Popular types of activities in Indiana Dunes National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Mother and young son walking along a path at Indiana Dunes State
Image credit: jlauriat / 123rf

Indiana Dunes is most known for the Indiana Dunes National Park which offers many outdoor activities for visitors such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring the sand dunes. The national park is also home to many unique plants and animals.

In addition to the national park, Indiana Dunes is also home to the Indiana Dunes State Park which offers a variety of activities such as swimming, camping, and fishing. The state park is also home to the famous Three Dunes Point which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Nearby, the city of Gary is home to the steel industry and a variety of cultural attractions. The city is also home to the world's largest collection of public art by African American artists which can be found at the Gary Museum of Art.

1. Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Park is a stunning place to visit. The sand dunes are a beautiful, natural phenomenon and there are a variety of things to see and do. Visitors can explore the dunes, take a walk or bike ride along the trails, or go for a swim in one of the lakes. The park also has a variety of visitor centers where visitors can learn more about the dunes and the park's history.

2. Go for a hike in the Indiana Dunes

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. When visiting the dunes, you'll likely experience some of the following: sand and gravel trails, secluded wooded areas, and vast open spaces. You may spot wildlife such as rabbits, deer, and snakes, or perhaps see a beautiful sunset.

3. Go for a swim in Lake Michigan

The best time to swim in Lake Michigan is in the morning or evening, when the water is cooler. Swimming in Lake Michigan can be dangerous because of strong currents and dense water.

4. Visit the Indiana Dunes State Park

There is a visitor center where you can find information on the park and its features. There are also exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the dunes, as well as on the park's plants and animals. There are also programs and events offered throughout the year. Some of the more popular activities include hiking, biking, and sandboarding.

5. Go for a bike ride on the Dunes-Kankakee Trail

When riding the Dunes-Kankakee Trail, cyclists will experience the beauty of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. They will also encounter some challenging hills, as the trail follows the contours of the dunes.

6. Visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is a visitor center located in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. The visitor center features exhibits on the ecology and geology of the dunes, as well as information on the park's facilities and attractions. The visitor center also offers a bookstore and a restaurant.

7. Go fishing in the Indiana Dunes

You can expect to find a variety of fish in the Indiana Dunes. Freshwater fish, such as bass, can be found in many of the lakes and ponds in the dunes, while saltwater fish, such as trout, can be found in the lakes and rivers that flow into the dunes. Anglers can also expect to find a variety of gamefish, such as northern pike, largemouth bass, and catfish, in the lakes and rivers.

8. Visit the Dunewood Campground

The Dunewood Campground is a campground located in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. The campground has a mix of tent and RV sites, as well as a few cabins. The campground has a store, a playground, and a pool.

9. Go birdwatching in the Indiana Dunes

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a great place to go birdwatching. The dunes are home to a wide variety of birds, including sandhill cranes, pelicans, seagulls, and more. You can also watch for bald eagles, ospreys, and other large birds in the area.