Dunewood Campground in Indiana Dunes National Park offers non-electric sites for $25 per night and requires a separate $25 park pass. The campground maintains forested sites with good shade coverage and trails connecting directly to the park's extensive dune system. Most sites feature natural sand-soil terrain with designated tent pads. Despite proximity to Chicago, the area maintains a natural environment with limited development compared to nearby beach communities.
What to do
Climb the dunes: At Indiana Dunes State Park, visitors tackle the popular 3-dune challenge. "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," shares Jackie H. The soft sand trails are best hiked barefoot according to experienced visitors.
Lake Michigan swimming: Kimmel Beach within the national park provides beach access with varying water conditions. "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. from Dunewood Campground. Most beaches have designated swimming areas during summer months.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers direct access to extensive trail systems. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," writes Josh M. The trails connect to several other systems through the Dunes-Kankakee bike trail and Calumet trail networks.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain fishing ponds separate from Lake Michigan access. "We did fish in it and caught a bunch!" reports Rino S. about Lakeshore Camp Resort's lake. Fishing licenses required for adults with different regulations for Indiana waters versus Michigan waters within the region.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Michigan City Campground receives praise for its well-maintained bathhouses. "The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing," writes Cassiey K. Many glamping sites near Whiting utilize these facilities rather than private bathrooms.
Security features: Gated entry systems provide peace of mind at several locations. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean," notes Beth B. about Michigan City Campground. These security measures help maintain family-friendly environments despite proximity to urban areas.
Spacious sites: Warren Dunes State Park offers sites with good separation. "Lots of shade and plenty of privacy between sites. The bathroom seemed newer with clean bathrooms and private shower stalls," reports Heidi S. Sites on the outer loop from the beach trail to nature center offer the most privacy against the dunes.
Wildlife viewing: Indiana Dunes glamping locations provide habitat for diverse animal species. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," shares Hatie P. Morning birdwatching particularly productive from spring through fall migration periods.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near most campgrounds in the region. "You can hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink," writes Truly W. about Dunewood. Similarly, Katherine T. notes: "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service."
Limited availability: The national park campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The campground was fully booked, but not everyone showed, meaning that it didn't really feel crowded there," explains Katie O. Most glamping sites around Whiting require reservations several months in advance.
Alcohol restrictions: Oak Lake RV Resort permits alcohol, while Warren Dunes State Park strictly prohibits it. "If you think the rangers don't enforce that rule, you're wrong. Our neighbors got busted for it when we were there," warns Dave E. Check specific campground policies before bringing alcoholic beverages.
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures can make tent camping uncomfortable without proper ventilation. "Brutally hot but otherwise nice," reports Katie O. about Dunewood Campground. Many visitors opt for glamping accommodations with climate control during July and August when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," writes Sadie H. about Oak Lake RV Resort. These facilities provide convenient entertainment without leaving the campground.
Beach considerations: Lake Michigan conditions vary daily with wind and wave action. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," shares Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park. Check water quality reports before swimming as conditions can change rapidly.
Camp store availability: Most developed campgrounds maintain supplies for forgotten items. "The camp store is large and stocked pretty well," notes Rino S. about Lakeshore Camp Resort. Basic camping supplies, ice, firewood, and limited groceries typically available with inflated pricing compared to nearby stores.
Activity options: Glamping near Whiting provides structured entertainment at several locations. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," explains Layla P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Water activities, outdoor movies, and organized events scheduled regularly during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site advantages: Camp Sullivan and other nearby campgrounds offer varied site layouts. "The sites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," reports Lisa S. Most glamping accommodations near Whiting maintain better spacing than standard RV sites.
Hookup limitations: Electric-only sites common throughout the region with limited full-hookup availability. "Only offered electric service. Beach access is close by," notes Jon S. about Indiana Dunes State Park. Fill fresh water tanks before arrival and plan for dumping stations rather than sewer connections at most locations.
Level site preparation: Most campgrounds maintain reasonably level sites without excessive preparation needed. "Nice big sites, easy to get in and out. Sites are not marked very well though," explains Tammi L. about Oak Lake RV Resort. Check site dimensions when booking as some locations restrict larger rigs.
Management interactions: Staff responsiveness varies between public and private campgrounds. "Staff were very friendly and helpful. It was a short drive to Lake Michigan," reports Michael D. about Michigan City Campground. During busy periods, check-in lines can extend waiting times significantly at popular locations.
