The Indiana dunes have a long and fascinating history of attracting scientists, teachers, and students alike to study and explore its globally rare ecosystems. The process of unlocking the mysteries of the Indiana dunes that began in the late 1800s with Dr. Henry Chandler Cowles continues today. In the spirit of further utilizing the Indiana dunes as an educational tool, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and its partners offer a wide variety of programs and resources.

Thousands of students participate in education programs at the national lakeshore every year. The national lakeshore offers programs at various locations throughout Lake and Porter Counties, such as the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, the Calumet Dune Interpretive Center, the historic areas of Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm, and natural areas and trails throughout the park. It is a wonderful place to bring students for ranger-led programs or for self-guided exploration. Teacher program packets, classroom activities, and other resources are available to make visits more enjoyable or just to learn more about this unique national park site.

Whether you are a classroom teacher planning to schedule your class for a visit to the dunes or a youth group leader searching for activity ideas, the national lakeshore has a variety of web resources available to you.

Learn about 18 different programs offered by national lakeshore staff and how to schedule them by viewing our Educational Adventures in the Dunes brochure or Plan a Field Trip web page.