National Park · IN

Things to do in Indiana Dunes

The National Park Service lists 11 things to do at Indiana Dunes National Park. 0 have no extra fee, 9 need no reservation, and 10 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

All (11) Self-Guided Tours - Auto (3)Hiking (2)Self-Guided Tours - Walking (2)Birdwatching (1)Horseback Riding (1)Paddling (1)Freshwater Swimming (1)

1966 Hiking Challenge

The 1966 Hiking Challenge is comprised of 19 hikes that cover 66 miles of trail in the park, celebrating the park’s founding in 1966.

1-5 Hours Spring, Summer, Fall Fee applies Pets allowed

Hiking

Birding at Indiana Dunes National Park

Located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, the national park is an important feeding and resting area for migrating birds. Lake Michigan influences the migration patterns of bird species.

Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed

Birdwatching

Full Day Expeditions

Whether you have an hour, a half day, or a full day, the beaches, dunes, and trails of Indiana Dunes offer relaxation, inspiration, and fun adventures. This list highlights some of the must-see sights in the park.

6-24 Hours Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Half Day Adventures

Whether you have an hour, a half day, or a full day, the beaches, dunes, and trails of Indiana Dunes offer relaxation, inspiration, and fun adventures. This list highlights some of the must-see sights in the park.

2-8 Hours Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Hiking Indiana Dunes

Indiana Dunes is home to one of the most biologically diverse habitats in the nation. Hiking is a great way to explore these fascinating landscape.

Fee applies Pets allowed

Hiking

Horseback Riding at Indiana Dunes

Enjoy an equestrian ride through ancient dune formations on the Glenwood Dunes Trails system. These trails are the only horseback trails and you must bring your own horse. The trail is host to almost 15 miles of interconnected loops.

Spring, Summer, Fall Reservation required Fee applies

Horseback Riding

One Hour Excursions

Whether you have an hour, a half day, or a full day, the beaches, dunes, and trails of the Indiana Dunes offer relaxation, inspiration, and fun adventures.

1-4 Hours Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Swimming at Indiana Dunes West Beach

Fifteen miles of sandy beach along the southern shore of Lake Michigan offer a wide variety of recreational activities.

1-3 Hours Summer Fee applies Pets allowed

Freshwater Swimming

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Indiana Dunes. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

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