Indiana Dunes National Park: 2 Day Camping Trip from Chicago

Standing barefoot on Kemil Beach as the sun dipped below the horizon, I watched the sky explode into shades of pink and orange, the colors reflecting off the calm waves. A soft breeze carried the scent of the lake, and the sand was still warm beneath my feet. The quiet hum of the water and the fading chatter of distant beachgoers made the moment feel like the perfect exhale after a day of adventure.

@camillalxy, Your AAdventure Guide

Essential Information

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Paul H. Douglas Trail -> Dunes Succession Trail -> 3 Dune Challenge

Start your Indiana Dunes adventure with a quick 1-hour drive from Chicago to Dunewood Campground. Warm up on the 3.4-mile Paul H. Douglas Trail through wetlands and oak savannas, then tackle the scenic Dunes Succession Trail with views of Lake Michigan. After lunch, take on the intense 3 Dune Challenge for panoramic dune views. Unwind with beach time at Indiana Dunes State Park before a relaxed camp dinner and a stunning sunset at Kemil Beach.

Day 2 - Century of Progress Homes -> Great Marsh Trail -> Cowles Bog Trail

After packing up, check out the restored 1933 World's Fair Homes along the lakeshore. Birdwatch on the peaceful Great Marsh Trail before hiking the more challenging 4.7-mile Cowles Bog Trail through swamps and sand dunes. Stop at the Longshore Birding Platform for lake views, then visit the historic Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm. Finish with a swim or relaxing beach time before heading back to Chicago. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us to be featured on Voyagers' social media. We'd love to hear your stories!

This Trip Is Best For

Weekend warriors: “I'm looking for a quick nature escape near Chicago.”

First-time visitors: "I've never been to Indiana Dunes and want to see all the highlights."

Outdoor adventurers: "I prioritize unique outdoor experiences over food and lodging conditions."

Easygoing hikers: "I appreciate a mix of relaxed schedules with moments of adventure."

Independent explorers: "I enjoy a mix of guided tours and self-guided trips in a small group."

How To Autopilot

1. Pay a deposit to receive the full itinerary and secure your spot if you'd like to join a group.

2. Answer a few questions from us to be matched with compatible group members. 

3. Pay the balance to meet your group and get ready for your self-guided adventure together.

• Once you've met your group, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
  
• Each additional participant you bring gets 10% off the balance for everyone in the same party, until your party size reaches the max group size of the trip.

For just $4 or less, you'll be ready to go with an actionable itinerary AND travel buddies you'll get along with.

That's like HOURS ⏰ of trip planning and HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS 💰 on travel agency SAVED ✅

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