Dunewood Campground stands 15 miles from Lake Michigan's southern shoreline in Indiana Dunes National Park. The area features unique ecological zones where prairie, wetland, and forest ecosystems converge across 15,000 acres of protected land. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore offer limited amenities with vault toilets, drinking water, and tent pads, though some provide electric hookups and shower facilities.
What to do
Explore quiet trails: At Dunewood Campground, visitors can access multiple hiking paths. "The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," notes Katie O.
Scale the dunes: The soft sandy terrain creates a unique hiking experience. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic. The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," explains Greg S. from Indiana Dunes State Park.
Fish at inland lakes: Just 35 miles from the dunes, Last Resort Campground offers fishing opportunities. "There is a fishing pond and in ground pool," states William S., allowing for water activities beyond Lake Michigan.
Visit Chicago by train: The South Shore commuter train connects Michigan City to downtown Chicago. "For those who wish to visit the city, the South Shore commuter train will transport visitors from Michigan City to Chicago without the hassle of city traffic and expensive parking fees," according to Jennifer T. at Michigan City Campground.
What campers like
Affordable access: Basic camping at Indiana Dunes National Park costs $25 per night. "25$ a night no electric much but a park pass also for 25$," mentions Hannah R., making it budget-friendly for overnight stays.
Clean facilities: Shower buildings at many campgrounds receive regular maintenance. "The shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," reports Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feeling of certain areas. "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long," shares Don W. about Central Avenue Walk-in Sites.
Spacious lots: Sand Creek Campground offers generous site sizes. "There were several open spots on that rainy Sunday, so we were allowed to pick any open spot. Some spots were out in the open, others along the tree line, and a few in the woods. All sites had a picnic table, fire ring, and seemed fairly level," notes Meghan B.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks near several campgrounds create consistent noise. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," writes Katherine T. about Dunewood.
Insects: Summer months bring increased bug activity. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," warns Katrin M.
Seasonal crowds: Peak summer attendance impacts experience. "The campground was full, but not everyone showed, meaning that it didn't really feel crowded there," explains Katie O.
Beach conditions: Warren Dunes State Park Campground across the state line offers additional beach access. "Alas, the beach showed heavy use with sand that was just a bit grittier than shores we visited in the northern mitten," notes Richard E.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Michigan City Campground offers water recreation beyond the lake. "The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing... the campground space is tight. You will be pretty close to people around you, many with kids. It seems kind of like a family retreat type of location," reports Cassiey K.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "Our site was right between the playground and beach trailhead, but still private," shares Greg S., making them convenient for families with children.
Security features: Gated entry provides added safety. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," states Shane M. about Michigan City Campground.
Weekend activities: Organized events enhance family experiences. "Staying here started off as a last minute thing as we're driving through and made no arrangements for overnight lodging. With our rooftop tent, staying here was no problem," explains Cassiey K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Indiana Dunes State Park, certain areas offer more privacy. "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," advises Greg S.
Hookup limitations: Water access varies by campground. "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," shares Greg S.
Driving distances: Factor in transit time between campground and beach. "It was not a long car ride at all to Lake Michigan," mentions Katrin M. at Dunewood.
Space constraints: RV site dimensions require consideration. "We have a 37' motorhome and pulled a Jeep behind it. There was plenty of room to maneuver around," notes Chris M. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
