Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park is located in the northwestern corner of Indiana, of the United States along the shores of Lakes Michigan. The park covers an area of 23.54 square miles (60.97 sq km).

Originally named the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, the protected area runs 25 miles (40 km) along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The shoreline terrain is comprised of sand dunes, wetlands, prairie, river, and forest ecosystems.

The sand dunes are the pinnacle attraction of the park.  The sand dunes are constantly shifting, and some may reach heights of around 200 feet (60 m). 

It is amazing how much diversity is found in such a small region of the state.  One of the unique facets of the park is the rich unique vegetation that is located amongst the dunes.

There are three creeks and a river that meanders across the park.  The three creeks include Salt Creek, Trail Creek, and Dunes Creek.  The river is called the East Arm Little Calumet River. Each of these terminates into Lake Michigan.

The park has over 1,400 species of vascular plants making it the 8^th most biologically diverse US national park when it comes to vegetation. Some are either threatened or endangered species.

Birds are the most prevalent wildlife species with over 350 different species.  There are 71 species of fish, followed by 41 mammalian species, and 51 species of amphibians and reptiles together. Some of the popular wildlife species include bald eagle, great blue heron, Canada geese, red fox, opossum, raccoon, and white-tailed deer.