The 30 Best Park nature trails in Michigan City, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Park, located in Porter, Indiana, United States, is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction that showcases the beauty of Lake Michigan's influence on the landscape. With 15 miles of Indiana coast, the park features a diverse range of habitats including sand dunes, woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Over 50 miles of trails offer opportunities for exploration and discovery, with striking plant and bird diversity to be found throughout the park's 15,000 acres. One of the highlights of the park is the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival, which celebrates the area's rich biodiversity and bird-watching opportunities along the shores of Lake Michigan. For those looking for a challenge, there are 19 hikes totaling 66 miles to conquer, including the chance to learn about Diana of the Dunes while exploring the rolling landscape at West Beach.

The James P. Covell Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2727 County Road 52 in Auburn, Indiana, United States. This preserve spans 2,700 feet along Cedar Creek's west bank and was generously donated by Dr. Jack Covell to preserve his late brother's land for the local wildlife. The preserve features a variety of habitats, including 40 acres of agricultural land, 33 acres of emerging upland forest, and 23 acres of mature forested floodplain. The property is home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as wild turkeys, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, minks, otters, and more. Some of the trees in the preserve are over 150 years old.

Michigan City Campground is a picturesque retreat located in Michigan City, Indiana, just off U.S. 421. This sprawling campground offers a variety of lodging options, including RV sites and tent camping areas. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, this park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun-filled adventure, Michigan City Campground has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of the great outdoors at this charming campground in Indiana.

Patriot Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 2224 North 950 West in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful and serene environment to relax and enjoy nature. With lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities, Patriot Park is the perfect place for a family outing or a solo escape. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply explore the outdoors, Patriot Park has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the tranquility and beauty of this charming park in Michigan City.

Indiana Dunes State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Chesterton, Indiana. Situated at 1600 North 25 East, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors seeking to explore the beautiful sand dunes, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems of the area. With over 2,000 acres of natural beauty to explore, visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, picnicking, and birdwatching in this scenic park. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventurous hike through the dunes, Indiana Dunes State Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Creek Ridge County Park Disc Golf Course is a premier disc golf destination located in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. Nestled within the scenic Creek Ridge County Park, this 18-hole course offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. With lush greenery, rolling hills, and strategic obstacles, players can test their accuracy and technique while enjoying the beauty of the park. Whether you are a seasoned disc golfer or a beginner looking to try something new, Creek Ridge County Park Disc Golf Course is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with friends and family.

Washington Park is a beautiful lakeside park located in Michigan City, Indiana. Situated right on the shores of Lake Michigan, this park offers stunning views, sandy beaches, and a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From picnicking and sunbathing to swimming and fishing, there is something for everyone to do at Washington Park. The park also features playgrounds, walking trails, and a historic lighthouse, making it a popular destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the natural beauty of the area, Washington Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors.

Creek Ridge County Park is a picturesque and tranquil park located at West 400 North in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Creek Ridge County Park is the perfect destination. With its convenient location and beautiful surroundings, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Washington Park Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beach volleyball in the sandy shores of Washington Park Beach. The beach is also equipped with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a concession stand. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or engage in water activities, Washington Park Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a day by the water.

Charles R. Westcott Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational space located in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This park offers a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and open spaces perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings, play sports, or simply relax and unwind in this tranquil setting. Charles R. Westcott Park is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in a peaceful and scenic environment.

Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located in Michigan City, Indiana. This Indiana state nature preserve is a sanctuary for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare club mosses, colorful mushrooms, salamanders, migratory birds, and hooting owls. With vernal pools, rivulets, and woodland ponds, the preserve comes alive in early spring with a chorus of calling frogs. This unique boreal flatwoods natural community is home to at least 39 state-listed plant species and many others considered rare in the region. Visitors can explore the preserve's trails and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The main parking lot is conveniently located on Meer Road, with additional parking available at the northern trailhead on Freyer Road. Come discover the wonders of Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve and experience the magic of the great outdoors.

Pullman Park is a charming outdoor recreational space located at 550 West 4th Street in Michigan City, Indiana. This well-maintained park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including walking paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, exercise, or spend quality time with family and friends, Pullman Park is the perfect destination. With its beautiful green spaces and convenient location, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind and have fun.

Indiana Dunes National Park Mount Baldy, located at 187 Rice Street in Michigan City, Indiana, is a beautiful park offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can purchase entrance passes for individual vehicles, families, or organized groups to explore the park for up to 7 days. Special passes are available for seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. The park is home to Mount Baldy, a popular sand dune with a parking lot located at 101 Rice Street. Visitors are advised to be cautious of rip currents on Lake Michigan and to follow safety guidelines when swimming. The "Flip, Float, and Follow" campaign by Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project provides important drowning survival techniques for those caught in dangerous currents.

Indiana Dunes National Park Heron Rookery is a breathtaking natural wonder located at 1336 600 East in Michigan City, Indiana. This park is a must-see tourist attraction for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. The Heron Rookery is home to a diverse array of bird species, including majestic herons that can be observed nesting and fishing in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along scenic trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding dunes and Lake Michigan. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a chance to connect with nature, Indiana Dunes National Park Heron Rookery is the perfect destination for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Indiana Dunes National Park Lakeview offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dunes in Michigan City, Indiana. This park is a natural oasis where visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and relaxing by the water. The park is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, Indiana Dunes National Park Lakeview has something for everyone.

Indiana Dunes National Park Porter Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in Porter, Indiana, United States. This beautiful beach within the national park offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Michigan. With its sandy shores, clear waters, and scenic dunes, Porter Beach is the perfect destination for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Visitors can also explore the surrounding parkland and hiking trails, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day by the water, Indiana Dunes National Park Porter Beach has something for everyone.

Heinzerling Family Five Points Nature Preserve, managed by ACRES Land Trust, is a beautiful park located at 6800 County Road 7A in Garrett, Indiana, United States. The preserve features the scenic Black Creek, which meanders through vibrant wetlands, agriculture acreage, an oxbow stream, and a small forested wetland system. Visitors can enjoy a stunning display of fall foliage and a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, including Dutchman’s breeches, wild geranium, bloodroot, and trillium. The preserve also holds historical significance, with remnants of an interurban rail line and the former Five Points School on the property. The land was originally purchased by Carl Heinzerling in the 1920s, a co-founder of the Creek Chub Bait Co. His grandchildren have worked to protect this land for future generations.

The Indiana Dunes National Park Sign is a must-see tourist attraction located in Porter, Indiana, United States. This iconic sign welcomes visitors to the stunning Indiana Dunes National Park, a beautiful and diverse natural area along the shores of Lake Michigan. The sign serves as a symbol of the park's unique landscapes, including towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can snap photos with the sign as a memento of their visit to this incredible destination.

Jeorse Park Beach is a stunning waterfront park located at 3301 Aldis Avenue in East Chicago, Indiana, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a picturesque sandy beach along the shores of Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful views. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, Jeorse Park Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind by the water.

Seven Pillars Nature Preserve, located at 3985 Mississinewa Road in Peru, Indiana, is a park managed by the ACRES Land Trust. The preserve is named after the iconic limestone pillars on the north side of the Mississinewa River, which have been shaped by centuries of erosion. Visitors can enjoy spotting bald eagles fishing along the river banks in late winter and early spring, as well as exploring the forest filled with spring wildflowers such as spring beauty, Dutchman’s breeches, and squirrel corn. The land is sacred to the Miami people, and the Miami Nation of Indians of the State of Indiana still gather at the site today. ACRES Land Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural and working lands in northeast Indiana, southern Michigan, and northwest Ohio. With the support of over 2,000 members, ACRES is able to preserve these areas and provide free public access to their trail systems, which are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Indiana Dunes National Park Headquarters is a local government office and tourist attraction located at 1100 North Mineral Springs Road in Chesterton, Indiana, United States. The headquarters serves as the central hub for information and resources related to the national park, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and diverse ecosystems including dunes, wetlands, and forests. Visitors can access information about hiking trails, wildlife viewing, camping options, and more at the headquarters. The national park's Dunewood Campground is currently open for the season, but visitors are reminded to take necessary precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including practicing social distancing. Restrooms and showers are also open for visitor use.

The Indiana Dunes National Park Cowles Bog Trailhead is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 1618 North Mineral Springs Road, Dune Acres, Indiana, United States. This park features the Cowles Bog Trail, which was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1965 due to its outstanding plant diversity. Dr. Henry Cowles conducted much of his early work in plant ecology and succession in this area in the early 1900s, making it an important focus for scientific study even today. The 4.7-mile trail takes you through various habitats including ponds, marshes, swamps, black oak savannas, and beaches. The trail can be strenuous due to steep sand dunes near Lake Michigan, but the sweeping views of the lake make it worth the effort. Visitors often pack a lunch to enjoy at the shoreline before heading back. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and extra clothing layers as the weather at the lake can be different than at the parking lot.

The Indiana Dunes State Park Campground Showers and Bathrooms offers clean and modern facilities for campers and visitors to freshen up during their stay at the park. Located at 1600 North 25 East in Chesterton, Indiana, this campground provides convenient access to the beautiful natural surroundings of the Indiana Dunes State Park. Whether you are pitching a tent, RV camping, or staying in a cabin, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of well-maintained showers and bathrooms. Take advantage of these amenities to relax and recharge after a day of exploring the park's hiking trails, sandy beaches, and stunning Lake Michigan views.

Shirley Heinze Land Trust St. Francis Nature Preserve is a 39-acre wetland forest located at 3500 Franciscan Way in Michigan City, Indiana. This park features a 1/4-mile boardwalk trail lined with oak and maple trees, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic outdoor experience. In partnership with Franciscan Health Michigan City, the nature preserve provides a unique opportunity for healing and relaxation in nature. Visitors can learn about the history of St. Francis, the “Patron Saint of Ecology,” and the health benefits of spending time outdoors through informative signs along the trail.

Lambert Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located at 537 Michigan Street in Clayton, Indiana, United States. This park offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and beautiful picnic areas, Lambert Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind with family and friends. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, Lambert Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Indiana Dunes National Park Tolleston Dunes is a beautiful park located in Ogden Dunes, Indiana, United States. This institution is a part of the larger Indiana Dunes National Park and is known for its stunning sand dunes that provide a unique and picturesque landscape for visitors to explore. With miles of hiking trails, opportunities for birdwatching, and access to Lake Michigan, Tolleston Dunes is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, take a leisurely stroll through the dunes, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Indiana Dunes National Park Tolleston Dunes is the perfect place to visit.

Asherwood Nature Preserve, managed by ACRES Land Trust, is a beautiful park located in Wabash, Indiana. The preserve features a variety of trails that wind through wooded areas, deep ravines, wetlands, and ponds. Visitors can explore paved trails, wide flat earthen trails, and narrow winding trails that climb steep grades. In the spring, the ground is covered with vibrant wildflowers such as Mayapple, wild geranium, blue-eyed Mary, and Dutchman’s breeches. One of the highlights of Asherwood is the dense stand of towering sugar maples known as a “sugar bush.” During February, visitors may see old-fashioned metal buckets hanging on trees collecting sap, which is then boiled down in the property’s historic sugar shack to make fresh maple syrup at the end of winter.

Welcome to Whihala County Whiting Park, a beautiful oasis located at 1102 Lake Avenue in Whiting, Indiana. Perfectly nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, our park offers a serene escape for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, a fun-filled picnic, or a day of adventure, Whihala County Whiting Park provides an ideal setting for all your outdoor activities. Our park features expansive green spaces, well-maintained walking trails, and breathtaking views of the lake, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Families can take advantage of our playgrounds and picnic areas, while nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that call our park home.

Welcome to Hammond Lakefront Park and Bird Sanctuary, a serene oasis nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan at 701 Casino Center Drive, Hammond, Indiana. This picturesque park offers a perfect escape into nature, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, tranquil walking trails, and a diverse array of bird species. Ideal for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and families alike, our sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to connect with the environment and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax by the water, Hammond Lakefront Park and Bird Sanctuary offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us and experience the natural beauty and tranquility that our park has to offer.

Welcome to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Schererville, Indiana. Located at 135 East Main Street, this remarkable preserve is one of the few remaining grasslands in the Midwest, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's natural heritage. Dedicated as both a State Nature Preserve and a National Natural Landmark in 1977, Hoosier Prairie is a sanctuary of ecological diversity amidst the industrial backdrop of Northwest Indiana. Spanning a rich tapestry of rolling topography and sandy soils, the preserve is home to more than 350 native plant species, including 43 that are uncommon or rarely seen in Indiana, such as the striking wild white indigo. This vibrant ecosystem supports a variety of habitats, from dry black oak barrens to wetland pools and wet prairies, all carefully conserved to maintain their natural beauty and ecological importance.