The Indiana Dunes lie along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, about an hour from downtown Chicago. The area is confusing at first because two different parks share the same shoreline: Indiana Dunes National Park, run by the National Park Service, and Indiana Dunes State Park, run by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. They sit side by side, with the state park surrounded by the national park. This guide explains how they differ and which to choose for your day.
Key takeaways
- The national park is a large, spread-out preserve along about 15 miles of shoreline; the state park is a single compact area of about 2,000 acres.
- The state park charges a gate fee per vehicle; in the national park, West Beach is the fee area.
- The South Shore Line train runs from Chicago to stations near both parks.
Indiana Dunes National Park
The national park is not one block of land but a series of beaches, dunes, wetlands, forests and historic sites spread along the shore on both sides of the state park. Popular areas include West Beach, which has a swimming beach and the Dune Succession Trail, and several beaches further east. Inland, there are trails through wetlands, prairie and woods. The national park is known for its unusual mix of plant life, which grows here because of the dunes and the lake.
According to the National Park Service, West Beach is the only area of the national park that charges an entrance fee. Other beaches and trails are free, though parking can be limited.
Indiana Dunes State Park
The state park is a compact area of more than 2,000 acres with a large swimming beach, a nature center, a pavilion and a network of trails. It is home to the 3 Dune Challenge, a trail that climbs the three tallest dunes in the park. The climbs are short but steep, in loose sand, and give views over the lake and the forest.
The state park charges a gate fee per vehicle, with a lower rate for Indiana plates than for out-of-state plates. Check the Indiana DNR website for the current fee.
The two parks compared
| National Park | State Park | |
|---|---|---|
| Managed by | National Park Service | Indiana DNR |
| Layout | Spread out along about 15 miles | One compact area |
| Entrance fee | West Beach only | Per-vehicle gate fee |
| Signature hike | Dune Succession Trail at West Beach | 3 Dune Challenge |
| Best for | Variety, quieter beaches, exploring | Simple beach day with facilities |
Tip: If you want a simple beach day with restrooms, food and lifeguards, the state park is easier. If you want quieter beaches and more variety, pick one or two areas of the national park.
Getting there by train
The South Shore Line runs from downtown Chicago to northwest Indiana. According to the National Park Service, visitors can get off at Dune Park or Beverly Shores stations depending on where they are going. From the stations, expect a walk to the beaches. Check the train schedule before you go, since weekend service is less frequent.
Who this trip suits
- Beachgoers looking for sand and dunes instead of a city beach.
- Hikers who want a workout; the dune climbs are harder than they look.
- Nature lovers interested in wetlands, birds and plants.
Before you go
- Check the fee rules for the area you plan to visit.
- Summer weekend parking fills early; arrive in the morning.
- Bring water, sun protection and shoes that work in sand.
- Check beach conditions; Lake Michigan currents can be dangerous.
Planning a full day
A good full day starts at one park in the morning and ends at the other. For example, climb the 3 Dune Challenge in the state park while it is cool, then spend the afternoon on a quieter national park beach. The national park visitor center, near the entrance to the state park, has maps and trail information. Summer thunderstorms can arrive quickly over the lake, so keep an eye on the sky and leave the beach if you hear thunder.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is driving to the national park expecting a single entrance. It is spread out, so pick your destination before you leave. The second is underestimating the dune climbs, especially in summer heat.
Frequently asked questions
Are the national park and the state park the same?
No. They are separate parks run by different agencies, with different rules and fees, but they sit next to each other.
Can I visit from Chicago by train?
Yes. The South Shore Line stops near both parks. Plan on a walk from the station.
What is the 3 Dune Challenge?
A trail in the state park that climbs its three tallest dunes. It is short but steep and sandy.
For a day trip with canyons instead of dunes, read Starved Rock State Park: Canyons, Waterfalls and When to Go. Closer to home, see the Chicago Beaches: How to Choose One and What to Know Before You Swim.