About Dunewood Campground
Overview Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests. Recreation There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs. Facilities The Dunewood Campground in the Indiana Dunes National Park has 66 campsites (54 drive-in sites and 12 walk-in sites; 4 sites are fully accessible). We have nice restrooms and showers. There are no electric or water hookups. The campground has accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. Some sites are limited on recreational vehicle length (please read each campsite description carefully). Natural Features Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resour
How to Get There
Coming from south of the park, follow I-94 to exit 26B. Take the right ramp and follow signs for IN-49 North for 1.0 mi (1.6 km). Keep left to stay on IN-49 North (State Road 49) for 1.7 miles (2.7 km). Make a sharp right onto US-12 E / W Dunes Hwy. In 4.7 mi (7.5 km) turn right onto Broadway. In abot 300 feet turn left onto Golf Wood Rd and to the campground. For more detailed directions for other areas of the park, check the Directions page on the park website.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Dunewood Campground
Heading to Dunewood Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Dunewood Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Dunewood Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258887) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Dunewood Campground?
Coming from south of the park, follow I-94 to exit 26B. Take the right ramp and follow signs for IN-49 North for 1.0 mi (1.6 km). Keep left to stay on IN-49 North (State Road 49) for 1.7 miles (2.7 km). Make a sharp right onto US-12 E / W Dunes Hwy. In 4.7 mi (7.5 km) turn right onto Broadway. In abot 300 feet turn left onto Golf Wood Rd and to the campground. For more detailed directions for othe…
How do I contact Dunewood Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 219-395-1882 or email: INDU_Communications@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources