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Camping near Indiana Dunes National Park

592 Reviews

While you may not think of Indiana first when you think of nature lovers’ bucket list spots, Indiana Dunes State Park is an underrated gem. With a tandem national park, Indiana Dunes has one major campground in the state park and one in the national park.

There are a few campsites in the state and national park sections, but reservations are always a good idea. You can reserve a spot ahead of time on the state park website. Of the two, you may find the national park area is usually a bit more secluded. With more than 100 large, RV-friendly sites, RV and tent campers can enjoy this patch of Indiana. The best camping near Indiana Dunes State Park is in the national park or Dune Acres. You should be able to get a spot when you want one, but if you want more amenities, you can stay in nearby Chesterton, IN.

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Maple Ridge Campground

Maple Ridge Campground

47 min away

Route 66 Joliet

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1 hr 19 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Indiana Dunes National Park (58)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer."

    "A shout out to Dune Wood campground in Indiana Dunes National Park. Big, clean sites. They are sand/dirt pads and they rake them clean between each guest. We were impressed!"

    2. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $23 / night

    "The state park is located within the boundaries of the Indiana Dunes National Park (formerly National Lakeshore), so don't get confused by this."

    "The most beautiful state park in Indiana IMO."

    3. Michigan City Campground

    22 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 872-7600

    "Less than 15 min to Indiana Dunes National Park."

    "It's easy access, clean spacious sites, and how quiet it was considering it proximity to S.R. 421 brought us back again this year. We visited Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park."

    4. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-7482

    $30 - $90 / night

    "We spent the weekend exploring America’s 61st National Park- Indiana Dunes National Park. The National Park campsite was full and recommended this place about 10 minutes away."

    "First time to Indiana with a quick trip to the Dunes. We were disappointed the state park was full but found this campground close by."

    5. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance."

    "There are sand dunes in the park just walking distance from some campsites. You can climb these dunes to the beach ( a farther walk) or take a short drive. They have restrooms/showers."

    6. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 762-7757

    $49 - $57 / night

    "A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."

    "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."

    7. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

    1 Review
    Beverly Shores, IN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "It’s far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long. Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail."

    8. Last Resort Campground

    11 Reviews
    Hanna, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 797-2267

    "We wanted a place close to my elderly parents house and Last Resort fit the bill. Overall it is a pleasant campground with a pool, a pond, and some weekend activities."

    "We were super close to fellow campers.On the other side of the grounds around the pond (electric only) sites were much bigger and secluded. Despite the tight space, the kids loved it here."

    9. Potato Creek State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 656-8186

    $20 - $90 / night

    "I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean."

    "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust. Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."

    10. Weko Beach Campground

    20 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 465-3406

    $50 - $30 / night

    "you can drive right up!"

    "Our site was in the RV section next to the beach. The sites were open and dirt/sand--ours was up on a bit of a hill. Worked great for exploring the area."

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Recent Camping Photos near Indiana Dunes National Park

175 Photos of 58 Indiana Dunes National Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Indiana Dunes National Park

592 Reviews of 58 Indiana Dunes National Park Campgrounds

  • Nadiehsda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    We came for a weekend… Stayed nearly 2 weeks! Oak Lake RV Resort is where family memories are made.

    6 people, 1 pup & a 44.4' Keystone Sprinter... Oak Lake RV Resort handled it all with ease & gave us the BEST camping trip ever! From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??

    We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend. We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more!!Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s’mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!

    Rebecca deserves a huge shoutout for going above & beyond! Tom & Marianne, the owners, are amazing hosts who clearly pour their hearts into making Oak Lake special. Even the coin operated laundry was a lifesaver & convinced us we need a washer/dryer in our camper for future impromptu stays 😂.

    We’re already talking about being put on the list for a seasonal site for next year bc we know we’ll be back again & again. Oak Lake RV Resort is Newton County’s hidden gem!!! If you’re searching for fun, hospitality & true family camping memories... THIS is the place!! Hands down, every time.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

  • Kevin B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Camp Sullivan

    Enjoyed the camping experience

    Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Camp Shabbona Woods

    Not the best but acceptable

    Stayed the weekend. Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can’t keep your vehicle close to your campsite. The good the bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Michigan City Campground

    66$ for a good overnight!

    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! There was water hookups and electricity if desired, although we didn’t use them.

    The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing.

    I do recommend this place, however, few things to know: 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 and honestly? It’s a whole vibe and if that’s for you, then this place is too!

    #GoAnyway

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park

    Quiet, well kept spot

    We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. Theres a playground as well. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds I clouding access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open. Close to a grocery store and not far from US 41.

  • G
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Weko Beach Campground

    Wonderful site, easy beach access

    Campground was clean, with trails leading directly to Weko beach with gorgeous walking paths. Highly recommend, definitely a hidden gem.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Clean and quiet

    The grounds were well kept and clean. Even though it was pretty booked when we were there it didn’t feel crowded. Overall pleasant experience.

  • Kaitlin M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Close to city, very peaceful

    Really nice campground. No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors. I made a reservation for the wrong campground and meant to book this one and the staff helped me switch my reservation and make a new one. Really great!

Guide to Indiana Dunes National Park

Camping near Indiana Dunes National Park offers a fantastic way to enjoy nature while being close to beautiful beaches and scenic trails. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to make your stay enjoyable.

What to do:

  • Explore the Dunes: The Indiana Dunes National Park is famous for its towering sand dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Many campers enjoy hiking the trails, with one reviewer from Dunewood Campground noting, "We had good cell service but obviously the trees prevented Starlink. Our site was huge and the bathrooms were clean with individual locking showers and a dish sink."
  • Visit the Beach: Spend a day at the beach! Campers at Warren Dunes State Park Campground rave about the nearby beach access. One camper said, "The beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!"
  • Hiking and Biking: The area has numerous trails for hiking and biking. A visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground mentioned, "Recommend e-bike as some hills. Campground is clean and feels safe."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Potato Creek State Park Campground said, "The bathhouse was a bit dated, but pretty clean. Individual stall showers with inner and outer curtains."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have friendly hosts who make the experience better. A camper at Michigan City Campground shared, "Very well kept, safe supervision, quiet clean facilities."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. One visitor at Sand Creek Campground noted, "Some spots were out in the open, others along the tree line, and a few in the woods."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at certain campgrounds. A reviewer at Dunewood Campground warned, "The mosquitoes here are insane!!! I came back with giant welts from the bites even with bug spray on."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near roads or railways, which can be noisy. A visitor at Warren Dunes State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busier campgrounds during weekends and holidays. A camper at Michigan City Campground said, "The sites are close together and the fire rings are small."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for campgrounds that offer playgrounds and activities for kids. A reviewer at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Great playground on the east side of the first loop. Kids seem to play there for hours."
  • Plan for Beach Days: Make sure to schedule beach time. A camper at Weko Beach Campground said, "The campsite is pretty basic, but has electricity and water. It’s just quite dusty and there is zero privacy. But it’s right next to Weko beach."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra supplies like bug spray and sunscreen. A visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground advised, "Be aware that because it shares an entrance to the state park beach, entering on a summer Saturday or summer Sunday can take upwards of 45 minutes or more."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Bear Cave RV Campground noted, "Like many TT parks, lots of seasonal residents but unlike many other parks, the full-timers are not dismissive of the recreational and nomadic campers."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Choose campgrounds that offer full hookups for convenience. A camper at Last Resort Campground mentioned, "The site was a little small but was pull through and full hookup."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas may have poor reception. A visitor at Bear Cave RV Campground said, "The Verizon service is 1 bar at best."

Camping near Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of camping are permitted within Indiana Dunes National Park?

Indiana Dunes National Park permits tent and RV camping at Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park, the primary campground within park boundaries. The sites feature sand/dirt pads that are raked clean between guests, with each site including a small paved parking area for two vehicles. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park offers hike-in camping near Beverly Shores with basic facilities including toilets. Backcountry camping is not permitted within the park boundaries. All camping requires proper reservations, and campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings.

Are there private campgrounds with more privacy near Indiana Dunes?

Yes, several private campgrounds near Indiana Dunes offer more privacy than the national park camping options. Sand Creek Campground provides clean, well-maintained sites about 10 minutes from the national park with tent camping areas that offer more seclusion. Michigan City Campground features spacious sites with good separation between campers, located less than 15 minutes from Indiana Dunes National Park. The campground is noted for being surprisingly quiet despite its proximity to SR 421. Both options provide cleaner facilities and more privacy than you might find at the busier national park campgrounds during peak season.

Can I camp along rivers near Indiana Dunes National Park?

While Indiana Dunes National Park itself doesn't offer riverside camping, there are options in the surrounding area. Lakeshore Camp Resort features a small lake that offers fishing opportunities, though it's more of a lake than a river setting. For true river camping experiences, you'll need to venture a bit further from the dunes. Potato Creek State Park Campground is within driving distance and offers camping near water features. When planning riverside camping, check with local authorities about water levels and conditions, as these can vary seasonally and affect site availability and safety.

Is free camping available near Indiana Dunes National Park?

Free camping is not readily available directly near Indiana Dunes National Park. Most camping options in the area require fees, including the park's main campground. For budget-friendly alternatives, consider Last Resort Campground, which offers more affordable rates compared to campgrounds directly adjacent to the national park. While not free, Weko Beach Campground provides beach access with your camping fee, though there is an additional $10 daytime parking fee. For true free camping, you'll need to venture farther from the park into national forests or Bureau of Land Management areas, which are limited in this region.

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