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Indiana Dunes National LakeshoreSnow covered ice along the bare sand of Lake Michigan
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Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the difference between Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park?

A. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a federal park managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service. Indiana Dunes State Park is a state park managed by Indiana's Department of Natural Resources.

Q. Can I use my metal detector in the park?

A. Metal detectors are not permitted in any area of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.

Q. Where is Mount Baldy?

A. Mount Baldy is located on the eastern end of the national lakeshore on U.S. Highway 12. This is just west of Michigan City. more...

Q. Where can I launch a boat into Lake Michigan?

A. You may launch your boat at Burns Ditch - Portage Marina, Lake Street Beach (Gary/Miller), Washington Park (Michigan City)and several private marinas. 

Q. May I ride my horse in the park?

A. The Ly-co-ki-we Trail is the only place in the park that permits horseback riding. Rental horses are not available, so bring your own.

Q. Can I get married in the park?

A. You may apply for a special use permit for a wedding in the park.

Q. Can I reserve a picnic shelter for a family reunion/company picnic?

A. Yes. One of the shelters at the Bailly/Chellberg area can be reserved. more...

Q. Where can I take my dog?

A. At all times visitors must keep their pets on a handheld leash that is 6 feet or less in length. Pets may also be kept in a crate or cage. Pets are not allowed at certain locations within the park. Please click here for more information. more...

Q. Does the lakeshore have an Artist-In-Residence program?

A. Yes. We have had a program since 1996. more...

Q. Where can I buy the new Interagency Pass that replaces the National Park Pass, Golden Eagle Passport, and Golden Age Passport?

A. The park will begin selling the new passes on January 2, 2007 at the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center. Until that time we will continue to sell both the Golden Age and National Parks Pass. Qualified individuals may also obtain a Golden Access pass. Additional information more....

Q. Are the cabins for rent in the park?

A. No. There are no cabins or hotels in the park. There are a few short-term rentals near by. Additional assistance is available from Lake, Porter & LaPorte counties visitor & tourism organizations.

Q. Where can I sit and enjoy a meal and see the beach/lake?

A. There are no eating establishments between Gary and Michigan City where you can see the lake from the restaurant. However, picnic shelters at Lake View have a view of the lake.

 

Q. Are there seasonal and internships available?
A. Yes see our Jobs & Volunteer pages under Management & Support Your Parks sections.

Q. Can I call to find out if the campground or beaches are full?

A. Yes. As the campground fills and the beach parking areas are reported full both the parks dispatch (communication center) and visitor center are notified. Call 219-926-7561 for the most recent report.

Q. What are the current beach and associated water conditions?

A. As information becomes available the park updates our automated information system. You can call 219-926-7561 and select Beach Conditions from the menu . For the most up to the hour information ask the staff when you arrive at a beach location.

Close-up of flames burning a prairie  

Did You Know?
Without fire, there could be no prairie at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Non-prairie plant species would crowd out native prairie grasses. These rare grasslands are maintained through periodic controlled burns.

Last Updated: June 30, 2008 at 14:14 EST