Dunewood Campground

dunewood campground

For Hoosiers yearning to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw, captivating beauty of Indiana's natural landscape, Dunewood Campground in Beverly Shores, IN, offers an authentic camping experience within the breathtaking Indiana Dunes National Park. Unlike some highly developed campgrounds, Dunewood embraces a more rustic charm, providing a peaceful retreat where the sounds of nature, rather than bustling crowds, define your stay. It's an ideal destination for those who appreciate privacy, direct access to exceptional trails and beaches, and the chance to truly unplug amidst one of Indiana's most iconic natural treasures.

Recent visitors consistently praise the campground's serene atmosphere and thoughtful layout. As one camper remarked, "We really enjoyed this campground! The sites are far away from each other which is so nice! The restrooms were clean and having showers is always a plus!" This emphasis on spaciousness and privacy is a significant draw for many. Another guest noted, "So. Many. Mosquitoes!! But, very nice maintained sites." while also adding, "Our 32 ft camper fit well into site 29 in the Mather loop, though backing up was a little tight due to the dumpster and some fencing. No electricity/water or sewer hookups but we were close to the restrooms. The ranger who checked us in was very friendly and knowledgeable!" These insights are invaluable for setting realistic expectations, highlighting the natural elements—both delightful and challenging—that are part of the Dunewood experience. The consistent commendation for friendly and knowledgeable staff, often volunteers, further enhances the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring campers feel supported even in this more natural setting.

Dunewood Campground is strategically located at 645 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301, USA, placing it directly within the stunning boundaries of Indiana Dunes National Park. This prime location is a major advantage for Indiana residents, offering unparalleled access to one of the state's most celebrated natural wonders. Beverly Shores is a picturesque community nestled along the Lake Michigan shoreline, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and historic architecture.

For Hoosiers, accessing Dunewood Campground is relatively straightforward. It's a manageable drive from major population centers across Indiana, with well-maintained state and national routes leading to the Chesterton/Beverly Shores area. Its proximity to U.S. Highway 12 and the South Shore Line train station in Beverly Shores (a quarter mile north of the campground) means that even visitors from Chicago or South Bend can reach the campground with relative ease, making it highly accessible for both car campers and those relying on public transportation. This immediate adjacency to the National Park's main features—the dunes, Lake Michigan beaches, and extensive trail systems—means campers spend less time traveling and more time exploring. While the campground offers a sense of seclusion, necessary amenities like a gas station and convenience store are conveniently located just a short distance away at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue, ensuring that practical needs are met without sacrificing the wilderness feel.

Dunewood Campground, as part of Indiana Dunes National Park, provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience while emphasizing respect for the natural environment. These services focus on core needs for campers.

• No Hookups (Rustic Camping): It is important for campers to note that Dunewood Campground offers no electric, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites. This signifies a more traditional, rustic camping experience, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water tanks and power sources.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Despite the lack of site-specific hookups, the campground features "clean restrooms" and the added luxury of "showers with hot water." These modern facilities are a significant comfort, especially after a day of hiking or beach activities.
• Potable Water Stations: While not at every site, potable water is available at several locations within each loop, as well as a bottle refill station, allowing campers to fill up their tanks and containers.
• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient RV dump station is available within the campground for waste disposal.
• Knowledgeable and Friendly Volunteer/Ranger Staff: Visitors consistently praise the "wonderful" volunteers and "friendly and knowledgeable" rangers who assist with check-in and provide information, greatly enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash containers are provided for waste disposal, encouraging campers to maintain the cleanliness of the park.
• Campsite Amenities: Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires.

Dunewood Campground within Indiana Dunes National Park stands out for several key features and highlights that draw campers seeking a particular type of outdoor experience. These aspects contribute significantly to its appeal and define what makes it a special destination.

• Exceptional Privacy and Spacing: A top highlight, as noted by campers, is that "the sites are far away from each other which is so nice!" This provides a rare level of seclusion often hard to find in popular campgrounds, allowing for a truly peaceful retreat. The campground is situated in a hardwood forest, further enhancing privacy.
• Direct Access to Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan: While not directly on the beach, the campground is "very close to the beach (3 min drive)" and provides easy access to Lake Michigan's shoreline and the vast network of hiking trails within Indiana Dunes National Park. This includes the famous 3 Dune Challenge and opportunities for beachcombing, swimming, and nature observation.
• Rustic, Authentic Camping Experience: Without electrical or water hookups at individual sites, Dunewood offers a more traditional camping experience that appeals to those who prefer to be more self-reliant and immerse themselves fully in nature.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite the rustic nature of the sites themselves, the communal "restrooms were clean and having showers is always a plus!" This balance of rustic sites with modern, clean facilities is a significant advantage.
• Variety of Site Types: The campground offers 67 campsites, including 54 drive-in sites for tents, trailers, and RVs (some with length limitations) and 13 walk-in primitive sites for tent camping only, catering to diverse preferences. Four sites are wheelchair-accessible.
• Abundant Wildlife (Be Prepared): While a challenge for some, the presence of raccoons, who "were getting within feet of us with absolutely no fear," highlights the rich wildlife in the area. This can be a feature for nature enthusiasts, provided campers are diligent about securing food and trash. Mosquitoes are also a common natural element, requiring preparedness.
• Proximity to Local Amenities and South Shore Line: The campground is a short walk from convenience stores, a gas station, and the Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station, allowing for easy resupply or even car-free access from urban areas like Chicago.

For those planning a memorable and authentic camping experience at Dunewood Campground within Indiana Dunes National Park, here is the essential contact information. As this campground is part of the National Park Service, all inquiries and reservations are handled through the national system.

Address: 645 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301, USA

Phone: (219) 395-1882 (Indiana Dunes National Park main information line)

For reservations, Dunewood Campground sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book your site well in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays), as sites are very popular. You can search for "Dunewood Campground, Indiana Dunes National Park" on Recreation.gov to check availability and make your booking. Given the reviews about wildlife and the rustic nature, direct communication with the park may be helpful for specific questions about current conditions or recommendations.

Dunewood Campground is an excellent and highly suitable destination for locals across Indiana, particularly for those who cherish a true immersion in nature and appreciate a more rustic, less commercialized camping experience. Its location within Indiana Dunes National Park is an undeniable draw for Hoosiers, offering direct and easy access to the unparalleled beauty of Lake Michigan beaches, challenging dune hikes, and a vast network of trails. This proximity means that residents can enjoy one of their state's most unique natural treasures without extensive travel, making it perfect for weekend escapes or longer, rejuvenating vacations.

The campground’s standout features, such as the widely praised spacious and private campsites, provide a tranquil sanctuary often missing in more crowded parks. While it lacks individual site hookups, this encourages a deeper connection with the outdoors, complemented by the convenience of clean, modern restrooms and hot showers. For the Indiana camper who understands and is prepared for wildlife (like raccoons) and natural elements (like mosquitoes), Dunewood offers an authentic experience that truly allows one to unplug and recharge. The positive feedback about the friendly and knowledgeable volunteer staff further enhances the welcoming atmosphere, making it a reliable and cherished spot for Hoosiers seeking a peaceful, natural, and genuinely memorable camping adventure close to home.

Dunewood Campground

645 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301, USA