Caution
Alerts
Indiana Dunes National Park alerts
Current notices from official park sources.
Image credit: ParkwolfCaution
Lake Michigan water-safety alert after recent storms
Avoid entering Lake Michigan after heavy rainfall: the park says E. coli levels are likely to rise above safe swimming standards after recent storms. - Do not enter the water when a health-hazard warning or high-bacteria sign is posted; the park says contaminated water can cause intestinal illness, skin rash, or eye, ear, or respiratory infections. - Stay out of the water when rip-current warnings are posted or large, crashing waves are present; strong currents can carry swimmers away from shore. Check current park conditions and beach-safety guidance before swimming.Official detailsClosure
Storm-damage closures at five park areas
Do not enter the storm-damage closures at Paul H. Douglas, Tolleston Dunes, Hobart Prairie Grove’s Woodland Trail, Pinhook Upland, or Heron Rookery. - Douglas Center (Miller Woods): the lower parking lot and trail system are closed because downed trees block them; the building is open. - Tolleston Dunes Trail: closed while chainsaw crews clear it; reopening is projected in 1–2 weeks. - Hobart Prairie Grove’s Woodland Trail: closed indefinitely with no reopening date; the paved Oak Savannah Trail remains open. - Pinhook Upland Trail: partially open, but the middle boardwalk was lost due to a tree strike, making the full loop inaccessible; there is no replacement timeline. - Heron Rookery Trail: closed for tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse; reopening is expected in the fall, after mosquito activity decreases. Check current park status and updates before traveling.Official detailsClosure
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk trail section closed
A portion of the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway is closed because erosional damage has created unsafe conditions. - The trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. - Pier access remains open on both sides of the closure. - Stay off the closed trail section. Check current park conditions for updates.Official detailsClosure
