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Indiana Dunes National Lakeshoreoffice building with sign, Headquarters
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Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Cowles Bog
Park Facility Trail Map Latitude Longitude Street Address
Cowles Bog Cowles Bog Trail  041.38.55N 087.05.08W N. Mineral Springs Road, Chesterton 46304

Visitor Activities:

  • Bird along the dike and trail
  • Walk up a steep dune on a designated trail
  • Hike two miles to the beach
  • Anchor your boat near the shore and picnic on the beach

Facilities:

  • Area open, 7 a.m. to dusk, daily
  • Parking for cars in a north lot near the Ogden Dunes guard shack, and a south lot by Mineral Springs Road & Highway 12
  • Porta-potty
  • Information board listing current park activities

Fun Facts:

  • This is where Henry Cowles conducted his historical plant studies.

  • Excellent site for birding

Driving Directions:

  1. Starting at I-94 and Indiana 49, go north about 3 miles to U.S. Highway 12. 
  2. Take the U.S. Highway 12 exit (exit is on left).
  3. Turn left onto U.S. Highway 12 / Dunes Highway.
  4. Take U.S. Highway 12 two miles until you reach Mineral Springs Road.
  5. Turn right onto Mineral Springs Road; Cowles Bog parking area will be on your left (west).

 

 
Map with directions highlighted to help direct visitors to Cowles Bog.
two horses pulling a machine use to rake hay with a farmer riding on the rake  

Did You Know?
In 1972, Chellberg Farm became part of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. In the mid-1800s many Swedes settled in Porter County. Three generations of Chellbergs farmed this land.

Last Updated: November 28, 2007 at 15:24 EST