Indiana Dunes National Park Visitor Center

There were other campers and cars. It was quiet and felt safe. Bonus there is a porta potty in the parking lot. When I went to sleep i was the only car on that side. When I woke up there were 2 more cars. A lady said in the morning she saw my vehicle and thought ok looks like a good spot. Maybe about 10 total all the way around the building. Nature, flowers and trees in the area. Not just a parking lot.

I’d pulled up to the Indiana Dunes State Park overly optimistic that I’d find last-minute camping on Labor Day weekend.

I was stopped by a park ranger at the entrance booth when I arrived at 2am. They suggested I go to the visitor center where they allow overnight parking.

The lot was large and well-lit with plenty of other overnighters. Luckily it wasn’t too cramped and there are dark spots if you’re sensitive to light.

Port-o-potty’s were available during visitor center off hours. And it beat staying at a travel center.

The natural beauty of Indiana is underrated! Highly recommend if you’re stopping through and without a camping spot.