LOVE THE INDIANA DUNES LIKE YOU MEAN IT
The Indiana Dunes is a story of sand and steel. It's a tale of industry and preservation. The movement to protect the Indiana Dunes started back in 1899 and still continues to this day. Each one of us plays a part in protecting the stunning scenery and thousands of acres of adventure-filled wilderness nestled between urban landscapes and flourishing northern Indiana communities.
The natural spaces here are special, so please tread lightly on the land and help keep the water clean. Respect and support surrounding local communities and cultures. Each of us who visit the Indiana Dunes can also help protect natural heritage, biodiversity, and local culture by taking some of the simple steps below.
Sustainable Travel Tips
Fall in Love
The more you know, the more there is to love, so start building your foundation for a long-lasting relationship with the Indiana Dunes by learning more about our natural environment, culture, and history before you arrive. You’ll fall in love with our parks, communities, and the people who make this place so special. Once you're here, pick up a free explorer backpack and see the parks in a whole new way.
Don't Leave Your Good Habits at Home
Consider ways to conserve energy and water. Be prepared to recycle where possible, dispose of your trash properly, and reduce your plastic use whenever you can. When experiencing the outdoors, remember to Leave No Trace.
Forgot your reusable water bottle at home? You can pick up a free Indiana Dunes water bottle when you sign up for the Trash Trekkers program at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center.
Protect Your Natural Surroundings
The Indiana Dunes is a unique ecosystem that needs to be protected for generations to come. As you explore, be mindful of plants, animals, and the sensitive environment. While it’s tempting to carve out your own path, in this fragile ecosystem we ask that you stay on designated trails. Our wildlife is cute but can be unpredictable — avoid feeding the animals and keep a safe distance. Like our friend Smokey Bear says, “Only you can prevent forest fires.” — so strictly follow all fire restrictions.
Be a Jewel, Save on Fuel
These days fuel efficiency doesn’t just help the environment; it positively impacts your bottom line. Thankfully, the Indiana Dunes is perfect for pedal-powered adventures. You can take advantage of accessible bike-friendly train cars and bike routes throughout the area. Enjoy the wide variety of bicycling activities for all different types of riders, no vehicle required.
Give Back While You're Here
Step your vacation up a notch and volunteer to have an immediate and positive impact on the environment—it’s easy and rewarding. We've partnered with local volunteer organizations to offer easy drop-in volunteer opportunities that anyone can do.
Support Locals
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned how important it is to support local businesses. As you spend time in the Indiana Dunes area, the money you spend supports local artisans, farmers, and business owners whose livelihoods depend on patrons like you. You can show your appreciation and support by being kind, exercising patience, following guidelines, and tipping well.
Be a Good Guest
We’re glad that you decided to visit the Indiana Dunes and surrounding communities! You’ll find Indiana Dunes locals to be friendly and welcoming. Getting to know them will be a highlight of your visit but don’t forget to also respect their traditions, privacy, and communities.
Take the Plunge — Commit to Zero Emissions
Follow our lead and read and learn more about your impact. Read A Traveler’s Guide to Low Carbon Travel, published by Purdue University. You’ll discover additional ways to reduce your carbon footprint and learn about purchasing carbon credits to offset your impact on the climate crisis.
A Traveler's Guide to Low Carbon Travel
Profess Your Love for the Indiana Dunes
Once you’ve fallen for the Indiana Dunes, you’ll want your family and friends to experience it as well. Share the innovative ways you helped our communities through sustainable and regenerative tourism practices. Even better, implement them in your community! Here are some ideas to share so everyone visits with care:
Make it Official — Make the Promise
It's one thing to talk about ways to love and protect the Indiana Dunes, but to really commit to the cause, you need to make us a promise. Promise to love and care for the Indiana Dunes like you mean it.
Travel Deeply & Experience More
Learn About Indigenous Culture
More than just a hiking trail, this interactive experience will weave the culture of the Miami and Potawatomi Indigenous Peoples with the natural ecology of the Indiana Dunes.
Be a Trash Trekker
You’re invited to help be a part of preserving and protecting the Indiana Dunes by volunteering during your visit. All you have to do is show up! How’s that for easy?!
