Camping opportunities at Indiana Dunes National Park extend beyond established campgrounds, with several private options within 15 minutes of park entrances. The region experiences Midwestern seasonal extremes with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter lows near 20°F. Rainfall peaks in June with approximately 4 inches monthly, creating seasonal camping challenges during wet periods.
What to do
Three Dune Challenge: Located at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, this trail takes you up and down the three tallest dunes in the park. "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," notes Greg S.
Fishing opportunities: Last Resort Campground offers a stocked fishing pond just 30 minutes from Indiana Dunes. "There is a fishing pond and in ground pool," explains William S. Many families enjoy combining fishing with swimming activities, particularly during summer months.
Mountain biking trails: Potato Creek State Park Campground, though farther from the dunes (about 50 minutes west), offers alternatives when beach areas become crowded. "With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes," explains Frank M. The Peppermint Hill mountain bike loop is particularly recommended for beginners.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Sand Creek Campground offers secluded tent camping options with wooded sites around the perimeter. "There are water pumps and outhouse restrooms on the rustic sites," notes Stefanie Z. "Some sites are 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."
Clean facilities: Michigan City Campground maintains shower facilities with strong water pressure. "The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing," reports Cassiey K. The campground also offers premium 90-foot pull-through sites with full hookups.
Lake access: Warren Dunes State Park Campground, just across the Michigan border, provides additional options when Indiana parks fill up. "Wonderful campground! Lots of shade and plenty of privacy between sites. The bathroom seemed newer (South modern loop) with clean bathrooms (cleaned at least twice a day)," writes Heidi S. The beach area features a dog-friendly section where pets can enjoy the water off-leash.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during summer months. For the Central Avenue Walk-in Sites within Indiana Dunes National Park, availability is extremely limited with only 5 sites. "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," explains Don W.
Noise considerations: Train traffic affects nearly all campgrounds in the region. At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," warns Kaley A. Light sleepers should consider bringing earplugs.
Seasonal pest issues: Beyond the mosquitoes mentioned in existing information, biting flies can be problematic at beaches. "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype... There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," reports Greg S.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Sand Creek Campground offers family-friendly amenities including a basketball court. "The campground is privately owned and was almost at the end of the season. There is a check in station at the entrance," explains Katrin M. The campground is approximately 15 minutes from the main Indiana Dunes beaches.
Beach access considerations: For those with children, direct beach access may require driving rather than walking. At Warren Dunes State Park, one camper noted: "We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance. Plan on driving your stuff to the beach or taking bicycles."
Shower facilities: Dunewood Campground offers shower houses with amenities for families. "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers," mentions Veronica S. Another camper adds, "Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, water hookups are not available at individual sites. "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," explains Greg S. Plan to arrive with a full freshwater tank.
Site selection strategy: For larger RVs at Potato Creek State Park, particular areas offer better accommodation. "We recommend securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. 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," advises Frank M.
Premium options: For those seeking full hookups near Indiana Dunes, Michigan City Campground offers extensive amenities. "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. 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," reports Craig C.
