Indiana Dunes State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Beaches, sand dunes that tower 200 feet high, marshes, swamps, hardwood forests and white pine groves -- sound good? These are just some of the breathtaking sights that await your visit to Indiana Dunes State Park. The 16.5 miles of exhilarating biking and hiking trails that are in store for you, show off the diverse wildlife habitats of the Dunes. This state park is especially known for its fantastic birding and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan in Chesterton, Indiana Dunes has four distinct seasons of weather. Summer weather is absolutely perfect for a day along the beaches. As the air begins to chill in the fall, you’ll throw on a cozy sweater for strolls along the shoreline or the shop fronts. In the winter, bright, snowy landscapes entice you to still explore the outdoors. And in the spring, warm breezes return the full force of blossoms to the Dunes.
Spring 47-71 F
Summer 80-83 F
Fall 48-74 F
Winter 30-36 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Indiana Dunes State Park
The battle will forever rage on, tent camping vs. RV camping. If wilderness nightlife isn’t for you, you should consider renting an RV with RVshare.com. All RV rentals come with nationwide insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a world-class team to make sure you get the RV perfectly designed for your adventure-seeking self. RVing offers you better protection, a better night’s sleep and better eating when you can store your favorites in an RV. You will be ready to tackle each day’s adventures, whatever they bring.
That being said, the Indiana Dunes State Park Campground is one of the most popular in the area and fills up quickly so be sure to make your reservations as soon as possible. If it is filled up, no worries! Here is a list of the best RV parks in the area:
Donna Jo Campground
This quiet campground, hidden behind homes and cornfields, offers a serene setting for families who want to enjoy nature while still having some comforts of home. Campers will enjoy the small picturesque pond, hiking trails, and the playground. Besides waterspouts and electricity at each campsite, Donna Jo's also offers restroom and laundry facilities. Rates start at $25 per day.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wi-Fi: no
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: fishing, laundry facilities, playground, swimming, rec center, picnic tables, trails
Sand Creek Campground
This peaceful, family-oriented campground is just minutes from the Indiana Dunes State Park and offers everything a camper could want. Full electric and water hookups, clean restrooms, hot showers, a picnic shelter, a fire pit and more for $25 per day.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wi-Fi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: gift shop, playground, swimming, picnic tables, outdoor pool
What to Do at
Indiana Dunes State Park
Inside Indiana Dunes State Park
While thoughts of sandy beaches lure you in for sunbathing and swimming, there is so much to this state park. Of course, the water’s edge is an excellent way to spend the day, you still have miles of trails with stunning views, history and wildlife habitats to explore too. Pack a picnic, stop at the nature center and then hit the trails that lead you right to the beach.
Nature Center/Interpretive Naturalist Services offers daily programs and information throughout summer months, from 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. local time.
Picnicking/Shelters can be found throughout the state park for your convenience and enjoyment.
Trails are marked from easy to moderate to take you through some of the most scenic viewpoints at the Dunes.
Cross-country Skiing
Fishing: Only for Smelt at Indiana Dunes State Park
Swimming Pool is $3 per person, plus the admission fee for park entrance. There is a lifeguard on duty during summer months.
Beach is free admittance after the park entrance fee has been paid. Sunbathe in the Dunes and enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan. There is a lifeguard on duty during the summer months.
Birdwatching is one of the most popular activities in the area and you can follow the Indiana Dunes Birding Blog.
How to Get to
Indiana Dunes State Park
Take State Road 49 North from Interstate 94, or the Indiana Toll Road and it leads into the park.
Entering Indiana Dunes State Park
The park is open 7am-11pm daily. Annual passes are available. Admission is free weekdays between November and mid-April.
Indiana Dunes State Park Indiana Residents : $7.0
Indiana Dunes State Park Non-residents : $12.0
Exploring the U.S. and creating memories with the ones you love becomes effortless with RVshare. Making travel easy and worry-free is what we do. Take the ride, live your best life in style and comfort when you visit Indiana Dunes State Park in an RV rental from us! We would love to see pictures of your adventures so send us photos of your trip to [email protected] and tag us on social media. Your memories could be featured on our blog, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter page!
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Dunes State Park
Stop by during the warm season to take full advantage of the gorgeous beaches and hiking trails. The pleasant breeze off the water will keep you cool and comfortable while you hike and explore.
Indiana Dunes State Park has a humid continental climate that is often affected by the nearby Lake Michigan. Dangerous shelf ice and strong winds are common occurrences during the winter.
Visitors often see white-tailed deer, cottontail rabbits, red foxes, coyotes, beavers, raccoons and muskrats. Larger mammals in the area include bobcats, cougars and elk. Always be respectful of local wildlife, and never try to approach or otherwise disturb them.
Indiana Dunes State Park has 140 spacious campsites with 50 amp service. These sites are open to both tents and RVs. Reserve your spot today by visiting the state park's website or calling ahead.
Indiana Dunes State Park has several accessible campsites as well as paved paths and spacious showers and bathrooms. The more rugged trails may be too difficult to traverse, but the easy trails and beaches are mostly comprised of flat land.