Last updated: September 4, 2026
Thing to Do
Ranger Camp 3-Day Expedition
September 11–13, 2026: The Ranger Camp 3 Day Expedition is a ranger led biking, hiking, and paddling adventure designed for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
Over three days, participants will explore rugged dune landscapes, travel by bike and foot across varied terrain, and complete a guided paddle along the East Branch of the Little Calumet River.
This program requires self-reliance, physical readiness, and comfort with primitive camping.
Registration required: Registration is required and limited to 30 participants. Maximum group registration is limited to eight participants per group. Call 219‑395‑1882 and press 0 or completely fill out and email this form.
Over three days, participants will explore rugged dune landscapes, travel by bike and foot across varied terrain, and complete a guided paddle along the East Branch of the Little Calumet River.
This program requires self-reliance, physical readiness, and comfort with primitive camping.
Registration required: Registration is required and limited to 30 participants. Maximum group registration is limited to eight participants per group. Call 219‑395‑1882 and press 0 or completely fill out and email this form.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Camping
Camping takes place at the Chellberg Overflow Camping Area. Tent camping and RVs are welcome. Conditions are primitive, with no electricity anywhere on site. Community fire rings and park approved grills are available. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Required Passes & Fees
Participants must secure required passes before arrival.
Indiana Dunes National Park pass options:
- Walk In/Bike In 7 Day Pass: $15
- Annual Pass: $45
- Purchase: https://www.recreation.gov
Indiana Dunes State Park: (Funded by the Friends)
- Walk In/Bike In Entrance Fee:
$2 per person(This fee will be graciously funded by the Friends of Indiana Dunes.) - Purchase: https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks
- Participants must show both passes at check in and during ranger led activities.
Parking & Base Camp
- Base Camp is located at the Chellberg Overflow Parking Lot near the Nelson House.
- Coordinates: 41°37'29.74"N, 87°05'12.04"W
- Participants remain parked here for the event duration. Potable water, restrooms, port-a-jons, picnic shelters, and grills are available in the Bailly/Chellberg area. Please see below for further details.
Skill Requirements
Participants should be able to:
- Bike 9–10 miles on mixed terrain
- Hike 7+ miles on rugged, uneven trails
- Kayak in variable river conditions and perform self rescue
- Manage gear and personal needs independently
Activities are optional but designed for experienced adventurers.
Mandatory Gear & Safety Checks
Bike Trek Requirements:
- Helmet
- Working bike lights
- Bike in safe operating condition
- Basic repair supplies
Kayak Requirements:
- USCG approved PFD
- Whistle, dry bag, proper clothing
- Park kayaks available; personal kayaks welcome
Life jackets provided if needed. Rangers and certified paddlers will conduct capability and safety checks at the launch.
Trail, Water & Weather Safety
Expect uneven terrain, mud, stairs, and changing lake or river conditions. Rangers monitor weather and hazard forecasts and may adjust routes or activities. Participants will receive updates by email, text, or ranger announcement. See safety page for more information.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency: 911
- Nearest ER: Franciscan Health Emergency Center
- 770 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN — 219‑921‑2000
- Park Dispatch: 219‑395‑1077
- Law Enforcement Hotline: 1‑800‑727‑5847
Paddle Route & Shuttle
The planned paddle route is Walner Preserve (launch) to Howe Road (take out). Route may change due to surf conditions, river levels, or hazard guidance. Shuttle service will be available for participants and boats. Specific instructions will be provided the evening before paddle day.
Water, Restrooms & Showers
Potable water and restrooms are available at Bailly/Chellberg. Port-a-jons are located on site, as well as at the State Park Pavilion and the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. Showers are available at West Beach, typically 8 AM–10 PM. Participants should bring sufficient personal water for camp and activities.
Food Storage & Cooking
Participants must supply their own meals.
Guidelines:
- Use designated fire rings and grills
- Collection of firewood is only allowed with dead and downed wood.
- Secure all food and scented items (wildlife present)
- Dispose of charcoal and ash properly.
Accessibility
Activities involve strenuous physical effort and primitive camping. No additional accommodations are planned. View only interpretation may be available for companions.
Final Notes
Participants should be prepared for primitive conditions, long physical days, weather shifts, self sufficient gear management, and obtaining all required park passes.
Age(s)
Must be old enough to self-rescue with during rough water currents and bike conditions.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Activity Fee
Yes
Required Passes & Fees
Participants must secure required passes before arrival.
Indiana Dunes National Park pass options:
- Walk In/Bike In 7 Day Pass: $15
- Annual Pass: $45
- Purchase: https://www.recreation.gov
Indiana Dunes State Park: (Funded by the Friends)
- Walk In/Bike In Entrance Fee:
$2 per person(This fee will be graciously funded by the Friends of Indiana Dunes.) - Purchase: https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks
Location
Chellberg Farm Overflow Area
Camping takes place at the Chellberg Overflow Camping Area. Tent camping and RVs are welcome. Conditions are primitive, with no electricity anywhere on site. Community fire rings and park approved grills are available. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Registration required: Registration is required and limited to 30 participants. Maximum group registration is limited to eight participants per group. Call 219‑395‑1882 and press 0 or completely fill out and email this form.
Registration required: Registration is required and limited to 30 participants. Maximum group registration is limited to eight participants per group. Call 219‑395‑1882 and press 0 or completely fill out and email this form.
Reservations
Yes
Accessibility Information
Activities involve strenuous physical effort and primitive camping. No additional accommodations are planned. View only interpretation may be available for companions.