Dunewood Campground in Indiana Dunes National Park offers tent, RV, and glamping sites situated on flat, wooded terrain. The campground has specific campsite zones with varying levels of shade and privacy across its 67 sites. Most sites range from $25-30 per night and require reservations up to six months in advance during peak season (May-September). The area experiences high humidity during summer months with temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making early morning or evening activities preferable.
What to do
Hiking through wooded terrain: Visitors to Dunewood Campground can access multiple nature trails directly from the campground. "The campsite was large and beautiful... Lots of nature, chill vibe. Great experience!" notes Veronica S. Most trails connect to the larger network throughout Indiana Dunes National Park.
Cooling off at Lake Michigan beaches: Multiple beaches within 10-15 minutes of glamping close to Beverly Shores, Indiana offer swimming and sunbathing options. "We stayed in site #3, which had some good hammock trees. Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," shares Katie O. who camped at Dunewood.
Mountain biking at nearby trails: Michigan City Campground provides easy access to regional biking paths. "There is a swimming pool and a fishing pond," reports Erin B. The campground is only 5 miles from Lake Michigan and connects to several biking routes suitable for beginners to intermediate riders.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Indiana Dunes State Park receives high marks for maintenance. "It was also the nicest showers that I've been to to date," reports Kaley A. Many campgrounds in the area feature modern bathhouses with hot water, though weekend usage can lead to lines during peak morning and evening hours.
Kid-friendly amenities: Family glamping near Beverly Shores benefits from playgrounds and recreational areas. "This is a nice, family friendly campground. Lots of very friendly other campers, a heated pool, playground for the kids, nice size lots with fire pits," notes Gay G. about Bear Cave RV Campground, which is under an hour from Beverly Shores.
Privacy between sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are decently private with good tent pads. Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," according to Katherine T. who stayed at Dunewood. Many sites feature natural barriers of trees or undergrowth, providing separation from neighbors.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep quality: Several campgrounds near Beverly Shores are affected by nearby train tracks. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," explains Katherine T. about her stay at Dunewood. Some visitors recommend bringing earplugs, especially for light sleepers.
Insect protection is essential: Summer months bring mosquitoes and other biting insects. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," reports Katrin M. about Potato Creek State Park. Visitors recommend bringing repellent with 25-30% DEET and considering screened shelters for eating areas.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal variations. "Brutally hot but otherwise nice," reports Katie O. about summer camping. Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures but can bring unpredictable rainfall. Waterproof footwear is recommended regardless of season due to morning dew and occasional flooding on lower-lying sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity matters: When booking glamping accommodations with children, consider distance to shoreline. "Right near the beach, everything you need is close, staff is nice, and it's affordable," notes Rachael M. about Dunewood. Sites closer to beach access paths fill quickly, often 3-4 months in advance.
Reserve sites near playground areas: Lakeshore Camp Resort offers activities specifically for children. "This was a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," explains Chad Y. Many glamping accommodations include access to shared recreation facilities.
Check swimming conditions daily: Lake Michigan can have rapid condition changes. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," warns Anna G. about Warren Dunes State Park. Beaches with lifeguards are recommended for families with children, and morning swim times typically have calmer water.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds in the Beverly Shores region offer only partial hookups. "The campground was clean and it was quiet. The bathroom was a bit outdated, but clean," reports Katrin M. Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections are limited and book months in advance.
Consider site layout carefully: Premium glamping sites offer more amenities but book quickly. "We pulled in around 4:30 in the evening. The sight was spacious with plenty of room in between sites. The sight had 50 amp electric hook ups but no water or sewer connections, and we knew that going in," shares Chris M., who stayed at Indiana Dunes State Park in a 37-foot motorhome.
Dump station access varies: Facilities for waste disposal have different hours and may involve waiting during peak checkout times. "There is only one place to dump gray water in the entire campground," reports Traci J. about Warren Dunes State Park. Most glamping accommodations include access to these facilities, but usage times should be planned to avoid congestion.
