there's the Lake Michigan beaches a few miles down the road.Yeah, this is a pretty casual place here, love meeting new people, very open to civil discussions of all sorts.However, rude, ill mannered people will probably enjoy staying elsewhere. Just say'n.

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(22)

Michigan City Camping/4min to Beach

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Michiana Shores, IN

Discover the ultimate outdoor retreat at our secluded campsite in Michigan City, Indiana, nestled on 9 acres of lush woodland just minutes from the beach. Our spacious site accommodates multiple tents and features a hammock, bonfire pit (Fire wood provided), and picnic table for your comfort. Enjoy the tranquility of nature with the convenience of local breweries, wineries, and the Indiana Dunes National Park nearby. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our campsite offers the perfect backdrop for your next camping getaway.

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Sleek Acres

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Grovertown, IN

Sleek Acres is a total of 13 acres, which includes our homestead, our chicken yard and barn, a fishing pond, and over 6 secluded acres to the back of the property where guests can explore (including walking trails). There are hungry catfish and bass in the pond who are always happy to be fed (we provide the fish food). Fishing is allowed, but catch and release only (under 12"), please! Mr. and Mrs. Quackers live on the pond and will happily greet you as you walk to the beach. Relax in the morning as you enjoy your coffee and watch the fish and turtles swim in the pond. We have a large fire ring adjoining Sites 3, 4, and 5, and the Cozy Camper. Bring your tripod and cook over the open fire or use one of the provided charcoal grills to make dinner. (Separate fire rings are provided at Sites 1 and 2.) A small amount of firewood is provided, and additional firewood is available for purchase. We provide a bathhouse which includes a toilet and shower. A handwash/dishwashing station is located right outside the bathhouse. Our chickens are happy to take care of any food leftovers you don't want! You can walk right up to the fence and they will greet you. You may also see deer, fox, groundhogs, and many beautiful birds in the camping area. Located central to many destinations, we are 5 minutes from All-Sports Koontz Lake; 10 minutes from Plymouth, plenty of shopping and home of the Blueberry Festival; 10 minutes from Walkerton, home of the Falloween Fest; 25 minutes from Valparaiso; and 50 minutes from Notre Dame. If you are looking for a quiet, relaxing place to camp, yet close to many attractions, Sleek Acres is the place to be! :) (Please note: Check in and check out times will be based on central time.)

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Willowthorne

6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Lynwood, IL

Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit. Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience. Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience. Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby. PLEASE NOTE: Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round. Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area. In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine. Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY. Leave fire ring in designated spot. Never leave fire unattended. No fires on windy days. Extinguish fire before leaving campsite. Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety For Your Convenience: Firewood: Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.) Honey: We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer. Blueberries: Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay. Misc. We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies. Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome. We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!

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Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

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Atomic camp ground

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Berrien Springs, MI

Learn more about this land: Quaint 5 acres of rolling hills surrounded by wooded lot. Potable water and a clean Porta John. Close to lake Michigan and Warren Dunes. Close to Notre Dame. Great for relaxing or just a place to stay for the night.

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GROOTs OFF GRID

7 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Baroda, MI

GROOTs OFF GRID lets you have freedom to do as you wish have fun doing just that! – Unlike the State Parks many surrounding campsites. You can have privacy, you are not stacked next to your neighbors! You have your space! This Offers the responsible camper here to keep your fire burning and maned all evening long if you chose. Play your music! Drink quality Michigan craft booze and beer out of glass bottles! Laugh out loud at night after 8 pm without bothering anyone! Smoke Quality Michigan Cannabis! Come and go as you please, Park your cars by your campsite! Enjoy your pets! Just do all of these wonderful things responsibly! So Groot won’t kick you OFF the GRID!GROOTs OFF GRID, you will find a wonderful private nature experience. With areas and private nooks that created many unique coves. Creating their own presence of solitude and privacy each of the individual campsite areas unique amongst themselves! This is a slice of wonderment that you can take in your memories and enjoy in all the off seasons the fun you had here! Come back and try a different spot next year! GROOTs OFF GRID has got the A1 Prime location! With all our local activities at the right season. 10 mins from: BEACH- WINERIES- CRAFT BREWERIES. FINE FOOD, LOCAL MARKETS, ANTIQUE SHOPS, ART STUDIOS and GALLERIES. THE WARREN DUNES, & WARREN WOODS NATURE TRAILS. PLENTY OF WOODS, CANOE / KYAK, BIKE, HIKE, FISHING and CANNABIS SHOPS. GREAT STAR LIGHT NIGHTS, AND ALL NIGHT CASINOS ALL NEAR BY! The Wine hay wagon tour bus stops for pick up @ the entrance each Saturday @ request!GROOTs OFF GRID Featured Amenities for its campers! A new rented PORTA JOHN with A WEEKLY CLEANING SERVICE! WELL WATER ON TAP! BRAND NEW! CLEAN PICNIC TABLES @ each site! LARGE CAMP FIRE RINGS @ each site! FIREWOOD TO PURCHASE for your convenience. OR you are welcome to PICK UP FREE FALLEN DEAD STICKS IN THE WOODS! & then of course… best part of all…TO STAY AT A TRULY UNIQUE AREA, EQUIVOCAL TO ALL OTHERS!@ GROOTs OFF GRID you will be staying at an active nursery in the off season that specializes in over 300 different antique fruit trees and Wholesale large ornamental trees and shrubs that envelops the entire 40 acre property! We started planting Windbreaks, then a huge array of Nursery Stock since 1956! GROOTs OFF GRID is an oasis of cooling shade and green abundant tree and plant life! That is totally surrounded by nothing but a long creek, wine grapes, beans and corn the average rotating crops that hold the oppressive heat of the days sun. However! The moment that your crew pulls onto the GRID property you will experience a 20 degree drop in temperature! With the overhead lush green canopy of established trees and the stress of your journey getting here will drop 45 more degrees!GROOTs OFF GRID is surrounded by an open plane farming land, of wine grapes and rotating corn and bean crops all around the property. Which in turn caused the attention and inhabitation of all the surrounding indigenous wonderful species of animals and birds, like Turkeys, hawks, owls, sparrows, storks, blue heron, geese and ducks. Beavers, woodchucks and lots of aquatic life! Too many to list!GROOTs OFF GRID sports a diversity of plants that has always been of interest to our customers. However as time moves forward the landscape gradually has changed. When an old world Dutch Nurseryman, plants a living block of wonderful arborvitae, junipers or honey suckles and everything in between, we sell what we can and leave the rest of the plants to get larger and more valuable in time. Which in turn creates a beautiful arboretum with a countless collection of varieties of mature plant life never to be recreated in on one property in a life time! GROOTs OFF GRID is a bird watchers delight! No end here of Hawks, Vultures & other birds of prey and flocks of sparrows, Blue Jays, finches, Oreos, more than can be mentioned! & home to Great horned Owls, Hooting in the evenings. Wake up to the soothing coo of the mourning doves that all the creatures enjoy this oasis of shade and natural cover and protection to thrive & make their nests and raise offspring. GROOTs OFF GRID sports the Natural Organic progression of trees and shrub growth that has created a cornucopia of attraction of life to a vast array of wild life that outdoes any nature center you may have attended before, because of GROOTs OFF GRID location and long periods of isolation due to a seasonal business and a lot of land. GROOTs OFF GRID Organic nursery has 3 ponds and natural flowing water ways that were laid out and dug by a Dutchman who understood that rain water will flow downhill to end up into The Fowler Creek at the back of the property were you can see large Salmon, Carps, Turtles, Blue Gills Bull Frogs & much more aquatic life! GROOTs OFF GRID Activities available here on the property! 3 Hiking & Biking paths A. B. and C. Trails. All grass mowed and all trails marked with directional signs leading to different directions on the property. BIKE PATHS leading to safe back roads leading to breweries and wineries, local lakes and parks. & Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Large trees to climb! Bird watching, Turtle racing, reptiles and interesting Butterflies and insects! There is lots of open space to play corn hole, badminton, frisbee. Toss the football around or play a baseball game! Better yet, you can set yourself up in the sun and get a great tan! Or slip into a nice slow swinging hammock with a good book under a cool shade tree and make that your plan! Either way its Ok if you like your stay, book another day!GROOTs OFF GRID is a new Campground. That is slowly growing larger. Operations were put in place in 1998 to start to make this large area to become available and open for the public to come and enjoy. Only on a limited level of occupation at each season is allowed here, to insure the animal presence is not overly disturbed. By too many visitors at a time. This is to preserve a true experience for the campers to understand actual living in the wild of Michigan’s original forests with its natural animal inhabitants! A unique experience many kids in time, will never see again.WHAT ENTERTAINMENT IS AVAILABLE AROUND GROOTS OF GRID?· LAKE MICHIGAN! Swim & Sun! Several beaches with local access!· Weko Beach about 8 miles away Bridgeman Mi.· Warren Dunes state Bridgeman Mi.· Cherry Beach Harbert Mi.· Lakeside Beach. Lakeside Mi.· Union Pier Beach Union Pier Mi.· New Buffalo Beach. New Buffalo Mi.· Or Silver Beach In St. Joseph Mi.· Lions Beach St. Joseph Mi.· · HIKEING AND BIKEING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!· Lake Michigan Wine Trail· WARREN WOODS 3 OAKS MI.· WARRN DUNES STATE PARK.· New Buffalo Board Walk· St. Joseph Lake Blvd. Beach Run.· Three Oaks (Home of Prancer) Apple cider century Bike ride.· · FISHING! & EXPLOREING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!· 3 PONDS ON THE PROPERTY WITH NATIVE FISH & Aquatic life!· LOCAL FISHING & BOATING & SWIMMING LAKES!!!!!!!!!!!!· SINGER LAKE 5MIN. HESS LAKE 10MIN. BOYLE LAKE 15MIN. DAYTON LAKE. 20 MIN - ST. JOE RIVER 20 MIN. TO LAKE GALIEN RIVER. 20 MIN. TO LAKE.· BEAR CAVE HIKE FISH & HARIOT TUBMAN UNDER GROUND RAILROAD SAFE HIDEING PLACE. CAVE TOUR! BUCHAN, MI.· HOUSE OF DAVID.· BIT OF SWISS – DECADENT PASTRIES!

Glamp Chi Urban Campsite

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Chicago, IL

Welcome to Glamp Chi - An Urban Glamping Experience in Chicago! Dear Adventurers and Urban Explorers, Welcome to our little slice of paradise in the heart of the Windy City! We are thrilled to have you join us for a one-of-a-kind urban glamping getaway that promises to enchant your senses and rejuvenate your spirit. Fall is no better time to glamp and Chicago has an abundance of activities and itineries to explore with autumn colors, the smell of leaves, and orange sunsets. Step into our boho chic oasis, where luxury meets vibrant urban pocket in the most unexpected of places. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Chicago's vibrant and culturally rich streets, you'll find a tranquil retreat awaiting your arrival. Leave the ordinary behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great urban outdoors, without ever leaving the city limits. Nestled beneath a soft urban twilight glow and lush natural landscape, your Glamp Ground awaits. Adorned with eclectic decor and thoughtful touches, our urban sanctuary provides for elevated comfort and style in a private refuge. As you spend the day exploring one of many curated travel experiences – you’ll find our glamp site right in the center of it all. And as your urban explorations of the rich city of Chicago come to an end – you’ll look forward to retreating back to your urban oasis and unwind within your very own private urban glamp site. Whether you chose to eat at a local restaurant, take-out or pick up and prep a meal at your glamp site - you can be flexible as you return from your Windy City travels having a meal near your tent or within the optional kitchenette provided inside the oversized safari tent. As the sun sets over the skyline and you settle in to share in your experience of the day; catching a baseball game, attending a concert, watching city fireworks, or tasting an amazing meal from one of several local dining options – you’ll be able to gather within a private, gated setting around the fire pit to reflect on the stories and share in the laughter with a nightcap under the city shadows. And, when the time comes to rest for your next day’s adventure, you’ll be able to sink into plush bedding, falling asleep to the tranquil hum of the urban heartbeat under a safari sized, weather protected heavy-duty bell tent canopy. During your stay, take time to explore all that Chicago has to offer, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you choose to wander through bustling neighborhoods, sample local cuisine, or simply soak in the sights and sounds of the city, your urban adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap. Thank you for choosing to embark on this unforgettable urban journey which we have enjoyed for years. May your stay be filled with moments of magic, serenity, and boundless wonder. Happy Glamping! Glamp Chi

The best camping near Indiana Dunes State Park guide

Overview

About

Just outside of Gary, on the banks of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dune State Park offers year-round recreation, with over 2,000 acres of dunes and forest and nine miles of trails for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. It’s popular with families, particularly in summer when locals come in droves to hang out on the park’s sandy beach. For those who want to spend the night, the two-loop Indiana Dunes Campground features 140 electric tent and RV sites, plus showers, two playgrounds, a camp store, and a dump station.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a campsite at Indiana Dunes through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website or by calling the Indiana state park's reservation hotline.
Campsite availability opens at noon, six months in advance.
Sites that haven't been pre-booked are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Arrive early to guarantee your chances of snagging something, but note that check-in/check-out isn't until 2pm (5pm on Sundays and public holidays).
If you can’t find a site at Indiana Dunes State Park, look into camping at the adjacent Indiana Dunes National Park or reserve a private Hipcamp in the area

When to go

Indiana Dunes State Park is open year-round, though the nature center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays from November through March. Winters are cold and snowy, and the park is a popular destination for cross-country skiing from December through February, and often into March. Summers are hot and humid, with highs in the low 80s from June through August, while September is a little cooler and less crowded, particularly on weekdays.

Know before you go

You can pick up groceries and supplies in the suburb of Chesterton, right by the park. For better selection, head to the city of Gary, about a 25-minute drive away.
Dogs are allowed at the campground, provided they’re on leashes no longer than six feet in length. Dogs are not allowed at the beach.
Campsites 7, 22, 28, 53, 119, and 127 are wheelchair accessible. If you book an accessible site and don’t need ADA accommodations, you may be reassigned to a different site.
For winter campers, Indiana Dunes keeps one heated restroom open.