Indiana Dunes State Park

About

Indiana Dunes State Park sits along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, where massive sand dunes rise above beaches and forests create a surprisingly diverse ecosystem. The park covers over 2,100 acres and offers everything from challenging dune climbs to gentle woodland walks, with Lake Michigan's shoreline tying it all together.

The dunes themselves are the main draw. Some tower nearly 200 feet above the lake, shaped by thousands of years of wind and water. Trail 2 takes hikers along the famous Three Dune Challenge, summiting the park's tallest peaks. But you don't need to climb to enjoy this place. The beach stretches wide and inviting, and the wooded trails wind through oak forests and wetlands that support a remarkable variety of birds and wildlife.

Birdwatching is exceptional here. The park sits along a major migratory flyway, and an accessible bird observation tower gives visitors elevated views over the surrounding habitat. Spring and fall migrations bring warblers, hawks, and shorebirds in impressive numbers.

Swimming in Lake Michigan is a highlight during warmer months. The water is fresh, the beach is sandy, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer season. Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, and a nature center offers exhibits about the dune ecosystem and the forces that created it.

The park is adjacent to (but separate from) Indiana Dunes National Park, which means you can easily explore both in a single trip. Together they protect over 15,000 acres of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests.

Indiana Dunes State Park is open year-round. Summer brings swimmers and sunbathers; fall offers stunning foliage against the lake backdrop. Winter can be dramatic, with ice formations along the shore and cross-country skiing on the trails. Spring migration season is a favorite for birders.

The park charges a vehicle entrance fee, and a campground is available for overnight stays. It's located about an hour from Chicago, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.

Accessibility

Indiana Dunes State Park has made significant investments in accessibility. The park offers motorized wheelchairs that visitors can take on trails and around facilities, removing a major barrier to exploring the dunes and forests. Indiana's DNR has also deployed all-terrain trackchairs across the state park system, and Indiana Dunes was one of the first parks to offer them.

Beach access is a particular focus. The park has installed ADA beach mats that provide a rigid, non-slip surface connecting parking lots to the water's edge. This project, supported in part by the Make a Wish Foundation and Friends of Indiana Dunes, allows wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges to reach the shoreline independently.

An accessible bird observation tower is available, offering elevated views of the surrounding habitat without requiring a hike. Accessible restroom facilities are located near the main beach and picnic areas.

Accessible parking spaces are available at the main beach lot and other key locations throughout the park. Paved paths connect major facilities near the beach and picnic areas.

It's worth noting that many of the park's dune trails involve steep, sandy terrain that can be challenging even with mobility equipment. The beach areas and lower trails are the most accessible portions of the park. Staff can advise on which routes work best with the available equipment.

To reserve a motorized wheelchair or trackchair, contact the park office in advance, as availability may be limited. For the most current information on accessible features and equipment, call Indiana Dunes State Park directly at (219) 926-1952.

More accessible places in Indiana

• Eiteljorg Museum (Indianapolis)
• Indiana Medical History Museum (Indianapolis)
• Minnetrista Museum & Gardens (Muncie)
• Newfields (Indianapolis)
• Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory (Fort Wayne)
• Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial (Lincoln City)