Indiana Dunes National Park
Discover the diverse ecosystems of Indiana Dunes National Park, featuring pristine beaches, rich woodlands, and opportunities for birdwatching along Lake Michigan.
Indiana Dunes National Park is a diverse natural haven along Lake Michigan, offering miles of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and vibrant ecosystems. The park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Location
Located in northwestern Indiana, the park stretches along 15 miles of Lake Michigan’s southern shore.
Quick Facts
Size: 15,000 acres
Year Established: 2019
Unique Features: Over 50 miles of trails, rare dune ecosystems, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Enjoy swimming, hiking, and birdwatching in a unique landscape where dunes meet freshwater beaches. The park's proximity to Chicago makes it a convenient escape for urban dwellers.
Indiana Dunes National Park is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life, with over 1,100 species of flowering plants and ferns. This biodiversity is due to the park’s unique mix of ecosystems, including dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. The combination of different environments allows species from the Arctic, Eastern Woodlands, and Great Plains to coexist in one area, making it one of the most ecologically diverse national parks in the United States. Visitors can see rare plants like prickly pear cacti growing alongside orchids, illustrating the park’s remarkable environmental diversity.