Indiana Dunes National Park offers several cabin and yurt camping options within 30 miles of Hammond, Indiana. Situated along Lake Michigan's southern shore, these campgrounds provide easy access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes. The region features sandy terrain with dunes reaching up to 200 feet in height and summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F with frequent lake breezes.
What to do
Tackle the dune challenges: At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, the Three Dune Challenge presents a moderate hiking experience. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," notes Jackie H. The cool soft sand feels great on bare feet during summer hikes.
Explore mountain biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides access to extensive trail systems. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day," shares Tim K., highlighting the popularity among serious cyclists who frequently transport high-end bikes to the area.
Enjoy water recreation: The private lake at Lakeshore Camp Resort offers seasonal summer activities. "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," reports Chad Y., indicating flexibility even during shoulder seasons.
What campers like
Privacy and space: At Dunewood Campground, the sites provide decent separation. "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," explains Katherine T., highlighting amenities not commonly found at basic sites.
Security features: Michigan City Campground implements controlled access. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," says Beth B., noting this security feature provides peace of mind for families and solo campers alike.
Fall foliage viewing: The region offers excellent autumn camping opportunities. "We arrived on a fall night, after the sun had set and we were thrilled to wake up to such an amazing display of Northern Indiana fall foliage. Campsites, facilities and trails were all super well maintained," shares Robert B., indicating the shoulder season offers visual rewards.
What you should know
Environmental challenges: Train noise affects multiple campgrounds in the area. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," notes Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground. Similarly, at Indiana Dunes State Park, trains frequently pass through at night.
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be intense depending on location and season. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," reports Katrin M., suggesting bringing strong repellent or screening solutions.
Site spacing concerns: At Oak Lake RV Resort, site layout varies considerably. "Nice big sites, easy to get in and out. Sites are not marked very well though," explains Tammi L., suggesting campers should clarify site boundaries upon arrival, particularly during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near play structures for convenience. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," shares Sadie H. from Oak Lake Family Campgrounds.
Weekend activity planning: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers family programming. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," recommends Dane S., who regularly visits with three children under age seven.
Beach safety awareness: Lake Michigan conditions require vigilance. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," cautions Anna G., highlighting the importance of swimming near lifeguards when possible.
Tips from RVers
Premium site selection: At Michigan City Campground, premium sites offer full hookups. "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull thought with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit," notes Craig C., emphasizing infrastructure quality exceeds typical campground standards.
Electric-only preparation: Some campgrounds offer limited hookups. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," suggests Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park, recommending proper tank management before arrival.
Arrival timing strategies: Many campgrounds have seasonal staff schedules. "Checkin was a breeze. The pool is the size of a backyard pool. There's a beach to the lake, but there's some garbage on the shore," mentions Rino S., suggesting earlier arrivals generally experience smoother processing than later check-ins.
