Central Avenue Walk-In Sites

Summary

Indiana Dunes National Park is a 15,000 acre natural oasis located on the shores of Lake Michigan. With 50 miles of trails, a variety of wildlife, and an abundance of seasonal activities, Indiana Dunes National Park is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore sandy beaches, mysterious wetlands, prairies, rivers, and forests. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Indiana Dunes National Park.

Overview

Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

Recreation

There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. 

As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Go to https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/calendar.htm for our list of Ranger lead programs.

Facilities

The Central Beach Walk-In Sites has 5 sites the you will walk a distance to get to your campsite. There is a port a john restroom by the Central Beach Parking Lot. There is no drinkable water in the area so you must bring your own water. There is a Picnic table and a fire pit at each site.

Natural Features

Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks and one National Historical Landmark are located within its boundaries.  

The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource. 

For more information on our natural features use this link: https://www.nps.gov/indu/learn/nature/index.htm

Nearby Attractions

Located close to the campground is Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan which is located less than 5,000 feet from the site.

Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance.

A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles Southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12.

The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue.

The Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

Charges & Cancellations

A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Camping reservations cancelled the day before and day of arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee

For information on the Cancellation policy please go to this link, https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies