12 Facts About Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park is a natural wonderland located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, USA. The park covers over 15,000 acres and is home to sand dunes, forests, wetlands, and beaches. Here are 12 facts about Indiana Dunes National Park:

1. The park was established in 2019. Indiana Dunes National Park was established on February 15, 2019, making it one of the newest national parks in the United States. Prior to becoming a national park, the area was a national lakeshore.
2. It is home to 15 miles of beaches. Indiana Dunes National Park boasts 15 miles of sandy beaches along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and explore the park’s beach ecosystems.
3. It has over 50 miles of hiking trails. Indiana Dunes National Park offers over 50 miles of hiking trails that traverse the park’s dunes, forests, and wetlands. The park’s trails range from easy, family-friendly hikes to more challenging backcountry routes.
4. The park is home to the world’s largest freshwater sand dunes. Indiana Dunes National Park is home to the world’s largest freshwater sand dunes, which can reach heights of over 200 feet. These dunes were formed over 10,000 years ago as glaciers receded and the lake’s water levels fluctuated.
5. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Indiana Dunes National Park is home to over 350 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and several species of warblers.
6. The park’s ecosystems are incredibly diverse. Indiana Dunes National Park is home to several distinct ecosystems, including dunes, beaches, forests, and wetlands. These ecosystems support a variety of plant and animal species, making the park a biodiversity hotspot.
7. The park has a rich cultural history. Indiana Dunes National Park has been inhabited by humans for over 10,000 years, and the park’s cultural history is reflected in its historic sites and buildings. The Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm are two historic sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s past.
8. The park offers several water-based recreational activities. Indiana Dunes National Park offers several water-based recreational activities, including swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can fish for salmon, trout, and bass in the park’s lakes and streams.
9. It is located near several major cities. Indiana Dunes National Park is located just 50 miles east of Chicago, making it easily accessible to visitors from the city. The park is also located within a few hours’ drive of several other major cities, including Indianapolis and Detroit.
10. The park is a popular destination for camping. Indiana Dunes National Park offers several campgrounds that cater to a range of camping styles, from primitive tent camping to RV camping with full hookups. The park’s campgrounds offer visitors a chance to sleep under the stars and experience the park’s natural beauty.
11. The park’s visitor center is located in a historic building. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located in a historic train station that was built in 1929. The building has been beautifully restored and now serves as the park’s main visitor center.
12. The park is a popular destination for winter sports. Indiana Dunes National Park offers several opportunities for winter sports, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors can explore the park’s winter landscape and enjoy the peacefulness of the snow-covered wilderness.