The best camping near Indiana Dunes National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Indiana Dunes National Park adventure.

100% (13 reviews)

Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.

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Community favorites near Indiana Dunes National Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Indiana Dunes National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Indiana Dunes National Park

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Blooming Bus Farms

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Niles, MI

Blooming Bus farms is a working urban flower, vegetable and fiber farm practicing sustainable, organic, natural farming practices. Spread out over 15 acres, upon completion, you’ll find 4 yurt sites and 3 byo tent sites. Working hard contributing to our compost are our alpaca and free range chickens. While this is a working farm, we try to not run any equipment before 10:00am! Inquire about reserving the entire property to host your group getaway!

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Mulln-Heim Vineyards

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Baroda, MI

This is a 3rd generation "Family Farm" of a different sort I suppose. Seems there's a bit of everything here, and arguably not enough of anything. At least for conventional farming. So we've learned to do things a bit differently.Our main crop is wine and juice grapes since our topography, climate, and soil type makes it a premier location for that. But with 30+ acres of forested hillsides, low ground, and natural areas we've evolved into a mixed farm and forest enterprise. Our goal is to utilize the productivity of all our property while still retaining the basic character and usefulness of the wild areas. Letting each thing be what it wants to be and does best on it's own. Flow, not force.So our year starts early with tapping maple trees and making maple syrup. Plus there's grape trimming about this time as well. When the forest floor starts to green up a bit later, we start digging Ramps, or Wild Leeks in the woods. Most of these will go to the more trendy Chicago restaurants, but we also have some local sales. Next comes inoculating winter-cut logs with Shiitake spawn for next years mushroom production. This year we also conducted a few hands-on workshop seminars on mushroom growing as well. Then it's on to our raised bed herb & veggie gardens. (Fresh herbs are just so much fun to cook with!) We grow enough for our own yearly use, as well as some for direct sales. Summer keeps us busy tending all the different crops here and trying to keep up. But there's that steady progression of fresh veggies to eat. Yum !!! Fall brings our annual Grape U-Pick in September and October. And we try to time related crops like mums, pumpkins, and gourds for this same time frame. Makes the place a bit more interesting. Late fall is when we bring in firewood to heat the house and workshop. Stacks of wood everywhere. Hopefully before the 1st snow. In winter it's time to fire up the woodworking shop and be a bit creative. Build furniture, equipment maintenance, who knows what next years projects will include. I like to keep everybody guessing.So, that's what goes on here. You're welcome to check it out, lend a hand, relax back at camp, walk the vineyards and/or forest, or just breathe and relax. That's up to you. But I would recommend visiting a few of the fine local wineries. Seems there's a festival going on at one or another of them just about every weekend. Good music, good wine, good times. And there's the Lake Michigan beaches a few miles down the road.Yeah, this is a pretty casual place here, love meeting new people, very open to civil discussions of all sorts.However, rude, ill mannered people will probably enjoy staying elsewhere. Just say'n.

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Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

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The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

8 sites · RVs1 acre · Chicago, IL

Twenty years of growing this farm... Not what grows here but the farm itself! Stone and brick pulled from the ground till we found the beautiful earth beneath and built an incredible community around it. Or rather, it grew itself from the energy that surrounds it. It's a special spot where you may happen upon a fire in the sugar shack while we boil city collected sap into maple syrup or have an open jam night with world class jazz musicians. Enjoy the morning serenade of our rooster! Really, just come and be here. Though we think we're pretty cool, a few things to note that you may not think are so cool: There is a train that runs directly behind the farm. Light sleepers, may want to bring ear plugs. We try to accommodate parking your car on site but it's weather and situation conditional. Assume the possibility that you may need to park on the street. Bring your tent to The Vaudeville! (RVs, campers, trailers, vans please see the ** at the bottom). Our urban farm is smack in the middle of Chicago only a 10 minute bike or train ride from Downtown, Lake Michigan, The Mag Mile and all Chicago has to offer! Bike the Lake Shore Trail, walk the 606, kayak the Chicago River, catch a blues show or Hawks game or just relax with the goats and chickens in the 9,000 square foot farm that we absolutely love to share with fellow campers! ** We have stopped hosting RVs, campers/vans, pull behinds and larger vehicles because we are finding it difficult to get them in the entrance gate but if you feel amazingly capable with your backing in skills in your rig and you're super patient, laid back and extra cool, let us know and we may be able to make it work!! :)

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Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Gary, IN

This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away. Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet 25 dollars for 2nd pet (75) 2 max pets

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The Haven with 4 Camp sites

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Niles, MI

The Haven camp site and wedding venue began in 2022, with a slow start; but as we jumped into the 2023 season, we made quite a bit of changes and ended the year with great success by: meeting new people and having many people come back for their second and third times! We strive to share the property that God has graciously blessed us with. The Haven is 3 acres of beautiful land on the St Joseph River. Our property setting is a hidden gem that opens to the most beautiful natural setting. The land offers a gorgeous view of the river and numerous shady sites nestled underneath a giant array of oak beach and walnut trees. Here at The Haven, the property has ample space for parking, room for various size camping tents and small pop-up tents small RV's, A dock for fishing, and access for kayaking. Fire pits and grill area for cooking and a complimentary bucket with some goodies to start you off. This setting is perfect for camping in a private nestled nook on the river. We have more than one area on the property to choose from. You can choose any site you would like: From the River’s edge, Beach Area (site 1) Small RV and tent site, or on the River under The Canopy of trees (site2) small RV and tent site. You also can stay at the Cozy corner (Site 3) by the woods and river in our new addition: Trailer that sleeps up to 4 people with all the amenities and can accommodate campers with tents as well, Or The Cove by the woods, small camper, and tent (site 4). Come Stargaze or hangout at the “spot” (dock) comfortably and lounge with views on the water or sit by the campfire at “The Pit.” Every site is first come first serve. Book earlier to get your desired spot! Bring your toys and play in the great outdoors! We have corn hole toss, horseshoe toss, but if you have toys you can use them here, throw the football or play some volleyball or Tether ball whichever and soon we will have Frisbee Golf! Or rent some of our Kayaks and really enjoy the river! Don’t miss out book now! -If smoking or drugs are discovered on the property the whole group will be asked to leave with NO REFUND. NO EXCEPTIONS. Alcohol will be at the owner’s discretion upon arrival. Please dump all trash in waste baskets provided. Please clean up after pets and please be responsible and respectful of others. The Haven

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Willowthorne

6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Lynwood, IL

Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit. Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience. Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience. Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby. PLEASE NOTE: Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round. Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area. In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine. Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY. Leave fire ring in designated spot. Never leave fire unattended. No fires on windy days. Extinguish fire before leaving campsite. Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety For Your Convenience: Firewood: Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.) Honey: We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer. Blueberries: Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay. Misc. We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies. Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome. We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!

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Lochloosa River Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Monterey, IN

Welcome to Lochloosa River Retreat! We are a small hobby farm on a little over 6 acres of partially wooded land with nearly 700 feet of river frontage on the beautiful Tippecanoe River! We offer primitive tent and primitive dry RV camping with indoor restroom and showers. There is a lovely creek that flows through the property, perfect for exploring and having fun for kids or the kid at heart! Lochloosa is like a sanctuary for wildlife and humans alike! Spend some time watching the many birds, arrange a tubing or kayaking trip on the river, fish off the riverbank, relax and have fun at the in ground saltwater pool complete with slide and diving board, or kick back at your campsite near the creek, gaining some ZEN while listening to the sounds of the babbling brook and watching the amazing sunrises and sunsets! Explore nearby Lake Maxinkuckee beach, named one of Indiana's top twelve lakes to visit and browse the shops and restaurants in Culver or travel 15 miles to Lake Manitou and explore all the fun restaurants and shopping Rochester has to offer. Whatever you decide to enjoy while you're here, we welcome you and hope you love this little slice of camping paradise as much as we do! We offer a limited number of tube and kayak trips. Please message me for more info or add it as an extra to your reservation to arrange your float in advance of your stay. All campers have shared access to one indoor family/unisex restroom with two toilets and two showers. Please be sure to check all info and rules for the particular site that you book. We allow pets in sites north of the creek only as our pets and farm animals live on the south side. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. There is a nearby country store within 2 miles that offers chicken, pizza, ice and miscellaneous items for your convenience!

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Organic Apple Orchard and Farm

1 site · Tent49 acres · Berrien Center, MI

This campsite is in the middle of Earth First Farms, an established certified organic apple orchard in SW Michigan. The farm is 49 acres, with the campsite being in a soft hollow about 200 feet wide separating 2 blocks of trees. Very quiet at night. In the day, depending on the season, there are farm activities taking place. Firewood is provided and fresh organic produce is available in season.

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Restoration Acres

2 sites · Tents8 acres · Medaryville, IN

Recently acquired property that used to be a farm. We are working to clean up the debris and add in trails, enjoy what we have to offer as we improve! Some areas are off limits for safety. We have a small pen of kunekunes pigs on the property as well. Note-. This is an active family property so you will hear/see children and normal family activities.

Glamp Chi Urban Campsite

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Chicago, IL

Welcome to Glamp Chi - An Urban Glamping Experience in Chicago! Dear Adventurers and Urban Explorers, Welcome to our little slice of paradise in the heart of the Windy City! We are thrilled to have you join us for a one-of-a-kind urban glamping getaway that promises to enchant your senses and rejuvenate your spirit. Fall is no better time to glamp and Chicago has an abundance of activities and itineries to explore with autumn colors, the smell of leaves, and orange sunsets. Step into our boho chic oasis, where luxury meets vibrant urban pocket in the most unexpected of places. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Chicago's vibrant and culturally rich streets, you'll find a tranquil retreat awaiting your arrival. Leave the ordinary behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great urban outdoors, without ever leaving the city limits. Nestled beneath a soft urban twilight glow and lush natural landscape, your Glamp Ground awaits. Adorned with eclectic decor and thoughtful touches, our urban sanctuary provides for elevated comfort and style in a private refuge. As you spend the day exploring one of many curated travel experiences – you’ll find our glamp site right in the center of it all. And as your urban explorations of the rich city of Chicago come to an end – you’ll look forward to retreating back to your urban oasis and unwind within your very own private urban glamp site. Whether you chose to eat at a local restaurant, take-out or pick up and prep a meal at your glamp site - you can be flexible as you return from your Windy City travels having a meal near your tent or within the optional kitchenette provided inside the oversized safari tent. As the sun sets over the skyline and you settle in to share in your experience of the day; catching a baseball game, attending a concert, watching city fireworks, or tasting an amazing meal from one of several local dining options – you’ll be able to gather within a private, gated setting around the fire pit to reflect on the stories and share in the laughter with a nightcap under the city shadows. And, when the time comes to rest for your next day’s adventure, you’ll be able to sink into plush bedding, falling asleep to the tranquil hum of the urban heartbeat under a safari sized, weather protected heavy-duty bell tent canopy. During your stay, take time to explore all that Chicago has to offer, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you choose to wander through bustling neighborhoods, sample local cuisine, or simply soak in the sights and sounds of the city, your urban adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap. Thank you for choosing to embark on this unforgettable urban journey which we have enjoyed for years. May your stay be filled with moments of magic, serenity, and boundless wonder. Happy Glamping! Glamp Chi

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Mustang Sally's Park

2 sites · Lodging45 acres · South Bend, IN

What to expect lodging at Mustang Sally's: Mustang Sally's offers glamping sites, primitive camping sites and small camper sites. In the future, the plan is to add RV sites and full service cabin sites. The most common question is "What is Glamping?" Well, glamping is glorified camping. Glamping has real beds and other comforts of home but in the camping setting. Non-Glamping sites are available for tents, pop-ups, trucks & van camping. Motorhomes are not allowed at this time. The goal is by end of summer to have tree height cleared in main driveway to allow clearance for RV/Motorhomes. Currently there are no shower facilities as of May 2024. Outhouses are available. Mustang is currently working on what will be called "Bath Row" with the plan of them being finished by July 1, 2024. Bath row will consist of 10 restroom units. Each unit will have it's own private toliet, shower and changing area. Camp Fires are allowed within the fire rings provided at each camp site. Please keep them under control and make sure they are totally out before leaving the camp site. Check in time is 3pm EST Check out is 11am EST. Quiet time is 10 PM to 7 AM Trash cans are located throughout the park. Please tie trash bags completely closed and put your trash completely in the trash container. If the first can is full, please find another container. Please do not place your trash on the ground. Possums and racoons are attracted to left out or disposed of food and while we think they are cute and wonderful animals, we don’t want you to find a surprise in the night of a visiting racoon at your site because of incorrectly disposed of trash! Feel free to bring your own bike. Riding bicycles on our main entrance road is prohibited for the safety of your children and our incoming guests. You are able to ride them everywhere else on the property, just not the main driveway. Cancelling your reservation on the day of or within 7 days prior to arrival will result in no refund. Cancelling your reservation 8 to 14 days prior to arrival, you will be refunded half of your total stay. Cancellations 15 or more days will receive a full refund minus a $15 processing fee. There will be no refunds after you have checked in, for inclement weather, failure to follow the Rules & Regulations, or disorderly conduct. Manager/Owner reserves the right to have discretion on all refunds.

The best camping near Indiana Dunes National Park guide

Overview

About

On the shores of Lake Michigan, epic sand dunes rise over turquoise waters. Just 40 miles from the large city of Chicago, Indiana Dunes National Park feels worlds away. Open year round, the park has a range of activities. Check out the hiking trails along the dune peaks, enjoy the sandy beaches, or go biking on one of the exquisite trails. In the snowy winter, explore the lakeshore while cross-country skiing. After a busy day, find a picnic table with a view of the surrounding natural beauty. Venture into Michigan City, Indiana, to find breweries, restaurants, and more.

Notable campgrounds

Best for national park access: The National Park Services offers one campground on-site at Indiana Dunes National Park in Dunewood Campground.
Best for camping with hookups: Nearby Indiana Dunes State Park has campsites with electric hookups.
Best for serenity: Dunewood Campground has 13 walk-in tent-only campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

While Indiana Dunes National Park is larger than Indiana Dunes State Park, the state park has more modern campground facilities.
Both are popular parks, so campers should book early.
Indiana Dunes State Park campground is open seasonally from late April through late October, and reservations may be made 6 months in advance.
Reservations open November 15 for the following camping season at Indiana Dunes National Park’s Dunewood Campground. Otherwise, reservations may be made up to 6 months in advance.
Dunewood Campground closes November through March.

When to go

Summer is peak season due to the bounty of lake recreation, including boating, kayaking, and swimming. Plan for full sun while hiking dunes, and carry plenty of water and sunscreen. Spring and fall are generally cool, with good weather for many types of outdoor recreation. The Indiana Dunes Birding Festival is celebrated each May, offering birdwatching tours led by experts. Due to its northern location, Indiana Dunes National Park has cold, snowy winters. The national and state park campgrounds are closed, though winter recreation can be enjoyed in both parks.

Know before you go

The national park previously went by the name Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.
While sewer and water hookups are not available at individual campsites, potable water and dump stations are available at both the national park and state park campgrounds.
Restrooms and showerhouses are located near the lakeshore for cleaning up after playing on the sandy beaches.
While tent camping at the walk-in sites at the national park, campers must bring their own water.