Indiana Dunes

09/02/2026

Dogs love our National Parks just as much as our human visitors do, so why not celebrate your favorite place to explore with your k-9 companions?

You can now gear up for your next outdoor adventure with our collection of Cycle Dog National Parks-inspired leashes and compact dog bowls, designed specifically for active pets and their nature-loving owners to help keep your dog safe and cool. ☮️🩵🐾

08/22/2026

08/20/2026

08/20/2026

The destruction left by the two storms that hit Northwest Indiana is immense. Communities, businesses, and parks like Coffee Creek Preserve are still struggling and will be for some time. Please be patient as we recover from this disaster.

The Coffee Creek Preserve in Chesterton closed and is cleaning up after getting slammed by back-to-back storms. ⤵️ Find a link to the story in the comments.

08/19/2026

It's all about dogs this month at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, and we're excited to spotlight one of our favorite local, dog-loving brands in the Beaches & Beyond gift shop! 🐾

Logan's Ropes is a Porter County family-owned business creating durable, handcrafted pet toys that are fun for your furry friends and eco-friendly. Each toy is made entirely from upcycled T-shirts and comes in three sizes, making them a great choice for pups big and small.

Shop Logan's Ropes at Beaches & Beyond, open daily from 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, Indiana.

🐾 **ADOPTABLE PET SPOTLIGHT**
Meet **Juliana and Fonzi!** These two cuties are currently available for adoption through the Porter County Animal Shelter. ❤️ Visit their page to learn more about Juliana, Fonzi, and other pets looking for their forever homes.

08/18/2026

After the August 11th storm, we have compiled a list of storm related updates to park areas and their conditions. Please check back often if needed.

• Douglas Center – lower parking lot and trail system closed, blocked with downed trees. Building is open.
• Tolleston Dunes – parking lot and trails closed due to downed trees.

This list is subject to change without notice. Please check out our status page linked below for the most up-to-date list. Many park areas are inaccessible after the August 11th storm. Avoid swimming in the lake after heavy rain and use extra caution. Most locations are without power and are out of service.

For more information, please visit our park status page at https://www.nps.gov/indu/status.htm

Images description: A forest trail blocked by multiple large fallen and splintered trees, with a warning symbol placed over the scene.

08/13/2026

Thank you to the dedicated Park Rangers who have been working hard to keep visitors safe and informed at the Visitor Center and throughout the park.

08/13/2026

8/14/26 UPDATE: The following preserves are open -- Ambler Flatwoods, Lydick Bog, Cressmoor Prairie, Ivanhoe South, and Bayless Dunes

For your safety, please do not enter any preserve that has not been cleared for opening.

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Please be advised that we are dealing with major storm damage across multiple preserves. Our stewardship team is hard at work assessing the damage in detail and formulating plans to begin restorations.

At this time, please avoid our preserves in Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties. These preserves are currently unsafe for guests to visit. If you're looking for a place to walk, Lydick Bog remains in good condition and open to the public.

We appreciate your patience as our team begins this recovery process. ❤️‍🩹

08/13/2026

The Visitor Center will be closed on Thursday, August 13. Park Rangers are stationed outside to answer questions, sell passes, and help visitors.