national river dog info

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Located in the state of Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a unit of the National Park System designated as a U.S. National Lakeshore located in northwest Indiana and managed by the National Park Service. It was authorized by Congress in 1966. The national lakeshore runs for nearly 25 miles (40 km) along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, in Chesterton, Indiana. The park contains approximately 15,000 acres.

  • Pets are allowed on all trails and exterior areas
  • The national lakeshore beaches to the east of the Indiana Dunes State Park are open to pets (Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach and Lake View Beach).
  • Parking areas and along paved roads
  • Some campgrounds and picnic areas
  • Must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times
  • Pick up after your dog at all times – Leave no trace

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Pets are not permitted on the national lakeshore beaches to the west of the state park (Porter Beach, Portage Lakefront Beach and West Beach). Pets are permitted in parking areas and trails near the beach area, but must stay off the actual beach.
  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • Never leave your pet unattended or alone inside a vehicle
  • Never off leash – unless inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate or other portable kennel
  • Untagged dogs or dogs with uncurrent tags
  • Excessive barking

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Extreme range of weather
  • Extreme heat
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Poisonous Plants
  • Spiny and prickly plants
  • Predatory animals
  • Be aware of animal traps and hunting areas
  • Swim safely, extreme water areas
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water

Leash Laws: Most parks require dogs to be on a leash in some or all areas, however, some parks allow dogs off leash in certain locations, please consult the parks website before going off leash, Thank you!

  • Dog life vest or flotation device is recommended
  • Consult the park website before traveling all information is to be used as a guide.
  • Respect local wildlife.
  • Leave no trace – What you bring in, you bring out.
  • If you are visiting during the hottest months of the year, a “palm test” is recommended before walking your dog – place your hand on the pavement for a minute and see if it is comfortable there. If the pavement feels hot to your palm, it will be hot to your dog’s paws.

(219) 395-1882

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Website

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Camping

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Hiking

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Volunteer

We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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