Indiana Dunes National Park — Attraction in Burns Harbor

Fantastic, but maybe a little underwhelming for a National Park status. It's no Zion or Yellowstone, but it is a very nice and well maintained park! Very well maintained trails that get you away from the city and industry with a touch of Indiana wildlife. I went as a day trip from southern Indiana, so I didn't get the chance to do everything, but I had a chance to do some hikes and see Lake Michigan. I did the Cowles Bog Trail, Great Marsh Trail, and the Mount Baldy Beach Trail. Cowles Bog was full of plant life and flowers, but this is one of the most rugged trails in the park, so be warned. Several VERY STEEP and sandy sections of the trail, especially if you are going to the beach, you've been warned of the VERY STEEP sections to get to the beach. Great Marsh Trail wasn't too exciting, but plenty of plants and songbirds! One of the easiest trails in the park! Mount Baldy Trail was a moderate trail. One section of steep sand, but other than that it was pleasant to hike. Very nice view of Lake Michigan from the end of the trail, but if you want to go to the beach, theres another VERY STEEP sandy section that is the only way to the beach and the only way out of the beach. But the actual trail stops at the top of the dune, so you can see the entire coast of Lake Michigan without going down. You don't have to go down the steep section, only if you want to go to the beach, but theres other trails that have much easier access to the beach.

Like I said, its no Zion or Yellowstone, and it's very close to very populated towns and industry sites, but the coast of Lake Michigan is very beautiful and if you go deep enough on the trails, theres no hussle and bussle of the city or industry!

Ps, THE PARK SIGN IS AT THE VISITORS CENTER!!! Theres another smaller sign off of Highway 12, but right next to a super busy road, so just go to the...

Indiana Dunes National Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. My recent visit, which started with camping at the park's well-maintained campground, was nothing short of delightful.

The campground itself was great—clean, spacious, and equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Waking up surrounded by nature set the perfect tone for my day in the park. After a hearty breakfast, I headed to the visitor center, which is an excellent starting point. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, providing helpful information about the park's trails and points of interest.

I embarked on a few of the recommended hikes, each offering its unique perspective of the park’s diverse landscapes. The trails wind through lush forests, scenic dunes, and alongside the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. The variety of ecosystems within the park is impressive, and I appreciated the chance to experience everything from wetlands to sandy beaches.

While I had a full day to explore, I couldn’t help but think that spending three days would be ideal for those who want to take their time and fully immerse themselves in the park’s offerings. This would allow for leisurely hikes, time on the beach, and perhaps even some birdwatching or photography.

Overall, Indiana Dunes National Park is a wonderful place to unwind and connect with nature. The combination of a great campground, informative visitor center, and diverse hiking opportunities makes it a must-visit destination. I left feeling rejuvenated and eager to return for a longer stay. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the...

Together, the Indian Dunes National Lakeshore (operates like a national park) and the state park (Indiana Dunes State Park) offer unique opportunities to hike on trails which meander through lush green forest, desert-like sand dunes, and to walk along the beach and Lake Michigan. Each has a separate visitors center with exhibits and rangers. The national park does not charge admission; the state park does but Indiana residents get in for half price. At either, start with a visit to the visitors center. The National Park shows two pretty good but films detailing the geologic formation of Lake Michigan,, the dunes and the surrounding area, as well as the geologic and sociological history. The state parks center is even better, but with a stronger ranger program and an old but informative film. The lack of programming at the National Lakeshore is disappointing unless you happen to be there on the weekend. Additionally, some of the more interesting hikes can only be undertaken if led by a ranger, and Ranger-led hikes are few and far between. The hike to some historic buildings is low key but informative regarding early settlers in Indiana and this particular area. The Mt. Baldy hike looked fun from the print materials, but it's closed due for to safety concerns (2018). But the nearby hike to the beach (Trail 4) was interesting and rewards you with a gorgeous and secluded stretch of pristine beach. Much of the better hiking available is at the adjoining state park. The commissioned art surrounding the National Park's Visitors Center I different and engaging (done by a graffiti street artist, but...