Dog beach · Porter, IN

Dogs at Indiana Dunes National Park

Can I bring my dog, and where on the sand?
Limited access

Mostly, leashed dogs are welcome on nearly all park beaches year-round, with one seasonal exception.

Leashed dogs (6-ft max leash) allowed on Kemil, Dunbar, Lake View, and Central beaches, and most of the shoreline.

Where dogs can go

Leashed dogs (6-ft max leash) allowed on Kemil, Dunbar, Lake View, and Central beaches, and most of the shoreline.

Where or when dogs are not allowed

West Beach's lifeguarded swimming area, from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Leash and beach rules

Leash required even while swimming; pack out waste; dogs barred from the Pinhook Bog Trail.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Porter, IN
View the official beach rules →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Indiana Dunes National Park?

Mostly, leashed dogs are welcome on nearly all park beaches year-round, with one seasonal exception. Leashed dogs (6-ft max leash) allowed on Kemil, Dunbar, Lake View, and Central beaches, and most of the shoreline.

What is the dog rule at Indiana Dunes National Park?

Leash required even while swimming; pack out waste; dogs barred from the Pinhook Bog Trail.

When are dogs not allowed at Indiana Dunes National Park?

West Beach's lifeguarded swimming area, from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Are service animals allowed at Indiana Dunes National Park?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.