May
1
to May 31

(NP) Volunteer Opportunity: Trash Trekkers 

Visitor Center: 9:00 am–4:00 pm, Daily

Douglas Center: 9:00 am–4:00 pm, Daily

Lend a hand in our drop-in litter cleanup program. Simply check in at the Visitor Center to receive trash bags, then choose from one of our many beach areas or hiking trails to collect trash. Participants can earn a free, reusable water bottle for filling up their bags. Please leave trash at a trash can on the site you hiked.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

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May
14
to May 18

Indiana Dunes Birding Festival

Over 180 activities and programs spread across this 5-Day event. Program start times vary!

Birding in the Indiana Dunes is the best the state has to offer. With its rich biodiversity, varying habitats and miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the Indiana Dunes is a hotspot for migrant birds. Come and appreciate this abundance of migratory birds in the Indiana Dunes as the festival offers countless walks, hikes, talks, and programs put on by the Indiana Audubon Society. These programs have a fee and must be registered for in advance.

For more information and how to register for programs, please visit www.indunesbirdingfestival.com.

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes are one of the many sponsors and supporters of this annual region-wide event. Look for us at our booth in the Migration Marketplace

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May
16
7:30 PM19:30

(NP) Music Heritage Series Concert

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of music and melody with The Save the Tunes Council, a dedicated collective of local musicians, passionate about keeping folk songs alive with an array of traditional instruments. Don’t miss this chance to experience the rich sounds and stories of our musical heritage! Meet at Indiana Dunes National Park Visitor Center.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many performances by Save the Tunes Council are supported by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
17
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Project 1966: Hike Every Trail in the Park - Pinhook Bog

Meet at the Pinhook Bog Parking Lot Trailhead!

Hike all of the trails in the national park. The challenge will take place over the course of the summer with each week featuring a new trail. There will be a total of 19 hikes covering 66 miles to honor the year the park was established. Can’t make all of the guided hikes? Look on our website for a link to Project 1966.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
17
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
17
9:00 AM09:00

(SP) Youth & Family Birding Day

This is a fun-filled day with something for everyone! As a part of the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival there will be beginning bird hikes starting every hour on the hour at the Nature Center. You will not want to miss the bird games, bluebird house building, photo ID quiz giveaways and more! Thank you to all our partner organizations for making this day happen.

All activities are free and a part of the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival. www.indunesbirdingfestival.com

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana.

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly sponsors this family fun-filled day.

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May
17
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
17
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
18
8:00 AM08:00

(SP) Breakfast with the Birds

Start your morning off with an assortment of birds who visit our Nature Center’s bird feeders as a part of the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival. Visitors are welcome to join the naturalists to learn how to better identify these species while sipping coffee and eating donuts.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly supply all bird feed and seed, feeders, guidebooks, the water feature and the audio amplification associated with the wildlife observation room.

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May
18
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
24
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Project 1966: Hike Every Trail in the Park - Miller Woods

Meet at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education Parking Lot

Hike all of the trails in the national park. The challenge will take place over the course of the summer with each week featuring a new trail. There will be a total of 19 hikes covering 66 miles to honor the year the park was established. Can’t make all of the guided hikes? Look on our website for a link to Project 1966.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
24
10:00 AM10:00

(SP) Beach Mysteries Hike

Meet the naturalist at the Nature Center for this fun moderate 2-mile trek along Trail 7 to the beach and back. Along the way you will discover the natural and cultural significance of mysteries that wash ashore.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

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May
24
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
24
3:00 PM15:00

(SP) Snakes of the Dunes

Slide on into the Nature Center Auditorium to see some of our snakes p-close and learn more about these often-misunderstood creatures.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana.

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes support all nutritional and health needs of the ambassador wildlife at the Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center.

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May
25
8:00 AM08:00

State Park Beach Clean-up

Four times every summer, on the last Sunday of May - August, FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner with our friends Crazy Legs Race Series from (8:00am – 10:00am) for a Beach Clean-up at the Indiana Dunes State Park.

We welcome all groups, families, and individuals to join us. Drinking Water and limited Gloves and Trash Buckets will be provided. Look for us at the FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes canopy located east of the Pavilion. Beach cleaners will head east towards Michigan City for one hour then return.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: we are also scheduled on the following Sundays - June 29, July 27 and August 31 from 8:00am - 10:00am.

This wonderful partnership is one of the many ways FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner and work with our communities and other eco-friendly groups to enhance visitor enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes.

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May
25
11:30 AM11:30

(SP) Naturalist Table at the Campground Shelter

Visit the Naturalist at the shelter located near campsite 113! They will have all kinds of neat things to look at and learn about. There will also be a small craft to be made!

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes sponsor the supplies needed for this family fun event.

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May
25
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
25
5:00 PM17:00

(NP) Music Heritage Series at Chellberg Farm

Come out for a night of music and song. The Save the Tunes Council is a group of local musicians devoted to preserving and passing on folk songs using a variety of traditional musical instruments.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many performances by Save the Tunes Council are supported by Friends of Indiana Dunes

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May
31
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Project 1966: Hike Every Trail in the Park - Harbor Belt / Paul H Douglas Trail

Meet at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education Parking Lot.

Hike all of the trails in the national park. The challenge will take place over the course of the summer with each week featuring a new trail. There will be a total of 19 hikes covering 66 miles to honor the year the park was established. Can’t make all of the guided hikes? Look on our website for a link to Project 1966.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
31
10:00 AM10:00

(SP) The 3 Dune Challenge!

Indiana Dunes State Park is proud to say that we have the 3 tallest dunes in the whole of Northwest Indiana! You can experience the fun of hiking up and over these 3 dunes and earn a really cool sticker by accomplishing the challenge! Take Trail 8 up and over the 3 dunes and stop at the Nature Center afterward to pick up your sticker. You can do it!

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes are proud to continue to finance the evolution of the Three Dunes Challenge.

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May
31
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
31
2:00 PM14:00

(SP) Earn Your Explore Pin!

Looking for something your family can complete in one weekend or even a single day? Then the Explore Pin is for you! Complete just five requirements at our park and each participant are eligible to purchase a unique Indiana Dunes State Park pin! Stop in the Nature Center for more information.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

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Jun
1
10:00 AM10:00

(SP) Centennial Hike

It’s a brand-new challenge here at Indiana Dunes State Park! In honor of our 100th birthday, we are offering a history hike challenge. You can earn a sticker for taking a photo of each location in the park that has great historical significance. A naturalist will guide you to some of these locations on today’s walk. For more details about the Centennial Challenge, ask at the Nature Center desk.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

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Jun
21
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves -work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Jun
29
8:00 AM08:00

State Park Beach Clean-up

Four times every summer, on the last Sunday of May - August, FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner with our friends Crazy Legs Race Series from (8:00am – 10:00am) for a Beach Clean-up at the Indiana Dunes State Park. This weekend marks our 2nd one for this summer season.

We welcome all groups, families, and individuals to join us. Drinking Water and limited Gloves and Trash Buckets will be provided. Look for us at the FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes canopy located east of the Pavilion. Beach cleaners will head east towards Michigan City for one hour then return.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: we are also scheduled on the following Sundays - July 27 and August 31 from 8:00am - 10:00am.

This wonderful partnership is one of the many ways FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner and work with our communities and other eco-friendly groups to enhance visitor enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes.

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Jul
12
7:00 AM07:00

(SP) 28th Annual Sand Sculpture Contest

Watch the sand come alive at this year’s 28th anniversary event!  The theme is “Happy Birthday Indiana Dunes State Park!.” That's right, we are 100 years old in 2025!

Registration table opens on the west side of the Beach Pavilion by 9:00 a.m., but groups may begin as early as 7:00 a.m.  Judging starts after noon with awards at 1:00 p.m. Whether building or not, come vote for your favorite in the “People’s Choice Award” between Noon and 1:00 p.m.  Park volunteers will be judging sculptures for the funniest, most creative, and most thematic awards. Registration is not required for this program.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly sponsor and supply the prizes awarded for this annual family friendly event.

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Jul
19
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Jul
27
8:00 AM08:00

State Park Beach Clean-up

Four times every summer, on the last Sunday of May - August, FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner with our friends Crazy Legs Race Series from (8:00am – 10:00am) for a Beach Clean-up at the Indiana Dunes State Park. This weekend marks our 3rd one for this summer season.

We welcome all groups, families, and individuals to join us. Drinking Water and limited Gloves and Trash Buckets will be provided. Look for us at the FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes canopy located east of the Pavilion. Beach cleaners will head east towards Michigan City for one hour then return.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: our 4th and last one for the 2025 season is Sunday - August 31 from 8:00am - 10:00am.

This wonderful partnership is one of the many ways FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner and work with our communities and other eco-friendly groups to enhance visitor enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes.

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Aug
16
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Aug
31
8:00 AM08:00

State Park Beach Clean-up

Four times every summer, on the last Sunday of May - August, FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner with our friends Crazy Legs Race Series from (8:00am – 10:00am) for a Beach Clean-up at the Indiana Dunes State Park. This weekend marks our 4th and last one for this summer season.

We welcome all groups, families, and individuals to join us. Drinking Water and limited Gloves and Trash Buckets will be provided. Look for us at the FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes canopy located east of the Pavilion. Beach cleaners will head east towards Michigan City for one hour then return.

This wonderful partnership is one of the many ways FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes partner and work with our communities and other eco-friendly groups to enhance visitor enjoyment of the Indiana Dunes.

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Sep
20
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Oct
5
7:00 PM19:00

(SP) Full Moon Hike

Enjoy the beautiful full moon and night sky on this special event hike from the Nature Center to Lake Michigan and back.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly supply most of the dark sky safety equipment used during Full Moon and other Night Hikes.

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Oct
17
to Oct 18

(SP) 36th Annual NW Indiana Storytelling Festival

All programs are outdoors unless inclement weather:

Friday, October 17th 7:00pm-8:00pm: “Campfire Stories & Sweet Treats” Northwest Indiana Storytellers celebrate their 35th annual event! Come and join us for fun stories at the campground shelter next to site #116. Parking is available at the Nature Center or Campground Gate overflow parking lots.

Treats at the campfire are provided by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

Saturday, October 18th 10:30am to Noon: “Stories for Children” Just outside the Nature Center, around the fire ring, stories for all ages will come to life with the help of a variety of props, thingamajigs, or puppets to enthrall the listener.

1:00pm to 2:30pm: “Storytellers Favorites” Come to the Nature Center’s Outdoor Fire Ring to hear the stories that each storyteller loves to tell over and over.

2:30pm-3:30pm: “Stories from Around the World & Open Mic” Join us at the Nature Center’s Fire Ring where stories will be shared from around the world. Then the floor will be open to anyone wanting to share their favorite story, poem or song.

5:30pm-8:00pm: “Ghost Stories!” A night of fright awaits you in this open-air concert at the Nature Center’s Fire Ring for the 32nd year in a row! Bring a blanket, lawn chair and a friend to hold on to as this program will feature a collection of spooky tales. Two special story sessions will take place.

5:30pm - 6:30pm: Children age 7 and under are encouraged to listen to the tales.

7:00pm - 8:00pm: Stories for ages 8 and up.

Apple cider & cookies provided by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Oct
18
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Nov
15
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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Dec
5
6:00 PM18:00

(SP) Full Moon Hike

Enjoy the beautiful full moon and night sky on this special event hike from the Nature Center to Lake Michigan and back.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly supply most of the dark sky safety equipment used during Full Moon and other Night Hikes.

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Dec
20
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Drop-in Volunteering: Chellberg Farm Care

Work with a ranger and fellow volunteers to help care for the park’s historic farm. Dress comfortably and get ready to roll up your sleeves - work gloves and equipment will be provided. Meet at Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm parking lot.

For more information, please call: (219) 221-7098 or go to indu_volunteer@nps.gov.

Many of the supplies and materials need for this volunteer opportunity are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
11
8:00 PM20:00

(SP) Full Moon Hike

Experience the stunning full moon and starry night on this unique hike from the Nature Center to Lake Michigan and back. Along the journey, we'll share fascinating facts about the moon and share some constellation stories.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes proudly supply most of the dark sky safety equipment used during Full Moon and other Night Hikes.

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May
11
1:00 PM13:00

(SP) Crafts with Mom

Make a special gift for your mom or enjoy crafting together! Stop in the Nature Center Auditorium any time during these hours to design a nature inspired craft for mom!

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes sponsor the supplies needed for this family fun event.

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May
11
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
11
9:00 AM09:00

(NP) Mother’s Day Wildflower Hike

Join a ranger at the Heron Rookery for a hike to see what spring woodland flowers are blooming. The Rookery is perhaps the best location in the region to see spring wildflowers.

Repeated this afternoon from 1:00pm - 3:00pm

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

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May
10
2:00 PM14:00

(SP) Amazing Amphibians

Hop on over to the Nature Center auditorium to learn the identification and adaptations of our dune’s frogs and salamanders.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana.

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes support all nutritional and health needs of the ambassador wildlife at the Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center.

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May
10
2:00 PM14:00

(NP) Dog Mom Day

Celebrate being a pupper parent by spending the afternoon hiking through the black oak forest of Tolleston Dunes with other park loving doggos and their people. Learn about the rules of BARK and help your four-legged friend become a BARK ranger. Be prepared to pick-up and carry out your pet’s waste and have your dog on a leash no more than 6-feet in length.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes are proud to financially sponsor the B.A.R.K. Ranger program.

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May
10
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
10
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) Art in the National Park 

Learn how to paint your own dunes-inspired painting with local artist from the Art Barn (www.artbarnschool.org). Meet at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education. Reservations are required and can be made at www.recreation.gov. There is a $25 fee for the program.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
10
8:30 AM08:30

(NP) Rail Rangers South Shore Train Program

Join the Midwest Rail Rangers on the South Shore Line and learn about the sights outside the window, including the south side of Chicago, the historic steel-making area of Northwest Indiana, and the Indiana Dunes National Park.

East Bound, Train # 503: Millennium Station, Chicago to South Bend Station (8:30 am–11:38 am)

West Bound, train # 506: South Bend Station to Millennium Station, Chicago (1:14 pm–2:27 pm)

The program is provided at no additional cost to passengers, however those riding must purchase a valid train ticket. Passengers can hop on, or off, at various locations along the route. Train schedules may change, check mysouthshoreline.com for updates.

For more information visit railrangers.org and select "Upcoming Programs."

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May
10
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Project 1966: Hike Every Trail in the Park - Great Marsh Trail

Meet at the Great Marsh Parking Lot Trailhead!

Hike all of the trails in the national park. The challenge will take place over the course of the summer with each week featuring a new trail. There will be a total of 19 hikes covering 66 miles to honor the year the park was established. Can’t make all of the guided hikes? Look on our website for a link to Project 1966.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
9
8:00 PM20:00

(SP) Woodcock Wander

Meet a naturalist at the Bird Observation Tower by Trail 3 and West Lot parking lot, as we quietly head out together in search of these beautifully camouflaged, plump little shorebirds often called woodcocks, or timberdoodles. Hike is moderate and just over 1-mile long.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana

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May
4
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
4
10:00 AM10:00

(SP) Turtle Time

Turtles have so many adaptations for surviving in their habitats. Come to the Nature Center’s auditorium to meet our ambassador turtles. You will even learn which turtles from this area are endangered!

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana.

FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes support all nutritional and health needs of the ambassador wildlife at the Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center.

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May
3
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

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May
3
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Logs to Lustrons Architectural Tour (Indiana Landmarks)

From rustic landmarks to Mid-Century Modern, experience a century of architecture at Indiana Dunes National Park (IDNP) on our May 3 Logs to Lustrons tour, including log structures of early settlement days, frame homes from the Victorian period, and mid-century homes of glass, stucco, and metal. Indiana Landmarks and IDNP partner to present the annual tour, which features an inside look at sites not normally open to the public.

On a 3.5-hour guided tour, participants will travel by shuttle while park rangers provide overviews of 11 historic sites, including four landmarks open for interior viewing and a stop at the Beverly Shores Depot Museum, where attendees can view a brick-making demonstration and test their building skills in our Lincoln Log contest (open to all ages).

Choose your timed entry ticket with tour departure times ranging from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Central Time. Tour groups will stay with the same shuttle and tour guide the entire length of the experience, departing promptly from the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at your reserved ticket start time.

In addition to your ranger-led bus tour, stop by the park’s Chellberg Farm (open to tour attendees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. CDT) for a self-guided look at the 1885 farmhouse and outbuildings.

Children can earn a Junior Ranger badge by picking up a workbook, program, and a bag with a sketchbook and pencil at the Visitor Center before starting the tour, participating in hands-on activities offered at select tour sites, and showing the completed workbook to a park ranger by tour’s end.

TICKETS
Tickets cost $30/general public, $25/Indiana Landmarks member, and are free to children or youth under age 16 with RSVP.
Purchase at https://www.indianalandmarks.org/.../logs-to-lustrons.../ or by calling Indiana Landmarks at 317-639-4534 or 800-450-4534.

ACCESSIBILITY
Not all tour sites and tour shuttles are accessible. Some sites require walking and navigating stairs. If you require accommodation, please let us know in advance by calling Indiana Landmarks, 574-232-4534.

NOTE ON PARK FEES
Entrance fees to Indiana Dunes National Park are waived for ticketholders for the length of the tour. If you decide to recreate in the national park outside of your tour time, the entrance fee will be required.

LOGS TO LUSTRONS T-SHIRTS
Commemorative Logs to Lustrons t-shirts are available for pre-order as part of your ticket purchase through April 3. Tourgoers may pick up their orders when checking in for the tour at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. Additional t-shirts will be available for purchase on-site, while supplies last.

Many FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes members will be volunteering at this event. Look for us and say hello!

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May
3
8:00 AM08:00

(NP) Project 1966: Hike Every Trail in the Park - Chellberg Farm

Meet at the Bailly Homestead / Chellberg Farm Parking Lot

Hike all of the trails in the national park. The challenge will take place over the course of the summer with each week featuring a new trail. There will be a total of 19 hikes covering 66 miles to honor the year the park was established. Can’t make all of the guided hikes? Look on our website for a link to Project 1966.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

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May
3
8:00 AM08:00

(SP) Spring Migration Bird Walk (Dunes-Calumet Audubon)

Join Dunes-Calumet Audubon Society for a peak Spring Migration bird walk at the Indiana Dunes State Park! The group will leave from the Wilson Shelter lot at 8:00 am and head out on Trail 2 and out onto the longest boardwalk in the park. We will return to Wilson’s Shelter on Trail 10. The walk is 3 miles long on mostly flat terrain and will last until the early afternoon. Be prepared for muddy sections of trail and the possibility of mosquitoes. Trail 2 has some of the best migration birding in Indiana Dunes State Park for warblers and other spring migrants. Let's go and find them!

This walk is free and open to the public, but registration is required as capacity is limited. To make your reservation click “here”.

For more information, call the State Park Nature Center at: 219-926-1390, Check out their FaceBook Page, OR go to: Indiana Dunes State Park - State of Indiana.

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May
2
7:00 PM19:00

(NP) Swedish Heritage in Indiana's Calumet Region (Indiana Landmarks)

Learn about the rich history of northwest Indiana’s Swedish immigrants, still visible today in the farmhouses, barns, and other structures they built beginning in the late nineteenth century. On May 2, Indiana Landmarks and Indiana Dunes National Park host Jack Rogalla and Sarah Hawkinson of Chicago’s Swedish American Museum for an illustrated talk at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center exploring Swedish heritage and architecture within the park and throughout the Calumet Region.

TICKETS
Tickets cost $15/general public, $10/Indiana Landmarks members, and are free to children and youth ages 16 and under with RSVP. The talk begins at 7 p.m. CDT with a brief history of Indiana Dunes National Park. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. CDT with appetizers and refreshments available. Time for audience Q&A follows the presentation. Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, Indiana 46034) is accessible to all.

Purchase tickets online at https://www.indianalandmarks.org/.../swedish-heritage-in.../ or by calling Indiana Landmarks at 317-639-4534 or 800-450-4534. Advance ticket encouraged. Space will be limited.

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Apr
27
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) Woodland Wildflower Hike

Join a ranger to explore the Little Calumet River flood plain and its great diversity of spring wildflowers. You will be listening to the spring songs of birds and frogs. Meet in the Heron Rookery east parking lot. Be prepared for muddy conditions.

For more information contact Indiana Dunes National Park at www.nps.gov/indu or call (219) 395-1882

The Heron Rookery Trail is one of the best trails in all of Duneland for Woodland Spring Ephemerals, some species of which can be purchased at the upcoming 29th Annual FRIENDS of Indiana Dunes Native Plant Sale.

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Apr
27
1:00 PM13:00

(NP) - Chellberg Farm Open House

Stop by the historic Chellberg Farm to tour the farmhouse and visit the animals. Rangers and volunteers will be on site to share the area’s history.

For more information, please call Indiana Dunes National Park at (219) 395-1882, check out their FaceBook page, or go to www.nps.gov/indu

Many of the supplies and materials needed for this program are made available by Friends of Indiana Dunes.

View Event →