Looking for a Midwest getaway that blends sandy beaches, hiking trails, and unique wildlife? Indiana Dunes National Park is a gem along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offering over 15,000 acres of dunes, forests, wetlands, and prairies. One of the best places to stay inside the park is Dunewood Campground, a well-loved base for campers, road trippers, and nature enthusiasts.
Why Visit Indiana Dunes National Park?
- Over 50 miles of hiking trails through dunes, marshes, and oak savannas.
- 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline with beaches perfect for swimming and sunsets.
- Rich biodiversity: more than 350 bird species and rare wildflowers.
- Easy access from Chicago (less than 1 hour), making it a popular weekend escape.
Dunewood Campground Overview
Located just south of U.S. Highway 12 in Beverly Shores, Dunewood Campground offers a quiet, wooded setting that keeps you close to the lake while tucked away in the forest.
Facilities & Features
- 66 campsites (53 conventional drive-in, 13 tent-only)
- 4 wheelchair-accessible sites (15, 30, 41, 55)
- Flush toilets, showers, and drinking water available
- No electric hookups (perfect for a rustic experience)
- Some sites accommodate RVs, though size is limited
💲 Camping Fees: $25 per night (discounted for Interagency Pass holders). Reservations are required via Recreation.gov.
How to Get to Dunewood Campground
- From Chicago: About 47 miles east via I-90 or I-94
- By Train: South Shore Line stops at Beverly Shores Station, just 1 mile north of the campground
- Nearby Gas & Convenience Stores: Available within a short drive on Broadway
Things to Do Near Dunewood Campground
1. Lake Michigan Beaches
The campground is only 1.5 miles from the lakeshore. Popular nearby beaches include:
- West Beach – family-friendly with lifeguards and picnic areas
- Portage Lakefront – great for fishing and sunset photography
- Mount Baldy Beach – home to Indiana Dunes’ tallest moving dune
If you want to know what to expect when exploring the Midwest Great Lakes region, we recommend reading 10 Things Everyone Should Know Before Visiting Michigan.
2. Hiking Trails
Indiana Dunes offers 50+ miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging dune climbs. Favorites include:
- Cowles Bog Trail – diverse wetlands and birdwatching (4.7 miles)
- Dune Ridge Trail – panoramic dune and lake views (0.7 miles)
- Paul H. Douglas Trail – winds through oak savanna and wetlands (3.4 miles)
For official maps and trail conditions, visit the National Park Service – Indiana Dunes.
3. Wildlife & Habitats
From marshlands filled with herons to oak savannas dotted with lupines, the park is a hotspot for nature lovers. Seasonal highlights include spring wildflowers and fall bird migrations.
Tips for Camping at Dunewood
- Reserve Early: Summer weekends book quickly.
- Pack Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be heavy near wetlands.
- No Hookups: Bring battery packs or solar chargers if needed.
- Quiet Hours: 10 PM – 6 AM; great for stargazing with minimal light pollution.
Bonus: Looking for a longer escape?
Check out our full itinerary in The Perfect 3-Day Michigan Road Trip Loop, a regional loop that pairs beautifully with a stay at Dunewood Campground. Start with the dunes, then head north into Michigan’s vibrant lake towns, scenic drives, and hidden natural treasures.
