17 Of The Most Adventurous Things to Do In Indiana Dunes National Park For Families

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Are you craving adventure? Want to get outdoors and explore one of the nation’s stunning national parks? Don’t know which one to choose next? With so many great things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park, we think that this should be your next explore!

While it is not as large as other national parks and doesn’t necessarily have the same feel, visiting Indiana Dunes National Park with kids is a unique experience you won’t want to miss. The park’s many hiking trails, sand dunes, sandy beaches, and natural beauty make for an exciting adventure for children (and adults) of any age.

The park is full of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, allowing you to get the kids off of their tablets and phones, and outdoors enjoying nature! Spend the night under the stars at one of the park’s campgrounds and spend the day completing the dunes challenge and taking a dip in the cold waters of Lake Michigan.

However you choose to spend your time at Indiana Dunes National Park, we are sure that you will have an adventure filled experience leaving you wanting more of what Lake Michigan has to offer.

About the Park

Indiana Dunes National Park, located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, is a remarkable blend of natural beauty, ecological diversity, and cultural history. The park spans over 15,000 acres and features 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, protecting a combination of beaches, dunes, wetlands, bogs, marshes, and forests.

Indiana Dunes State Park was officially created in 1926, with the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore being created in 1966. The national Lakeshore expanded multiple times, and officially became Indiana Dunes National Park in 2019.

The park is part of the globally significant Indiana Dunes ecosystem, home to over 1,100 native plant species—making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the U.S.

The region also has a rich cultural heritage, with sites like the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm telling the story of early settlers and industrial development. Whether you’re hiking sandy trails, bird watching in marshes, or learning about the area’s history, Indiana Dunes National Park offers a unique window into both the natural world and human history.

Things to Know When Visiting Indiana Dunes National Park

• The state park and national park are separate. There are separate admission fees for each. The America is Beautiful pass will work for the national park, but not the state park.
• Beach Safety: Indiana Dunes has several beaches, but most are not staffed with lifeguards. Be sure to check the safety guidelines before swimming. Remind kids about beach safety, such as avoiding strong currents and not swimming alone. Watch for rip tides signs and stay out of the water when they are posted.
• Stroller Accessibility: Some trails in the park, like the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk and the Calumet Trail, are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, so you can bring young children in strollers while enjoying the scenic beauty.
• Restrooms and Facilities: Restrooms are available throughout the park at key locations like the Visitor Center, West Beach, and Kemil Beach, but some of the more remote areas may not have facilities.
• Picnic Areas: The park has several picnic areas, especially around beaches and trails, where families can take a break and enjoy a packed meal. These are perfect spots to relax with kids. There are some food concession stands in the park (West Beach & the Portage Lakefront), but picnicking as a family is just a lot of fun, isn’t it?
• Bug Spray and Sunscreen: The park’s natural habitats can include areas with mosquitoes and strong sun. Be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and hats to protect yourself and the kids.
• Always stay on marked trails to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems. Always follow the Leave No Trace Principles when visiting a national park to protect the environment and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Indiana Dunes

​The best time to visit Indiana Dunes National Park depends on what you going there to enjoy! We visited in the summer, and found it to be the best time to enjoy swimming and beach activities. The water of Lake Michigan stays cold year round, but the warmer temps of the summer months make it tolerable for swimming (just try climbing the Dune Succession Trail before heading into the lake! Very refreshing!)

It is important to be aware that summer weekends can be particularly crowded, especially with visitors from nearby cities like Chicago. You will definitely want to consider planning your trip on weekdays and arriving early in the day to secure parking and a good spot on the beach.

Spring and Fall are also good times to visit Indiana Dunes with kids, as these seasons offer mild temperatures, vibrant natural scenery, and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer period. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and budding trees, creating an excellent environment for family hikes and nature exploration.

Fall, on the other hand, showcases stunning foliage and comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities without the summer heat. Additionally, visiting during these times allows families to enjoy the park’s attractions with fewer crowds.

If you are not afraid of the cold, winter time can be good for viewing the ice shelves lining Lake Michigan. You can visit any of the popular beach areas, like West Beach, to view the arctic-like walls of ice along the shoreline, but be cautious and never try to walk on them. They are very unstable!

Things to Do in Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

One of the first stops we recommend, the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, located in Porter, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the park. The center is open daily—except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Here you can find all the important information for visiting the park.

You will also find restrooms, drinking fountains, and an after-hours lobby with 24/7 access to brochures and information about local lodging facilities.

The center is filled with interactive exhibits, artist installations, and orientation films that showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems and history. National Park Service rangers and Dunes Ambassadors are available to provide information on trails, activities, and local attractions. Don’t forget to pick up your junior ranger booklet!

Additionally, the center features a bookstore operated by Eastern National, where guests can purchase maps, guides, and souvenirs. Whether you’re planning a hike, seeking educational resources, or looking for local recommendations, the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center offers valuable support for a memorable park experience.​

Things to Do in Indiana Dunes National Park: West Beach

​West Beach is one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and visitor-friendly amenities. Located near Gary & Portage, Indiana, this beach features a vast expanse of sand along Lake Michigan, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

The area also offers access to some of the best hiking trails in the park, including the Dune Succession Trail (aka Diana’s Dare), the Long Lake Trail, and the West Beach Trail. Both the Long Lake Trail and West Beach Trails are great for wildlife observation and birding. You will also get to experience a different aspect of the area’s ecosystem with Jack pine forests and wetlands.

The 0.7-mile Dune Succession Trail was one of our favorites in the park, but there was a little bit of effort required. The initial ascent up the stairs was tough in the hot summer sun, but once we reached the top, the views of West Beach and Lake Michigan were well worth it! The rest of the trail was fairly easy, and took us right out to the beach, a great place to dip your feet in (or go for a swim!).

West Beach offers some additional perks for families. It’s the only beach in the park staffed with lifeguards during the summer, providing an added layer of safety for families. The beach also has plenty of facilities, including a bathhouse with showers and lockers, a seasonal concession stand, and plenty of picnic areas if you choose to bring your own food. Year-round restrooms and potable water are also available at the parking lot.

There are also eight sheltered picnic areas that are wheelchair/stroller accessible from the parking area. These can be reserved for day use ahead of time.

Visit the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm

Visiting the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and natural history. The Bailly Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, was established in 1822 by Joseph Bailly, a French Canadian fur trader. It stands as one of the few remaining examples of early 19th-century trading posts and pioneer homesteads in the Calumet Region.

The site features a blend of log and brick structures, reflecting both French-Canadian and American architectural influences, and includes a family cemetery and the main house with early 20th-century architectural details.

Adjacent to the Bailly Homestead is Chellberg Farm, a preserved Swedish immigrant farmstead that provides insight into the lives of early settlers in the area. The farm includes a family home built in 1885, a barn, corncrib, granary, and a maple sugar camp still in operation today.

Visitors can explore these historic sites via the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm Trail, a moderate 2.5-mile loop connecting the two destinations. The trail meanders through beautiful woods and old fields, offering a serene hiking experience. Along the way, hikers can also visit the nearby Bailly Cemetery, adding a reflective element to their journey.

Visit the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk

Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is a must visit spot in the park for families with an easy access trail along a waterway. You can also find a short walk extending on a pier out over the water towards the Porter Lighthouse.The area also features a 3,500-square-foot public pavilion equipped with restrooms and a seasonal snack bar.

The Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail is a 0.9 mile trail that offers an easy route for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The trail begins at the pavilion, heading south through restored dune habitats, and then crosses the road to continue along a boardwalk beside Burns Waterway, providing picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

This trail is mostly wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all abilities. The area is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with free entrance and parking available.

Things to Do In Indiana Dunes National Park: View the Century of Progress Homes

The Century of Progress Homes in Beverly Shores, Indiana, are a testament to early 20th-century architectural innovation. Originally built for the 1933–34 Chicago World’s Fair, these five homes were designed to showcase modern materials, technologies, and futuristic living concepts.

After the fair, they were relocated to their current location along Lake Front Drive, where they continue to stand as unique examples of experimental design. The homes include the House of Tomorrow, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls and an airplane hangar; the Florida Tropical House, known for its open terraces and vibrant pink exterior; the Armco-Ferro House, constructed entirely of steel; the Wieboldt-Rostone House, built with artificial stone; and the Cypress Log Cabin, designed to evoke a rustic mountain retreat.

These homes are part of the Century of Progress Architectural District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While the House of Tomorrow is currently awaiting restoration, the other four homes have been partially or fully restored and are available for public tours. Tours are typically offered once a year (usually in September), providing visitors with the opportunity to explore these architectural landmarks and learn about their history and significance.

Visit Lake View Beach

Lake View Beach is another one of the best beaches in Indiana Dunes National Park. The area offers a serene lakeside experience with stunning views of Lake Michigan. This beach is equipped with sheltered picnic areas providing a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy a picnic while taking in the picturesque surroundings.

The Century of Progress Houses are within walking distance of Lake View Beach, offering a nice stroll to see one of the most unique areas of the park.

The beach is typically open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. Like most areas of the park, please note that parking is limited, especially during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. There are no lifeguards at Lake View Beach, so be sure to keep an extra eye on your kiddos and follow any warnings (e.g. rip tide warnings).

Pets are allowed at Lake View Beach, as long as they are on a 6 ft. leash.

Go For a Hike

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park, in part because of the large range of landscapes within a relatively compact area. With over 50 miles of trails winding through sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, oak savannas, and woodlands, hikers of all ages and skill levels can find a path that fits their pace.

For families, the park offers many kid-friendly trails that combine manageable terrain with great views and educational opportunities. The Heron Rookery Trail is a 3.3 mile trail along a relatively flat path, making it a great option for families. The Great Marsh Trail is a 1.2 mile trail with an observation deck that is another great option for families.

Diana’s Dune (Dune Succession Trail) is an option doable for most families, although the stairs up can be tough on a hot day. The Calumet Dunes Trail is a 0.5 mile trail along the Calumet Dunes Ridge. The Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail is another excellent trail that is also mostly stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Many trails also connect to historical landmarks, like the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm, adding a cultural layer to the hiking experience. With its unique blend of natural habitats and accessible pathways, Indiana Dunes National Park is a hiker’s paradise that invites exploration in every season.

Visit Dunbar Beach

A lesser known and quieter beach in Indiana Dunes, Dunbar Beach offers a tranquil and scenic retreat along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. The beach is accessible via a short walk from the Dunbar Beach parking lot, located at the intersection of Dunbar Avenue and Lake Front Drive. There is limited parking at Dunbar, so plan on arriving early to get a spot.

As one of the smaller, lesser known beaches, Dunbar Beach also has less amenities than the other beaches. There are seasonal restrooms and potable water, but there are no lifeguards or concessions. We would recommend packing a lunch and enjoying a picnic meal together as a family, or planning on stopping in one of the nearby towns for lunch.

Dunbar Beach (along with neighboring Kemil Beach) is a great option for families looking to get away from the crowds and have a more peaceful experience in Indiana Dunes National Park.

Go Stargazing

What do most national parks have in common? Their dark, unpolluted night skies! This makes stargazing one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park! Grab a blanket, find a comfortable spot along the beach, and simply sit, look up, and marvel at the night sky!

The chances are good that you will catch an occasional shooting star, and if you’re lucky possibly the Northern Lights. Kemil Beach is one of the best areas within Indiana Dunes to stargaze, with some of the darkest skies in the park. The parking area is also open 24 hours, allowing you to stay and experience stargazing as late as you wish.

While Indiana Dunes National Park has some decently dark night skies, they are not as dark as some of the other national parks or lakeshores, such as the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Some areas of the park are better than others, so do some planning to make sure you get the best experience!

You will also want to bring a red light flashlight to avoid ruining your experience or the experience of fellow stargazers. Bring extra layers, as it can get cold quickly at night.

Participate in the Junior Ranger Program

Participating in the Junior Ranger program at Indiana Dunes National Park (or any national park) is a fantastic way for kids to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history while having fun. The hands-on program is designed for children ages 5-13 and encourages them to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, complete educational activities, and engage with park rangers.

Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger activity booklet at the Visitor Center or online, where they’ll find tasks like identifying wildlife, learning about local ecosystems, or solving nature-based puzzles. Once they complete the activities and attend a Junior Ranger program, they can take the pledge to become an official Junior Ranger and receive a badge.

Things to Do in Indiana Dunes National Park: Central Avenue Beach

Another one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park is to visit Central Avenue Beach, located in the Town of Pines. The beach is accessible via a paved parking lot, with seasonal restrooms and potable water facilities available. Like many Indiana Dunes National Park beaches, it does not have a lifeguard on duty.

Central Avenue Beach is an ideal beach for kids because of the shallow water and lack of rocks. The beach, surrounded by towering sand dunes is more secluded than the other beaches and is a great option for watching bank swallows in the spring time or going bird watching.

When visiting the beach, do not climb on the dune slopes directly behind the beach. This helps to protect fragile habitats and prevents injury to the climber. Pets are permitted on a leash (6′ or shorter).

Not far from Central Avenue Beach are the Central Avenue walk-in campsites. There are 5 sites, about 5,000 feet from the beach. These sites are walk-ins, so there is a little bit of a hike with some elevation gain at times. Parking is available at the Central Avenue beach parking lot. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Go Kayaking Or Canoeing

Indiana Dunes National Park offers a variety of water sports opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. The Lake Michigan Water Trail provides experienced paddlers with an unparalleled view of the dunes, allowing for exploration of the lake’s shoreline and the park’s unique ecosystems.

Calmer waterways like the Eats Branch of the Little Calumet River and Burns Waterway are also great options, especially for families. These options are calmer than the more challenging Lake Michigan Water Trail.

Kayaking and canoeing are permitted, but be aware that conditions can change quickly and calm waters can turn into more treacherous conditions. Be prepared, know your limits, check the weather, and always use a personal flotation device. Staying closer to the shoreline is recommended for beginners.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience and are willing to travel a little outside the park, the inland lakes in the surrounding communities offer serene paddling conditions, perfect for beginners or those looking to relax on the water. Additionally, the Kankakee River National Water Trail presents a more challenging route, with 85 miles of paddling through historic wetlands and parks, offering both a physical workout and scenic beauty.

For visitors interested in guided experiences, companies like Shurr Adventures offer kayaking tours along East Calumet Creek, providing insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history. These guided tours offer a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty, making them an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their visit.

Go Bicycling

Bicycling in Indiana Dunes National Park is a fantastic way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty. With a trail system that spans 37 miles over the length of the park, the park offers routes suitable for all skill levels, from casual riders to more experienced cyclists.

The Oak Savannah Trail, a 17.8 round-trip flat trail, is one of the park’s most popular bike trails, winding through lush woodlands and prairies, providing riders with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and experience the park’s stunning variety of ecosystems.

Other options include the gravel, 19 mile round-trip Calumet Bike Trail, the 3.6 mile round trip Dunes Kankakee Bike Trail, the 22.4 mile flat Prairie Duneland Bike Trail, the 4.6 mile round-trip Marquette Bike Trail, or the 7 mile round trip Porter Brickyard Bike Trail, which has some hills.

While riding, you can enjoy beautiful vistas of both the dunes and the lake, making each pedal a scenic adventure. With its combination of paved paths, dirt trails, and lakefront routes, Indiana Dunes provides a unique and enjoyable biking experience for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect way to explore the park at your own pace.

Kemil Beach

Kemil Beach is another one of Indiana Dunes National Park’s quieter beaches, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, away from the more crowded areas of the park. The beach features a wide stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.

There are no lifeguards at Kemil Beach, so be sure to use caution when swimming. Pets are permitted on the beach before Memorial Day and after Labor Day. The beach shares a parking lot with the Dune Ridge Trail, providing easy access to both the beach and the trail.

Restroom facilities are available seasonally, and a drinking fountain is provided for convenience. Please note that parking is limited, and the lot can fill up quickly during peak times. Visitors are advised to avoid parking in nearby neighborhoods to prevent potential parking violations.

For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, the Dune Ridge Trail offers a scenic hiking experience through the park’s diverse ecosystems, providing stunning views of the Great Marsh and the surrounding dunes.

Have a Picnic In the Park

Having a picnic is one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park as a family. There is no shortage of scenic picnic areas, many of which feature covered picnic shelters equipped with tables, grills, and nearby restrooms. Cooking fires are permitted in the provided grills or approved carry-in grills.

For those planning a visit, it’s advisable to check the availability of picnic shelters, as some are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov, ensuring a spot for your group.

Go Camping

Camping in Indiana Dunes National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the park’s diverse landscapes. The Dunewood Campground provides a serene setting with 66 campsites, including both drive-in and walk-in sites. While the campground does not offer electric or water hookups at individual sites, it does provide potable water at several locations and a central restroom and shower facility. There is also convenience stores and a gas station within 1/4 of a mile from the campground.

The Dunbar Group Site is another option for larger groups. The site can accommodate up to 30 people. The site overlooks the Great Marsh and Lake Michigan, and is only about 500 ft. from the beach. There is parking and restrooms available at the Dunbar Beach parking area.

For those preferring more amenities, the nearby Indiana Dunes State Park Campground features 140 sites with full electric hookups and heated restrooms and showers (this is in the state park, not the national park). Located less than a mile from the beach, this campground offers easy access to the lake and is ideal for families looking to combine camping with beach activities.

What To Do in Indiana Dunes National Park: Mount Baldy Beach

Mount Baldy Beach is one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park with kids. A unique landscape, Mount Baldy is the largest living dune in the national park, with its peak reaching 126 feet above Lake Michigan’s water level. The dune is continuously moving inland several feet per year, reshaping the landscape and providing a dynamic environment for visitors to observe.

The beach is accessible via a short 0.75-mile trail from the parking lot, which involves a steep descent down loose sand to reach the shoreline. The beach provides year-round restrooms and potable water, along with picnic facilities for visitors to enjoy. There are no lifeguards at Mount Baldy Beach.

While independent hiking is prohibited on the dunes, National Park rangers offer guided hikes up the dune several times a year, allowing participants to learn about the dune’s history and ecological significance. For those interested in a more in-depth exploration, a virtual ranger tour is available, providing insights into the area’s geological features and natural history.

Making Your Trip to Indiana Dunes Sustainable

• Follow the Leave No Trace Principles
• No littering!
• Don’t take anything from the park (shells, plants, rocks, etc.)
• Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging fragile eco-systems
• Be sure to follow all guidelines for cooking fires (permitted in picnic area grills and approved carry-in grills only)
• Be respectful of wildlife-never feed them!
• Choose sustainable transportation and lodging options when able.
• Avoid single use plastic items and replace them with multi-use items.
• Properly dispose of all waste and recyclables.

Where to Stay When Visiting Indiana Dunes

When planning a visit to Indiana Dunes National Park, you’ll find a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets.

The first option we always recommend is camping, especially when visiting a national park. It helps give you the whole experience! Consider camping in the national park at the Dunewood Campground or at the nearby state park at the Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.

For those seeking traditional lodging, nearby towns such as Chesterton, Porter, and Michigan City offer numerous hotel options. Some great options for families include:

• Best Western Indian Oak: Located less than 2 miles from Indiana Dunes, Best Western Indian Oak is a great option for families with a heated indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, lake view with a balcony, and breakfast included.
• Country Inn & Suites By Radisson (Michigan City): Located just outside of Indiana Dunes National Park, Country Inn & Suites is another excellent option for families. The hotel features an indoor pool, breakfast included, suites with kitchenettes, and nearby restaurants.

Another great option, and one that we frequently use when traveling, is renting an Airbnb or VRBO vacation rental. This will give you the entire place to yourself (in most cases) and give your family the flexibility that you need!

Where to Eat When Visiting Indiana Dunes

​Dining options are limited within the national park itself, with only a couple seasonal concession stands open during the summer months (West Beach & Portage Lakefront). There are also plenty of sheltered picnic areas located throughout the park,so bringing your own food is a great option!

If you would rather visit a sit down restaurant, you can find a variety of dining options in nearby towns such as Chesterton, Porter, and Michigan City. For a casual yet delicious meal, consider dining at Octave Grill in Chesterton, known for its gourmet burgers like the “Figgy Piggy” and a selection of craft beers.

If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine, Meditrina Market Café in Valparaiso offers a cozy atmosphere with dishes like feta-stuffed dates and roasted eggplant crostini. Tomato Bar Pizza is a great choice for families with kids that are picky eaters, with variety of pizza and calzone choices, as well as a kids menu.

The Port Drive-In in Chesterton, a nostalgic spot serving classic American fare like burgers and root beer floats. The Port Drive-In offers not only kid friendly menu options, but also a unique experience with the option to dine in your car.

Frequently Asked Questions