Good to know
- Tickets
- The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. The fee applies at West Beach in summer; most other areas are free. Indiana Dunes State Park, inside the national park, has its own fee.
- Time needed
- Half a day for a beach and a short hike; a full day to explore several areas.
- Best time
- Summer for swimming; spring and fall for birding, hiking and fewer crowds.
- Getting there
- The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is in Porter. Nearest major airport is Chicago O'Hare, about 1 hour 15 minutes' drive; Chicago Midway is about 1 hour.
Where to stay nearby
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Indiana Dunes National Park questions
What is the best beach at Indiana Dunes?
West Beach has lifeguards in summer and the Dune Succession Trail. Central Avenue and Porter Beach are quieter options.
Can you do Indiana Dunes as a day trip from Chicago?
Yes. It is about an hour by car, or you can ride the South Shore Line train to stations near the beaches.
Where should I stay to visit Indiana Dunes?
Chesterton, Porter and Michigan City have hotels. Dunewood Campground is the park's own campground.
