Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

The ethos of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore can be captured in two words, ‘Sand’ and ‘Solitude.’ This national lakeshore is administered by the National Park Service and is comprised of a total area of about 15,000 acres of land located in three counties (Lake County, Porter County, LaPorte County) in Indiana. The park can be accessed using the I-94, I-80/90, IN 12, US 20, the Indiana Toll Road, and several other roads in the area. 

If you choose to use the South Shore Railroad from Chicago or South Bend, you will get to experience many attractive stops within the park area. Once you get to the park, there are several other attractions that you will get to enjoy including the Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center that provides residential programs and day-use for visitors. You could also choose to visit the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education or historic sites including an 1822 homestead and 1900s family farm. 

Additionally, you can get to experience sand dunes that rise 180 feet above Lake Michigan's southern shore. Other natural features include bogs, beaches, prairie remnants, marshes, and swamps. Apart from the attractions mentioned above, you can also get to enjoy lots of recreational activities within the park including hiking, camping, swimming, bicycling, horseback riding, boating, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and public programs. You are permitted to bring your dog along for the ride.

If you choose to bring your pooch, you should be aware that there are several rules that you must follow if you want to be on good terms with the parks authorities. Some of the basic rules you must abide by include ensuring that your dog is either in a secure enclosure or leashed at all times. The leash must be no more than six feet in length. 

You must also ensure that you get rid of your dog’s solid waste right away and that you dispose of it in the right manner. You should also be aware of areas of the National Lakeshore that you can and that you cannot visit. Basically, you are allowed to visit Kemil Beach, Lake View Beach, and Dunbar Beach. You are not allowed to visit areas to the west of Indiana Dunes State Park including Portage Lakefront Beach, Porter Beach, and West Beach.