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Park Prescriptions by Costa Dillon, Superintendent
The next time you visit your doctor, don’t be surprised if you’re given a prescription that includes a walk along one of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s trails! In April, park officials teamed up with regional health care providers to launch the first “Park Prescriptions” program, a new national program geared to help Americans improve their health using nearby neighborhood parks.
This simple and intuitive idea is one we often overlook—that fresh air, regular outdoor exercise, and connecting with America’s great outdoors is good for your body and soul. The park is free, there is never a fee (other than to West Beach in the summer). And, there are probably more active things to do than you may realize. Hiking, bicycling, canoeing, kayaking,
horseback riding, swimming, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and surfing are just a few of the activities available. Whether you like a short, easy stroll on a pleasant trail, such as along the Little Calumet River at the Bailly/Chellberg area, or a strenuous climb up the Dune Succession Trail at West Beach, there is some place and some activity in the park that will accommodate your interest and reinvigorate your fitness regime.
Regional health care providers are evaluating recreational opportunities with park staff and developing a series of “prescriptions” for their patients to support their individual needs. The possibilities can range from a stroll on a paved trail for a post-surgical patient strengthening a knee to a more strenuous hike that helps a diabetic patient with weight management.
Please help us spread the word about this exciting health movement that uses your neighborhood parks to inspire youth to develop lifelong good health practices, and encourages adults to invest in “green exercise.” Tell your health care provider about it and ask for a “park prescription.”
For more information or to get involved in this campaign, check for updates on the park web page at www.nps.gov/indu or call the park at 219/926-7561.
Take a stroll along the park’s newest trail and check out the health of the restored marsh. The Great Marsh Trail, a suggested “Park Prescriptions” trail, is fast becoming a favorite for area birders since it opened in the fall of 2010. During the spring and fall migrations, early morning and sunset visitors have been able to see flocks of coots and Wood Ducks gliding over the wetland’s surface. Kingfishers and Rusty Blackbirds rest here; you might even be lucky enough to spot a Sandhill Crane or White Pelican
pausing in these wetlands. Wading birds such as herons and egrets, warblers, and Red-winged Blackbirds are spotted throughout the warm months. The return of these birds is remarkable considering this area was drained, ditched and developed for over a century during a time when the value of natural wetlands was not fully understood. Since the late 1990’s, park staff have been working to restore native plants, remove non-native species and restore a more natural hydrology to the area. The return of birds, amphibians, and beaver are visible benefits of a healthy marsh. The “invisible” benefit is improved water quality flowing into Lake Michigan, as the wetland intercepts, filters, and then gradually releases cleaner water.
Located on Broadway Avenue, just a few hundred feet north of the South Shore train depot in Beverly Shores, the short trail from the parking lot leads to an elevated boardwalk and viewing platform.
Walk the Newest Trail
Mission of the National Park
ServiceThe National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.
Mission of Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore The mission of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is to preserve for the educational, inspirational, and recreational use of the public certain portions of the Indiana Dunes and other areas of scenic, scientific, and historic interest and recreational value in the state of Indiana.
Contact InformationADDRESS
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore1100 N. Mineral Springs Rd.Porter, IN 46304
GPS - N41.6336 W87.0544
PHONE219-926-7561 visitor information
WEBSITEwww.nps.gov/indu
TWITTERhttp://twitter.com/indianadunesnl
1-800-PARKTIP (727-5847)To report emergencies, criminal activities, or suspicious activity.
In This Issue
Page 2Ranger Guided Programs
Page 3Ranger Guided Programs
Page 4&5
Mt. Baldy Restoration Project Park Information
Page 6Safety and Parking Information
Page 7 FAQs
Page 8 Park Map
National Park ServiceU.S. Department of the InteriorOfficial Newspaper of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Summer 2011 - Vol. 32 No. 1
Printed on Recycled Paper
For information on listed and unlisted programs, Call: 219-926-7561
Programs that support Americas Great Outdoors Initiative. (See page 7 for more information)
Program Description Date & Time LocationDaily Junior Rangers by
the Lake
Learn about the national park while enjoying the beach. Children can complete an activity page about the lakeshore and earn a Junior Ranger Beachcombers patch. Get this free activity page from a ranger on the beach or at the visitor center.
Peak Beach Hours West Beach & Mount Baldy
Weekends Family Day at the Douglas Center
Enjoy the hands-on, family activities available in the center, help feed the center’s resident turtles or fish or join a ranger for a hike in Miller Woods. Call the Douglas Center at 219-395-1821 for this week’s special speaker or activity.
June - September1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
Chellberg Farm Open House
Go inside of the farmhouse and learn what life was like on a farm about 100 years ago.
June 11 – September 412:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Chellberg Farm
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm Walk
Join a ranger for a leisurely 1.5 mile walk that includes tours of two historic sites: the Chellberg Farm & Bailly Homestead. Children can complete an activity page and earn a Junior Ranger Heritage Patch during the program, too.
June 11 – September 42:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Chellberg Farm & Bailly Homestead parking lot
Fun at the Farm Kids, accompanied by an adult, can join a ranger to learn about both the work and fun had by kids about 100 years ago on an Indiana dunes farm.
June 11 – September 4 4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
Chellberg Farm
Wednesday Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm Open Houses
Tour the historic homestead of fur trader and land speculator Joseph Bailly, one of the area’s first settlers, and then take a short walk to Chellberg Farm to learn about life on an early Duneland farmstead. Kids can complete an activity sheet to earn a Junior Ranger Heritage patch.
June 8 - August 171:00 p.m. – 4 :00p.m.
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farmhouse.
Friday Music Heritage Series
Local musicians help sustain the culture of the Duneland region by sharing historic tunes using instruments like the hurdy gurdy and dulcimer.
June 17, July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 16 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
Mount Baldy Sunset Hike
Enjoy a sunset stroll with a ranger at Mount Baldy and learn about the threats faced by this famous dune and what you can do to help protect it.
June 3, June 24, July 1, August 12 June & July: 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. August 12: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Mount Baldy
Firefly Walk During this 60-minute program learn about the different behaviors that fireflies exhibit during the summer, and view the spectacular evening show. Also learn how climate change may affect insects like the firefly and ways you can help reduce its effects.
July 22 & 29 8:15 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.
Chellberg Farm & Bailly Homestead parking lot
Duneland’s Disappearing Night Sky
Come out and enjoy the dunes by starlight and observe the night sky through a telescope. Meet at the visitor center for a short indoor presentation on our endangered night sky and then make the short drive to the Kemil Road beach access parking lot. Insect repellent recommended and you may want to bring something to sit on. Scouts can earn their Astronomy Merit Badge at this program.
June 10, July 8, August 5, Sept. 2 June & July: 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. August: 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. September: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center
Saturday Discovering Your Neighborhood National Park (Campground Program)
Join a ranger around the campfire and learn about the diversity of park resources, and activities that can be found at the national lakeshore.
June 4 – Sept. 3 (Excluding July 2 & July 23)
June: 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. July: 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Aug.–Sept.: 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Dunewood Campground Amphitheater
Junior Wildland Firefighter Program
Meet the park’s fire crew and learn about their jobs and equipment. After this hands-on program, children will receive their very own Junior Wildland Firefighter activity book and a Junior Wildland Firefighter patch.
Campground AmphitheaterJune 25, July 23 & August 27
West Beach Contact StationJune 11, July 9 & Aug. 13
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
See Date & Time
Pinhook Bog Open House
Take a self-guided hike into Indiana’s only quaking bog. Rangers and volunteers stationed along the trail will help you understand this unique place filled with carnivorous plants. Allow about one hour to walk the trail and tour the bog.
June 25 July 23, August 27, September 24
(Except July 3rd) 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Pinhook Bog parking lot
Night Hike By the light of the quarter moon come and learn what is making those noises. Become more comfortable hiking outdoors at night accompanied by tonight’s ranger. This program is repeated under the full moon on Saturday, August 13 at 8:00 p.m.
July 23 & August 138:00 p.m.
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
Sunday Kids Fun at the Visitor Center
Join a ranger in the Visitor Center’s activity room for an afternoon of kid’s activities, stories, and fun. Also learn about the “Let’s Move” activities that kids can do to help stay fit in their national park and earn a sticker.
Sundays, Year-round Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center
Pinhook Bog Open House
Take a self-guided hike into Indiana’s only quaking bog. Rangers and volunteers stationed along the trail will help you understand this unique place filled with carnivorous plants. Allow about one hour to walk the trail and tour the bog.
Sundays, June 26 - Aug. 14 (Except July 3rd)
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Pinhook Bog parking lot
Ranger Guided Programs
Programs that support America’ s Great Outdoors initiative. Visit www.AmericasGreatOutdoors.gov
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PROGRAMS MAY BE CANCELLED WITHOUT NOTICE
Programs that support Americas Great Outdoors Initiative. (See page 7 for more information)
Ranger Guided Programs
If you only have one – two hours: •HiketothesummitofMt.Baldytoenjoy
a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and the national lakeshore.
• Learnabouttheeverchangingdunesandtheplantsthatcallthem home by hiking the West Beach Dune Succession Trail and boardwalk.
•RelaxattheIndianaDunesVisitorCenterandenjoythepark video, “Child of the Northwest Wind” for a virtual tour of park. Then, help the kids explore the center’s activity room to learn even more about this special place.
•TravelalongLakefrontDrivetoviewLakeMichiganandthe fivehistoricCenturyofProgressHomesfromthe1933 Chicago World’s Fair.• Bringapicnicandenjoyalakesidelunchateitherthe
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk site or Lakeview.
If you have half a day: • Joinoneofthemanyranger-ledprogramsdesignedto
help you find your own connection to this incredibly diverse national park.
• Loungeonanyofthe15milesofnationallakeshorebeachand enjoy beautiful views of the expansive Lake Michigan. Whileyou’rerelaxing,thekidscanearnaJuniorRangerBeachcombers patch by completing a fun activity sheet.
•TakeatripbackthroughtimeandtourthehistoricBaillyHomesteadandChellbergFarmtolearnaboutearlyDuneland history. Then, follow the same trail to Mnoké Prairie and learn about the restoration efforts underway in this rare habitat.
• JourneydeepintoInlandMarshtoexplorethetrailsthrough a fire dependant habitat and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Karner Blue butterfly, an endangered species.
If you have one – two days: • SpendthenightatDunewoodCampgroundtoexperiencethenaturalnightlifeofthedunes. During your stay, join a ranger around the amphitheater’s campfire for a Saturday evening program.• Ifyou’reexperiencedenough,kayakalongthenewLakeMichiganWaterTrailtoseethedunes
and national lakeshore from a whole new perspective.•HikethroughMillerWoods,arareblackoaksavannahtuckedbehindthePaulH.DouglasCenterforEnvironmentalEducation,and
explore the many interdunal ponds along the trail. Then stop in the center to check out the animal room and new exhibits. •Takeahikealongtherugged5-milelongCowlesBogTrailtoexplorewetlands,savannah,andhighdunes.Then,enjoyapicniclunchonabeachthatisonlyaccessiblebyhikingorboat.Lookingtoavoidcrowds?Enjoythelakeshoreinspringandfalltoavoidthesummercrowds. There are usually fewer visitors mid-week during any time of the year.
Take a Kid Fishing Day at the Dunes
Join “America’s Great Outdoors” initiative and do some fishing in your national lakeshore. Bring your own fishing gear and get tips on fishing from a park ranger. All ages welcome. This is during “Free Fishing Weekend”, so a fishing license is not required. However, all other state fishing regulations apply.
June 410:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk
Celebrate 25 Years at the Douglas Center
Join the National Park Service and partners in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education and “Leave No Child Inside” month. This free event will feature a variety of family friendly, hands-on activities.
June 2510:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
A pre-Fourth of July Picnic Join a ranger with your lunch in the picnic area behind the Douglas Center and look for elusive animals who may be watching you, too. In addition to your lunch, bring along your binoculars.
July 21:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
Kayaking Burns Waterway Join a ranger for a brief presentation of the “Threatened Lake Michigan” program and then go on a kayak tour of the Burns Waterway. You must bring your own kayak and life preserver.
July 1610:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk
Calumet Outdoor Series - Hike from Mt. Baldy to Central Beach
Join a ranger for a hike from Mt. Baldy site to our Central Beach site. Parking is limited.
August 20 9:00 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Meet at the Mount Baldy parking lot
Duneland Heritage Days Embark on a journey through 10,000 years of shared Indiana Dunes heritage at this popular festival.
September 17-18 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Chellberg Farm and Bailly Homestead
National Public Lands Day: Improving the Cowles Bog Wetland
National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest, hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance America’s public lands. Join a ranger to help improve one of our most threatened wetlands.
September 24 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cowles Bog south parking lot
Fall Colors Walk Take a hike with a ranger to enjoy the fall colors and to learn how the wildlife and woodlands prepare for the coming scarcity of winter.
October 221:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Calumet Dune Trail
Saving Mount Baldy
Join in as we remove oriental bittersweet and other invasive species in the Mount Baldy area. Also, learn about the other threats to this dune and what you can do to help. Meet at the Mount Baldy parking Lot.
June 189:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Mount Baldy parking lot
Rain Gardens Learn about the importance of wetlands and to help work on one of the lakeshore’s rain gardens and a nearby wetland. Meet at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Headquarters Flag Pole.
July 169:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Meet at 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road at Building 104.
Bailly Cemetery Clean-up Volunteer in helping to care for your local national park. Join in as we wash the stone walls and spruce up the grounds of the historic Bailly Cemetery. Meet at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Headquarters Flag Pole.
August 209:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Meet at 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road at Building 104.
Harvesting the Prairie Help collect seeds from this tall grass prairie that will be used to restore additional prairie lands throughout the national lakeshore. Meet at the Mnoke Prairie Parking Lot.
October 159:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Mnoke Prairie parking lot
Special Events
Stewardship Days
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Ranger Guided ProgramsProgram Description Date & Time Location
For information on listed and additional programs, call 219-926-7561.
Trip Planning Day1/22hrs
Day2
Day1
If you enjoy the massive sand dunes piled along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, thank a super star dune plant -- Marram grass!
Marram grass (Ammophila breviligulata) thrives in the extreme conditions of the dunes. The narrow waxy leaves and dual purpose root system help it endure high winds, shifting sands, and temperatures that range from frost to desert-like heat.
While the dune grass reproduces by seed, it also spreads a network of creeping rhizomes, which not only anchor sand, but can sprout new plants. These lateral roots, often only an inch below the sand, are susceptible to breaking with just a few careless steps by unknowing visitors. Do your part and stay on designated trails.
Mt Baldy Restoration Project by Sue Bennett, Chief of Education and Interpretation
Mount Baldy is one of the most recognized and popular dunes in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. While a few may argue that point, one thing seems certain, our current enjoyment of Mount Baldy is causing damage.
The expansive desert-like look of the dune and broad steep slope has attracted nearly 200,000 yearly visitors to the Mount Baldy area. Trampling feet have killed the marram grass and other vegetation that once helped hold the dune in place. While prevailing winds naturally move Mount Baldy an average of about four to six feet per year to the south, the loss of the anchor plants and increased sand erosion is accelerating movement at an alarming rate. A recent study indicates that the dune is now unaturally moving between eleven to eighteen feet per year.
Some have felt that Mount Baldy can be a “sacrifice area” where damage is ignored. In a national park, there can be no such areas. We are obligated by law to conserve and protect park resources and values. National Park Service management policies state that, “when there is a conflict between conserving resources and values and providing for enjoyment of them, conservation is to be predominant.” NPS managers must always seek ways to avoid, or to minimize to the greatest extent practicable, adverse impacts on park resources and values.
We are taking the following actions to restore Mount Baldy:
Protect the South Slope – We will maintain a fence barrier at the parking lot to prevent visitors from climbing up and down the south slope of the dune. This will reduce erosion of this portion of the dune and give plants a chance to grow without being trampled.
Restore Vegetation – The northwestern portion of Mount Baldy will be temporarily fenced off. Native dune grass will be planted to stabilize thishighestpointofthedune.Hang-glidingisprohibitedduringtherestoration.
Designate and Enforce an Appropriate Route – To reduce trampling and potential injuries from running into the parking lot fence, a route from the summit back to the trail will be clearly marked.
Reduce Social Trails – Post and cable fencing will protect three areas of the dune where visitors have trampled and killed much of the vegetation and created unofficial, “social trails.” When protected from our feet, vegetation can re-sprout in these damaged areas.
Visitor Education – Park staff and interpretive signs placed in key locations at Mount Baldy will help visitors understand what they can do to help us restore, while still enjoying, this beautiful natural area.
We will need everyone’s help if we are to succeed in restoring Mount Baldy. Please do your part by staying out of the restoration areas. If you observe others damaging the dune, please don’t hesitate to contact the park at 1-800-PARK-TIP.
Root Layer 2008
Root Layer 2005
Root Layer 2000
Surface Layer 2011Rhizomes
Broken Rhizomes
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ParkHoursUnless otherwise posted, the public areas of the park are open from sunrise to sunset. Most parking areas are open from 7:00 a.m. until dusk. Lake View parking area remains open until 11:00 p.m.
ProtectYour ParkWalk only on designated trails to prevent damage to park resources and minimize erosion.
Dispose of your litter and recycle items in marked containers. Leave all natural and cultural items as you find them to preserve the present and past. Collecting items such as shells, fossils, rocks, and wildflowers is prohibited.
Respect all wildlife from a safe distance. Never feed wild animals. Feeding wild animals is dangerous, harms their health, and alters their natural behaviors.
Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. For example, don’t bring firewoodtothepark.Exoticinsectpeststhatlive in firewood can kill native trees. Burn all firewood; take no firewood home.
Park Information
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor CenterLocatedonSR49,betweenU.S.Hwy.20andInterstate 94 near Chesterton, Indiana; open daily 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. in the summer and 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. in the winter. An introductory park movie is available upon request.
Douglas Center for EnvironmentalEducationLocated on 100N Lake St. Miller, 46403, Indiana. Open daily 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day. Check www.nps.gov/indu for winter hours.
GPS: N41.6336 W87.0544 GPS: N41.6061 W87.2678
Mount BaldyProtection Plan
Approximate Restoration Area
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Summer Beach Parking
For Your Safety in Lake Michigan
EnteringLakeMichiganisalotdifferentthan splashing in your local pool: it’s serious business! Wind driven waves can quickly create dangerous conditions that pose a severe threat to even the most expert of swimmers. People drown in the lake every year. Don’t let your visit end in tragedy.
If there are whitecaps on the lake, the water conditions are too dangerous for swimming or wading anywhere along the 15-mile shoreline. Steep, uneven waves can knock you off your feet and tire you out before rescuers can help. Rip currents can sweep you away, even from shallow water.
Lake Michigan is a natural environment. Sandbars, steep drop-offs, uneven bottom and debris all combine to make footing uneven and sometimes dangerous. Sandbars entice poor or non-swimmers to venture far from shore. Waves sometimes knock the unwary off the sandbar into much deeper water, occasionally leading to tragedy. Children and poor swimmers are particularly vulnerable to the sandbars.
Lake Michigan, like all bodies of water, is susceptible to contamination by natural and human created bacteria. When concentrations are high, these bacteria can pose a threat to yourhealth.Heedregional“NoSwimming”advisories and enjoy the lake from the beach. Evenoncleardays,youshouldrinseoffwithfresh water after swimming.
Parking Tips• Parking along the road is not authorized. • Smaller parking lots fill quickly during the summer months. • The large parking lot at West Beach, with 600 spaces, rarely fills. • You will be ticketed if you do not use a designated parking space. • Always lock your vehicle, and leave valuables in your trunk, out of site, or at home. • Some parking strategies may be to plan an early arrival, midweek trips, or visit during shoulder seasons.
Parking Lots Capacity Directions from Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center
West Beach 596 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12andproceedwesttoCountyLineRoad.Turn north on County Line Road and follow signs. Lifeguards are on duty. Fees are charged from Memorial Day through Labor Day - $6.00/car and $30.00/bus.
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Pavilion site 125 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12west.TravelwesttoJCT249south,whichisthefirstleftafterthetheoverpass.TurnleftonHwy.249southandstayintheright-hand lane to traffic light. Turn right at traffic light and follow the park signs.
Porter Access Point 66 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12westtoWaverlyRoad,andturnnorth.
Kemil Road 81 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12easttoKemilRoad(EastStateParkRoad),and turn north.
Dunbar Avenue 26 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12easttoKemilRoad(EastStateParkRoad),and turn north. At the dead end, turn east to Dunbar.
Lake View 40 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.12easttoKemilRoad(EastStateParkRoad),and turn north. At the dead end, turn east to Lakeview along this road.
Central Avenue 70 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.20easttoHwy.520north.FollowtoIndianaHwy.12easttoCentralAvenueandturnnorth.
Mount Baldy 120 vehicles FollowIndianaHwy.49northtoHwy.20easttoHwy.520north.FollowtoIndianaHwy.12easttotheMt.Baldyaccesspoint.
For Your Safety in the Park
Insect repellants work great to keep biting bugs away from you. Staying out of the woods during the very early morning or around dusk will also limit your exposure to mosquitoes. When you go exploring in the woods, you can keep ticks at bay by wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, with cuffs closed and legs tucked into your socks.
Bees, yellow jackets, spiders, and snakes are happy to leave you alone if you do the same. No amount of repellent will keep creatures from fighting back when you stick your hand into their home. When exploring the park, don’t put your hand anywhere you can’t see.
DangerPeople drown here each year. Be careful!
If there are whitecaps on the lake, the water conditions are too dangerous for swimming or wading.
Sandbars, steep drop-offs, uneven bottom, and debris all combine to make footing uneven and sometimes dangerous.
Park Safety Tips• Lake Michigan, one of five Great
Lakes, makes up the largest fresh water system in the world.
Fast Facts About Lake Michigan:
• Can you name the five Great Lakes?(LakesMichigan,Huron,Superior,Erie,Ontario).
• The Great Lakes make up 95% of the surface freshwater in the contiguous United States and have a total of 10,000 miles of coastline.
• Lake Michigan is approximately 321 mi (517 km) long and up to 118 mi (190 km) wide, with a maximum depth of 923 ft (281 m); it occupies an area of 22,300 sq mi (57,757 sq km).
• Over 10 million people get their drinking water from Lake Michigan.
• More than 40 drinking water plants from 4 states draw their water from Lake Michigan.
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Eastern National
Eastern National Bookstore
Eastern National provides quality educational products and services to the visitors of America’s national parks.
Top Visitor Questions
EasternNationalpromotesunderstandingandsupportoftheNationalPark Service by providing visitors with the information, materials, and experiences they need to fully understand and appreciate the importance of preserving and protecting America’s national parks for future generations.
EasternNational,anonprofitorganization,donatesaportionofitsproceeds to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore to support interpretive and educational activities and publications. www.EasternNational.org
Indiana Landmarks
340 West Michigan Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
1-800-450-4534
www.historiclandmarks.org
Dunes Learning Center
700HoweRd
Chesterton, IN 46304
219-395-9555
www.duneslearningcenter.org
Indiana Dunes State Park
1600North25E.
Chesterton, IN 46304
219-926-1952
www.IN.gov/dnr
DNRIndiana Department of
Natural Resources
Division of State Parks and ReservoirsINDIANA LANDMARKS
Partners
Where is the beach?
The 15-mile beach can be accessed from many different locations. There are access points located north of the intersection of County LineRoadandHighway12(Mt.Baldy),northend of Central Avenue, Lake Front Drive at Lake View, intersection of West Lake Front AvenueandDunbarAvenue,northendofEastState Park Road, north end of Waverly Road (Porter), Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (fromHwy.12takeHwy.249southandfollowpark signs), and north on North County Line Road (West Beach). West Beach has 600 parking spaces; other parking lots have limited parking. Please reference map located on page 8.
Where may I climb a dune? Mount Baldy is the only dune where climbing is allowed in the national lakeshore. You may scale the dune from the lakeside (north side) to the summit. Climbing is prohibited on the side adjacent to the parking lot because it accelerates the movement of the dune. Follow the trail from the parking lot, which leads around the side of the dune to a junction that offers a choice between the summit or beach trails.
West Beach offers a spectacular overlook on the one-mile Dune Succession Trail. Please stay on designated trails to protect sensitive dune species.
Do you close the beach when high waves are present or E. coli levels are high?
No. The national lakeshore does not close its beach regardless of water conditions. Risks are inherent in all natural areas. During summer months, lifeguards are stationed at West Beach. Lifeguards are not present at other locations of the beach.
Call 219-926-7561 followed by prompt #2 for informationregardingE.colilevels.
May I launch my boat and fish?
The park does not have a boat launch. Personalmotorizedwatercraft(JetSkisandWaveRunners)areprohibited.However,you may launch your kayak (or other non-motorized watercraft) at locations other than at West Beach. An Indiana state fishing license is required to fish.
How do I find out about beach regulations? Justlookforthissignonthebeach.
Do you have a campground?
Yes. The Dunewood Campground is open April 1 through October 31 and is located at the intersection of U.S. 12 and Broadway near Beverly Shores. The 79 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee of $15.00 per night. The restrooms are centrally locatedandhaveshowers.Electricalhookupsare not available; however, the campground has a dump station. Use firewood from local suppliers to help prevent the spread of invasive insects. Alcohol is strictly prohibited.
May I take my pet with me for a stroll or hike?
Yes. The national lakeshore has over 40 miles of hiking trails. Pets restrained by a leash are permitted on beaches east of the Kemil access pointandonmostparktrails.However,petsare not permitted on the beach west of the state park. Pets are not permitted on the new Great Marsh Trail. The Ly-co-ki-we Trail (intersection ofHwy.20andSchoolHouseRoad)isopenforhorseback riding March 16 through December 14.
Please hike with others and stay on designated trails for your protection and that of park resources. Trail maps are available at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, which is located near the intersectionofU.S.Hwy.20andIndianaHwy.49 in Porter, IN.
How do I reserve an environmental education program?
Teachers and youth group leaders should call Ranger Christy at 219-395-1885 to arrange for a free ranger-led program. Many of these programsareconductedatthepark’sPaulH.DouglasCenterforEnvironmentalEducationlocated in Gary/Miller, Indiana, and focus on the park’s resource issues.
Do you have a Junior Ranger Program?
Yes! Stop by the park’s visitor center and ask a ranger to help you select the junior
ranger program that best fits your visit. A Beachcomber’s program is popular with families spending just a few hours on the beach. A more comprehensive program is a favorite among those camping in the park. Other junior ranger programs are offered during special events. All programs are free. Children completing the junior ranger program earn aJuniorRangerpatchorbadge.Programmaterials are available at the visitor center and are downloadable at www.nps.gov/indu/forkids. Rangers often carry junior ranger materials with them for your convenience; just ask!
What is Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, and how do I get there?
This site is part of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and has a riverwalk, a fishing pier, parking lots, and an environmentally-friendly pavilion. The City of Portage operates and maintains this site through an agreement with the National Park Service. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk can be accessed by following Hwy.249northfromHwy.20andfollowthepark signs.
How can I volunteer at the national lakeshore?
There are countless opportunities to volunteer. Go to www.volunteer.gov/gov and click on Indiana. Our volunteer opportunities are listed there. If you do not have access to the internet, leave a message with Lynda, the Volunteers-In-Park program manager at 219-395-1682. We are looking for volunteers to provide information at our Visitor Centers, restore natural landscapes, and help educate visitors.
7
9. P
inh
oo
k B
og
A m
at o
f sph
agnu
m m
oss
keep
s ev
eryt
hing
from
tree
s to
in
sect
-eat
ing
plan
ts fl
oati
ng
abov
e an
anc
ient
, and
no
w-h
idde
n, la
ke. T
his
extr
emel
y ra
re a
nd fr
agile
ha
bita
t can
onl
y be
ent
ered
du
ring
rang
er-l
ed to
urs.
8. M
ou
nt
Bal
dy
Hik
e th
e tr
ail t
o th
e to
p of
the
nati
onal
lake
shor
e’s
larg
est
mov
ing
dune
. Mou
nt B
aldy
, at
126
feet
tall,
pro
vide
s st
unni
ng
view
s of
Lak
e M
ichi
gan
and
its
shor
elin
e.
6. L
ake
Vie
wA
s th
e na
tion
al la
kesh
ore’
s on
ly
picn
ic a
rea
over
look
ing
Lak
e M
ichi
gan,
this
site
offe
rs c
over
ed
picn
ic s
helte
rs. B
eaut
iful
sun
set
view
s m
ake
this
one
of t
he m
ore
popu
lar
park
ing
spot
s.
7. D
un
ewo
od
Cam
pg
rou
nd
Dun
ewoo
d is
just
ove
r on
e-m
ile
sout
h of
Lak
e M
ichi
gan
and
feat
ures
79
woo
ded
cam
psite
s.
Enj
o y c
ampi
ng w
ith th
e co
nven
ienc
e of
acc
ess
to
rest
room
s an
d sh
ower
s. F
ees
are
char
ged,
and
regi
stra
tion
is o
n a
first
-com
e, fi
rst-
serv
ed b
asis
. T
he c
ampg
roun
ds a
re o
pen
the
mon
ths
of A
pril
thro
ugh
Oct
ober
.
5. L
y-co
-ki-
we
Trai
lD
epen
ding
on
the
seas
on, h
ike,
sk
i, or
rid
e th
e fo
ur-m
ile tr
ail
thro
ugh
woo
ded
dune
s an
d w
etla
nds.
Bri
ng y
our
own
skis
or
hor
se.
3 C
ow
les
Bo
g T
rail
The
nat
iona
l lak
esho
re’s
mos
t ru
gged
hik
e ta
kes
you
on a
five
-mile
jo
urne
y th
roug
h w
etla
nds
and
over
bo
th w
oode
d an
d m
ovin
g du
nes
to
an is
olat
ed b
each
.
2. P
ort
age
Lake
fro
nt
Oct
ober
200
8 m
arke
d th
e op
enin
g of
the
nati
onal
lake
shor
e’s
new
est
loca
tion
, Por
tage
Lak
efro
nt a
nd
Riv
erw
alk.
The
new
faci
lity
has
park
ing
for
125
cars
, an
acce
ssib
le
fishi
ng p
ier,
a ri
verw
alk
alon
g B
urns
Wat
erw
ay, a
reha
bilit
ated
br
eakw
ater
, var
ious
hik
e/bi
ke tr
ails
, ac
cess
to th
e be
ach,
and
a 3
,500
sq
uare
foot
pav
ilion
that
con
tain
s a
food
ser
vice
are
a.
4. B
ailly
/Ch
ellb
erg
Exp
lore
an
1820
s fu
r tr
adin
g ou
tpos
t and
a 1
900-
era
Swed
ish
farm
stea
d. E
njoy
the
Dun
elan
d H
arve
st F
estiv
al
duri
ng th
e th
ird
full
wee
kend
of
Sept
embe
r an
d M
aple
Sug
ar
Tim
e in
Mar
ch. F
ollo
w th
e tr
ail t
hat s
tart
s he
re a
nd w
inds
th
roug
h a
wid
e di
vers
ity o
f la
ndsc
apes
, inc
ludi
ng th
e M
noké
Pra
irie
, the
Litt
le
Cal
umet
Riv
er, a
nd a
mat
ure
beec
h/m
aple
woo
dlan
d.
1. W
est
Bea
ch
The
re is
muc
h to
do
at W
est
Bea
ch, e
ven
whe
n th
e w
eath
er
is to
o co
ld fo
r sw
imm
ing.
G
rill
a m
eal a
t the
pic
nic
shel
ter,
wal
k a
mar
ked
trai
l tr
aver
sing
the
dune
s an
d fo
rest
, le
arn
how
pla
nt a
nd a
nim
al
com
mun
ities
are
repl
acin
g on
e an
othe
r th
roug
h ti
me,
or
wat
ch
mig
rati
ng w
ater
fow
l at L
ong
Lak
e in
aut
umn
and
spri
ng.
Nor
th
01
01
4 M
iles
4 Ki
lom
eter
s
53
51
41
12 20
90
94
6580 94
6
12
20
249
149
49
20
80 90
421
94
20
35
12
12
520
421
Dee
pRiv
er
Lit t
leCa
lum
etRi
ver
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ndC
alum
etRive
r
Salt
C r eek
Long
Lak
e
Lit t
leCa
lum
e tR
i ve r
Tra il
Creek
LA
KE
M
IC
HI
GA
N
Wes
t Bea
ch
Port
er A
cces
s Po
int
Cow
les
Bog
Mt B
aldy
Kem
il Rd
Acc
ess
Poin
t
Lake
Vie
w
Cent
ral A
ve A
cces
s Po
int
Dun
bar A
ve A
cces
s Po
int
Her
on R
ooke
ryPi
nhoo
k Bo
g
To Hob
art P
rairi
e G
rove
IN
DI
AN
AD
UN
ES
NA
TI
ON
AL
LA
KE
SH
OR
E
GA
RY
PO
RTA
GE
MIC
HIG
AN
CIT
Y
PORT
ER
CH
ESTE
RTO
N
OG
DEN
DU
NES
BURN
S
HA
RBO
R
DU
NE
ACR
ES
TOW
N O
F PI
NES
BEVE
RLY
SHO
RES
Bath
hous
eFi
rst A
id
Port
age
Lake
front
and
Rive
rwal
kPa
vilio
n
Paul
H. D
ougl
as C
ente
rfo
r Env
ironm
enta
l Edu
catio
nIn
form
atio
n
To Chic
ago
To Val
para
iso
To H
oosi
er P
rairi
evi
a
U.S
. Ste
el
Mill
erW
oods
Trai
l
Mar
quet
te Trai
l
Long
Lake
Tr
ail
In
land
Mar
shO
verlo
ok
Rest
room
s
Ogd
en D
unes
RR S
tatio
n
Mill
er R
R St
atio
n
Stee
lM
ill
Port
of
Indi
ana
Nor
ther
n In
dian
aPu
blic
Ser
vice
Co
(NIP
SCO
)
Dun
e Su
cces
sion
Trai
lW
est B
each
Tra
il
Stee
lM
ill
Entr
ance
Stat
ion
Inla
nd M
arsh
Trai
l
Bath
hous
e
Mt
Tom
Nat
ure
Cent
er
S S
tate
Par
k Rd
Tremont Rd
Dun
e Pa
rkRR
Sta
tion
Indi
ana
Dun
es E
nviro
nmen
tal
Lear
ning
Cen
ter
Oak
Hill
Rd
Waverly Road
Mineral Springs Road
Howe Rd
Baill
yH
omes
teadBa
illy
Cem
eter
y
Litt
le C
alum
etRi
ver T
rail
Chel
lber
g Fa
rm
Baill
y-Ch
ellb
erg
Cont
act S
tatio
n
Park
Hea
dqua
rter
s
Trem
ont
Mar
ina
Zoo
Mt B
aldy
Tra
il
Mic
higa
n Ci
tyRR
Sta
tion
200
Nor
th R
oad
T oKa
lam
azoo
ToSo
uth
Bend
(sch
edul
ed to
urs o
nly)
NIP
SCO
Mt
Bald
y
Dun
ewoo
d Ca
mpg
roun
dA
mph
ithea
ter
Calu
met
Dun
e Tr
ail
Indi
ana
Dun
es
Visi
tor C
ente
r
Ly-c
o-ki
-we
Hor
sean
d H
ikin
g Tr
ail
Dun
e Ri
dge
Trai
l
1400
Nor
th R
d
600 East Road
Brown Rd 500 East
Furn
essv
ille
Road
E State Park Rd dR li me K
Broadway
Beve
rlySh
ores
RR S
tatio
n
Mill
erAv
enue
County Line Road
dvlB dnarG
La ke Str e e t
Oak
Stre
etC
hic
ago
Sou
thS h
ore
and
S out
hB
end
Ra
ilroad
C owle
sB
og
Trai
l
Ind
i an
aE a
s tW
e st
Toll
Roa d
Her
onRo
oker
yTr
ail
Dunewo
od
Trace
W ozniak Roa d
Driv
e
Beverly
Centra l
Ave
Calu
met
Bik
e Tr
ail
CALU
MET
PRA
IRIE
STAT
E N
ATU
REPR
ESER
VE
IND
IAN
A D
UN
ES S
TATE
PA
RK
WA
SHIN
GTO
N P
ARK
Mar
quet
te P
ark
City
of G
ary
Boat
laun
ch
Stat
e Pa
rk o
rN
atur
e Pr
eser
ve
Nat
iona
l Lak
esho
re
Bicy
cle
trai
l
Hik
ing
trai
lRa
nger
stat
ion
Whe
elch
air-
acce
ssib
le
Self-
guid
ing
trai
l
Cam
pgro
und
Snac
k ba
r
Picn
ic a
rea
Swim
min
g ar
ea
Beac
h ac
cess
Cros
s-co
untr
y sk
i tra
il
Wat
er S
afet
yLa
ke M
ich
igan
wat
ers
can
be
haz
ard
ou
s.
Rip
cu
rren
ts o
ccu
r fr
equ
entl
y d
uri
ng
per
iod
s o
f h
igh
win
d a
nd
wav
es. D
uri
ng
th
e w
inte
r, sh
elf
ice
form
s al
on
g t
he
lake
sho
re a
nd
is n
ever
saf
e to
wal
k o
n. C
hec
k w
ith
loca
l au
tho
riti
es a
bo
ut
con
dit
ion
s an
d p
ote
nti
al h
azar
ds.
No
te: T
her
e ar
e n
o li
feg
uar
ds
at a
ny
nat
ion
al
lake
sho
re b
each
es d
uri
ng
th
e fa
ll, w
inte
r an
d
spri
ng
.
1
12
34
57
89
6
2
8
6
7
5
3
4
9
90
94
94
65
80 94
24
91
49
52
0
53
51
49
12 202
0
20
20
35
12
12
12
42
1
42
1
6
6
80 90
Dee
p
Ri
ver
Lit
tle
Cal
um
et
R
iver
Gra
nd
C
alu
met
Rive
r
Salt Cre
ek
Litt
le
C
alu
met
Riv
er
Trail
C re
ek
LA
KE
M
IC
HI
GA
N
Long
Lak
e
Burns Waterway
GR
EA
T
MA
RS
H
Lake
Mic
hig
an W
ate
r Tr
ail
GA
RY
MIC
HIG
AN
CIT
Y
PO
RTA
GE
HO
BA
RT
CH
ES
TE
RT
ON
OG
DEN
DU
NES
MIL
LER
BU
RN
S H
AR
BO
R
DU
NE
AC
RES
TOW
N O
F PI
NES
BEV
ERLY
SHO
RES
LAK
E S
TAT
ION
NE
WC
HIC
AG
O
PO
RT
ER
Bat
hh
ou
se
Pavi
lion
PO
RT
OF
IND
IAN
A
Stat
e Pa
rk B
ath
ho
use M
ou
nt
To
mN
atu
re C
ente
r
Du
nes
Lea
rnin
gC
ente
rB
ailly
Ho
mes
tead
Bai
llyC
emet
ery
Ch
ellb
erg
Farm
Park
Hea
dq
uar
ters
Mar
ina
Mar
ina
Zoo
(sch
edu
led
to
urs
on
ly)
Mo
un
tB
ald
y
CA
LUM
ET
PR
AIR
IES
TAT
E N
AT
UR
EP
RE
SE
RV
E
IND
IAN
A
DU
NE
S S
TAT
E
PAR
K
WA
SH
ING
TO
N P
AR
K(M
ich
igan
Cit
y p
ark)
MA
RQ
UE
TT
E P
AR
K(C
ity
of
Gar
y p
ark)
Sou
th S
ho
re L
ine
Bo
atla
un
ch
Info
rmat
ion
MN
OK
ÉP
RA
IRIE
We
st B
ea
ch
Po
rta
ge
La
ke
fro
nt
an
d R
ive
rwa
lk
Po
rte
r A
cce
ss P
oin
t
Mo
un
t B
ald
y
Ke
mil
Ro
ad
Acc
ess
Po
int
Lak
e V
iew
Ce
ntr
al
Av
en
ue
Acc
ess
Po
int
Du
nb
ar
Acc
ess
Po
int
He
ron
Ro
ok
ery
Pin
ho
ok
Bo
g
Pa
ul
H.
Do
ug
las
Ce
nte
rfo
r E
nv
iro
nm
en
tal
Ed
uca
tio
n
Du
new
oo
dC
amp
gro
un
d
1933
Cen
tury
of
Pro
gre
ss H
om
es
Tre
mo
nt
Inla
nd
Ma
rsh
Ov
erl
oo
k
Ind
ian
a D
un
esV
isit
or
Cen
ter
Pow
er P
lan
t
Stee
lM
ill
Pow
er P
lan
t
Stee
lM
ill
Mill
erW
oo
ds
Trai
l
Lon
gLa
ke
Trai
l
Du
ne
Succ
essi
on
Trai
lW
est
Bea
chTr
ail
Inla
nd
Mar
shTr
ail
Riv
erw
alk
Litt
le C
alu
met
Riv
er T
rail
Gre
atM
arsh
Trai
l
Ly-c
o-k
i-w
e H
ors
ean
d H
ikin
g T
rail
Cowle
s
Bo
g
Trai
l
Du
ne
Rid
ge
Trai
l D
unew
ood
Trac
e
Her
on
Ro
oke
ry T
rail
Mar
qu
ette
Tra
il
Prai
rie D
unel
and
Tra
il
Calu
met
Bik
e T
rail
Iron
Hor
se H
erit
age
Tra
il
Cal
um
etD
un
e Tr
ailBe
verly
Sho
res
RR S
tatio
n
Mic
higa
n C
ity11
th S
tree
tRR
Sta
tion
Am
trak
Sta
tion
Ogd
en D
unes
RR S
tatio
n
Dun
e Pa
rkRR
Sta
tion
Mill
er R
R St
atio
n
Exit
26
Exit
34
Exit
39
Exit
31
Exit
22
Exit
19
Exit
15
Exit
12
Exit
17
Exit
23
Mill
er
Ave
Grand Blvd
RiverwalkDrive
Lake St
Wes
t Be
ach R
d
County Line Road
Willowcreek Road
CountyLine Rd
Mineral Springs
Road
Lake
fron
t D
rive
MontanaDrake
Tremont Rd
Furn
essv
ille
Ro
ad
300 East Rd
Oak
Hil
l R
d
Bro
adw
ay
Ind
ian
Bo
un
dar
y R
d
Calumet Rd
E State Park Rd
Broadway
Central
Ave
Bev
erly
D
rive
1400
No
rth
Rd
600 East Road
450 East Road
Brown Rd 500 East
200
No
rth
Ro
ad
Wozniak Road
Howe Rd
Hem
lock
Ave
Oak
A
ve
Ind
ian
a T
oll
R
oad
Waverly Road
ToK
alam
azo
o ToSo
uth
Ben
d
To Val
par
aiso
To Ch
icag
o
To P
ort
age
Lake
fro
nt
and
Riv
erw
alk
001
1
2 K
ilom
eter
s
2 M
iles
No
rth
Cit
y Pa
rk
Stat
e Pa
rk a
nd
Sta
teN
atu
re P
rese
rve
wit
hin
bo
un
dar
y o
fN
atio
nal
Lak
esh
ore
Nat
ion
al L
akes
ho
re
Bic
ycle
tra
il
Wat
er t
rail
Wet
lan
d
Hik
ing
tra
ilR
ang
er s
tati
on
Wh
eelc
hai
r-ac
cess
ible
Self
-gu
idin
g t
rail
Cam
pg
rou
nd
Snac
k b
arA
mp
hit
hea
ter
Picn
ic a
rea
Swim
min
g a
rea
Bea
ch a
cces
sC
ross
-co
un
try
ski t
rail
Trai
lhea
d/b
each
acc
ess
par
kin
g
Ind
ian
a D
un
es N
atio
nal
La
kesh
ore
bo
un
dar
y ex
ten
ds
100
yard
s in
to L
ake
Mic
hig
an
and
Nat
ion
al P
ark
Serv
ice
reg
ula
tio
ns
app
ly.
9. P
inh
oo
k B
og
A m
at o
f sph
agnu
m m
oss
keep
s ev
eryt
hing
from
tree
s to
in
sect
-eat
ing
plan
ts fl
oatin
g ab
ove
an a
ncie
nt, a
nd
now
-hid
den,
lake
. Thi
s ex
trem
ely
rare
and
frag
ile
habi
tat c
an o
nly
be e
nter
ed
duri
ng ra
nger
-led
tour
s.
8. M
ou
nt
Bal
dy
Hikethetrailtothetopofth
ena
tiona
l lak
esho
re’s
larg
est
mov
ing
dune
. Mou
nt B
aldy
, at
126
feet
tall,
pro
vide
s st
unni
ng
view
s of
Lak
e M
ichi
gan
and
its sh
orel
ine.
Do
your
par
t to
pro
tect
the
park
. Sta
y on
de
sign
ated
trai
ls a
nd a
void
w
alki
ng o
n pl
ants
.
6. L
ake
Vie
wA
s th
e na
tiona
l lak
esho
re’s
onl
y pi
cnic
are
a ov
erlo
okin
g L
ake
Mic
higa
n, th
is s
ite o
ffers
cov
ered
pi
cnic
shel
ters
. Bea
utifu
l sun
set
view
s m
ake
this
one
of t
he m
ore
popu
lar
park
ing
spot
s.
7. D
un
ewo
od
Cam
pg
rou
nd
Dun
ewoo
d is
just
ove
r on
e-m
ile
sout
h of
Lak
e M
ichi
gan
and
feat
ures
79
woo
ded
cam
psite
s.
Enjoy
cam
ping
with
the
conv
enie
nce
of a
cces
s to
re
stro
oms
and
show
ers.
Fee
s ar
e ch
arge
d, a
nd re
gist
ratio
n is
on
a fir
st-c
ome,
firs
t-se
rved
bas
is.
The
cam
pgro
und
is o
pen
Apr
il th
roug
h O
ctob
er.
5. L
y-co
-ki-
we
Trai
lD
epen
ding
on
the
seas
on, h
ike,
sk
i, or
rid
e th
e fo
ur-m
ile tr
ail
thro
ugh
woo
ded
dune
s an
d w
etla
nds.
Bri
ng y
our
own
skis
or
hor
se.
3 C
ow
les
Bo
g T
rail
The
nat
iona
l lak
esho
re’s
mos
t ru
gged
hik
e ta
kes
you
on a
five
-mile
jo
urne
y th
roug
h w
etla
nds
and
over
bo
th w
oode
d an
d m
ovin
g du
nes
to
an is
olat
ed b
each
.
2. P
ort
age
Lake
fro
nt
Ope
ned
in 2
008,
Por
tage
Lak
efro
nt
and
Riv
erw
alk
has
park
ing
for
125
cars
, an
acce
ssib
le fi
shin
g pi
er, a
ri
verw
alk
alon
g B
urns
Wat
erw
ay,
a re
habi
litat
ed b
reak
wat
er, v
ario
us
hike
/bik
e tr
ails
, acc
ess
to th
e be
ach,
an
d a
3,50
0 sq
uare
foot
pav
ilion
that
co
ntai
ns a
food
ser
vice
are
a.
4. B
ailly
/Ch
ellb
erg
Exp
lorean18
20sfurtrad
ing
outp
ost a
nd a
190
0-er
a farm
stead.Enjoy
theDun
elan
dHerita
geD
aysdu
ring
thethird
full
wee
kend
of
Sept
embe
r an
d M
aple
Sug
ar
Tim
e in
Mar
ch. F
ollo
w th
e tr
ail t
hat s
tart
s he
re a
nd w
inds
th
roug
h a
wid
e di
vers
ity o
f la
ndsc
apes
, inc
ludi
ng th
e M
noké
Pra
irie
, Litt
le C
alum
et
Riv
er, a
nd a
mat
ure
beec
h/m
aple
woo
dlan
d.
1. W
est
Bea
ch
Wes
t Bea
ch is
a g
reat
de
stin
atio
n, e
ven
whe
n th
e w
eath
er is
too
cold
for
swim
min
g. G
rill
a m
eal a
t the
pi
cnic
shel
ter,
wal
k a
mar
ked
trai
l tra
vers
ing
the
dune
s an
d fo
rest
, lea
rn h
ow p
lant
an
d an
imal
com
mun
ities
are
re
plac
ing
one
anot
her
thro
ugh
time,
or
wat
ch m
igra
ting
wat
erfo
wl a
t Lon
g L
ake
in
autu
mn
and
spri
ng.
1
12
34
57
89
6
2
8
6
7
5
3
49
Wat
er S
afet
y
Lak
e M
ich
igan
wat
ers
can
be
haz
ardo
us. R
ip c
urre
nts
oc
cur
freq
uen
tly
dur
ing
peri
ods
of h
igh
win
d a
nd
w
aves
. Dur
ing
the
win
ter,
sh
elf i
ce fo
rms
alon
g th
e la
kesh
ore
and
is n
ever
saf
e to
wal
k on
. Ch
eck
wit
h
loca
l aut
hor
itie
s ab
out c
ond
itio
ns
and
pot
enti
al
haz
ard
s. N
ote:
Th
ere
are
no
life
guar
ds
at a
ny n
atio
nal
la
kesh
ore
beac
hes
dur
ing
the
fall
, win
ter
and
spr
ing.