Spanning over 15,000 acres along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the Midwest’s most unique and scenic destinations. Just across the state line from Southwest Michigan, this natural wonderland features towering sand dunes, wooded trails, prairie grasses, and serene wetlands—all just a short drive from your Harbor Country vacation rental with Third coast vacations.
Named the 61st U.S. National Park in 2019, Indiana Dunes blends laid-back beach days with year-round outdoor adventure. Whether you’re climbing the iconic Mount Baldy, hiking the Dunes Succession Trail, or snowshoeing in winter, there’s something for every explorer.
Did you know? Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse national parks in the U.S., home to over 1,100 native plant species and a wide range of wildlife—making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike. If you're vacationing in New Buffalo, Union Pier, or anywhere in Harbor Country, Indiana Dunes is just a quick 30 min drive away.
Book your stay with Third Coast Vacations and enjoy the best of both worlds—a fabulous vacation rental in Southwest Michigan and easy access to this amazing state park.
Ready to plan your trip? Here are 6 unforgettable things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park:
1. Hike the Dunes Succession Trail at West Beach
Ready to climb one of the most iconic hikes in Indiana Dunes National Park? The Dunes Succession Trail at West Beach is a 0.9-mile loop that takes you up 270 steps (yes, it’s worth it!) and through four unique ecosystems—from shifting sands to shady oak savannas. Along the way, you’ll find interpretive signs, sweeping views of Lake Michigan, and the perfect mix of science, scenery, and steps. It’s kid-friendly, educational, and a total must-do. Bring some water, sunscreen and of course your camera to capture all the natural beauty.
Click here for a map of this and all the park's trails
2. Swim and play at Indiana Dunes Beaches
When the sun’s out, Indiana Dunes beaches are calling! With public access at West Beach, Porter Beach, Lake View, and Kemil Beach, you’ll find plenty of space to swim, sunbathe, and splash along the Lake Michigan shoreline. West Beach offers lifeguards and full amenities in summer, while other spots are more relaxed and natural. Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends, bring your chairs, beach gear, and umbrellas! A friendly reminder: always swim in designated and stay off non trail areas to help with dune preservation efforts.
3. Explore Mount Baldy
Towering 126 feet above the lakeshore, Mount Baldy is the park’s most famous dune—and it’s still on the move! Due to shifting sands and erosion and trail conditions this giant living dune is protected and not all paths are currently open. While climbing to the summit is only permitted on ranger-led hikes (typically offered in summer), visitors can still explore the base trail and enjoy beach access and boardwalk views nearby. It's a must-see stop for nature lovers, geology buffs, and anyone wanting to experience the wild, ever-changing beauty of the Lake Michigan shoreline.
For specifics on trail access and ranger led hikes please check with the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center before planning your visit.
4. Birdwatch at the Heron Rookery and Great Marsh Trail
Birders, grab your binoculars—Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the most biodiverse national parks in the country, and a dream come true for wildlife watchers. With over 350 recorded bird species, you’ll spot everything from vibrant migratory warblers to sandhill cranes and graceful herons.
For a peaceful wooded walk, head to the Heron Rookery Trail, where spring wildflowers and the gentle flow of the Calumet River set the scene. Prefer wetlands and wide-open views? The Great Marsh Trail features a scenic boardwalk through cattail marshes and along the Little Calumet River—perfect for catching glimpses of waterfowl, turtles, and more. Don’t forget your bird guide and a good pair of binoculars, or the zoom lens on your camera.
5. Paddle the Little Calumet River
Looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path way to explore Indiana Dunes National Park? Grab your kayak and hit the Little Calumet River, a scenic and winding waterway that flows through forested wetlands, wildflower meadows, and birdwatcher-approved marshes. While this route isn’t for beginners—some sections require light portaging or river-reading skills—it’s a rewarding paddle with several new public access sites. You’ll glide past historic sites, native plants, and maybe even a heron or two. It’s the perfect way to experience the wild side of the dunes—away from the crowds, up close with nature.
6. Explore the Rare Pinhook Bog & Upland Trail
Hidden deep within Indiana Dunes National Park, Pinhook Bog is one of the park’s most fascinating (and fragile) natural wonders. It’s one of just two quaking bogs in Indiana, formed in a glacial kettle and floating on a thick mat of sphagnum moss. Step onto the boardwalk and you’ll literally feel the ground shift under your feet! This unique ecosystem is home to rare carnivorous plants like sundews, pitcher plants, and wild orchids you won’t find anywhere else. Pair your visit with the nearby Upland Trail, a peaceful 2-mile loop through beech-maple forests and ancient glacial terrain.
Access is only allowed with a ranger-led tour, making it one of the park’s most exclusive—and unforgettable—experiences so call ahead before planning these hikes.
7. Go Geocaching at Indiana Dunes National Park
Ready for a modern-day treasure hunt? Geocaching is a fun, GPS-powered adventure that’s perfect for families, kids, and curious explorers of all ages—and Indiana Dunes National Park is full of hidden caches just waiting to be discovered. Using a smartphone or handheld GPS device, you’ll follow clues and coordinates to find small hidden containers tucked into scenic spots across the park. Some are easy to spot, while others are cleverly camouflaged into the landscape, making each discovery feel like a mini victory.
Many of the park’s geocaches include logbooks to sign and sometimes even small trinkets to trade (just remember: if you take something, leave something!). It’s a great way to explore lesser-known trails, learn about the park’s ecosystems, and keep kids engaged on the go. For added fun, try the official Indiana Dunes geocaching challenge, which guides you to a series of caches with a cool reward at the end.
Pro tip: Download the Geocaching app before you head out, pack a pen, and bring your sense of adventure!
Plan Your Indiana Dunes Adventure Like a Pro!
Now that you're armed with all the tips for a great visit, here’s a final roundup to help you arrive at Indiana Dunes National Park ready for adventure, exploration, and lakeshore memories.
Good times to visit
- Late spring through early fall is ideal for hiking, beach days, and wildflower spotting.
- Winter also brings peaceful trails and snowshoeing adventures along the dunes.
- Hitting the beach? Bring beach gear, snacks, and sunscreen!
- Hiking - Sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, comfy trail shoes or water shoes, a sun hat, and binoculars for birdwatching.
- The park offers wheelchair-accessible boardwalks, visitor centers, and parking at West Beach and Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk.
- Park passes: A park entry fee or annual pass is required. Most trailheads offer nearby parking, picnic areas, and restrooms.
- Start here: Stop by the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center or Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education to grab a map, ask a ranger, or sign up for the Junior Ranger program.
Turn Your Dunes Day Trip Into a Harbor Country Getaway
From dune climbs and river paddles to birdwatching and beach time, Indiana Dunes National Park is the ultimate Midwest adventure spot. And the best part? It’s just a short drive from Harbor Country, Michigan—making it easy to pair your park day with a stay that feels like a true escape.
Third Coast Vacations offers a curated collection of cozy cottages and luxury lake homes, all packed with thoughtful amenities and backed by a local team that knows the area inside and out. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a friends' trip, or just need a change of view, we’ve got the perfect home base waiting for you.
Book your stay with Third Coast and make the most of your Dunes adventure—with sunsets, firepits, and Lake Michigan just steps away.