Indiana Dunes National Park
Temporary Closer - Douglas Center — The Paul H Douglas Center is closed until Wednesday 8/19, and all public programs are cancelled until further notice. Several parts of the park are inaccessible due to the weather event from August 11th. It is not advisable to go in the lake after a heavy rain. Use extreme cautio Details ↗
Trail Closure - Dunewood Trace — Temporary closure of the Dunewood Trace trail (2.2 miles), between Kemil Rd, and the Dunewood Campground (near the recycle bins), is now in effect until further notice due to construction of the new Marquette Greenway trail.
Partial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail — Marquette Greenway construction will require closing sections of the Glenwood Dunes Trail (April–December 2026) and Little Calumet River / Mnoké Prairie Trail (May–December 2026). Closure dates may shift as work progresses. Please follow all posted closures and check the park web Details ↗
Hobart Woodland Trail Temporary Closure — Hobart Woodland is closed until further notice while park crews work to clear several downed trees that are creating hazardous conditions for visitors.
Water Safety Alert — On Thursday, 08/13/2026, E. coli levels at Portage Lakefront were above safe swimming standards. For your health, please avoid swimming here until further notice. Due to recent storms and heavy rain, new tests will happen Monday (08/17/2026) with updates to follow. Entering the w Details ↗
Partial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk — Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional damage. This trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. Pier access remains open on either side of closure.
Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.
Introduction
Indiana Dunes National Park is a unique blend of sandy beaches, wetlands, and diverse ecosystems along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Travelers come here to explore its 15 miles of shoreline and the towering dunes that rise up to 200 feet above the lake. The park offers a chance to connect with nature, whether through hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the views of the lake and the Chicago skyline on clear days.
The park has a rich history, from the early Pottawatomie tribe to the fur traders who settled in the area. Visitors can experience the natural beauty while also being aware of the industrial landscapes that surround the park, which can be both jarring and intriguing.
In pictures
Things to know
Good to know
Photo: NPS Photo