Dunbar Group Site
03 reviewsDunbar Group Site
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group camping fee is $100 per night, applicable year-round, with no discounts available for senior or access pass holders. A valid entrance pass or receipt is required for all visitors, which can be purchased upon arrival or in advance. Cancellation policies include a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival.
About this campground
Perched atop a dramatic hillside overlooking Lake Michigan's sparkling waters, Dunbar Group Site rewards adventurous souls who tackle its steep gravel and grass approach with breathtaking vistas and an intimate camping experience. This secluded gem within Indiana Dunes National Park features thoughtfully placed picnic tables and a central fire ring with grill, where groups can gather under starlit skies while the gentle rhythm of waves provides nature's soundtrack below.
The Dunbar Group Site supports tent-only camping and is designed for group use. It is not accessible for RVs or campers.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable landscape holds stories etched in time, with Indiana Dunes National Park proudly protecting four National Natural Landmarks and one National Historical Landmark within its boundaries. These designations recognize not just the area's stunning natural beauty, but also its profound importance to American conservation history and the generations of people who have called these shores home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, comfortable days perfect for beach exploration and evening campfires, while spring and fall wrap the dunes in crisp, invigorating air that transforms the landscape into a photographer's paradise. Peak season delivers reliably pleasant conditions, though early spring and late autumn adventurers should pack layers for those refreshingly cool mornings and evenings that make hot coffee taste even better.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds in every direction from this hillside haven, where windswept dunes give way to ancient oak savannas and mysterious wetlands teem with life. Prairie grasses dance in lake breezes while dense forests provide cool sanctuary, creating an ecological tapestry that shifts with each step along winding trails. This remarkable diversity transforms every hike into a journey through multiple worlds, from sun-drenched sand ridges to shadowy woodland hollows.
Geological RegionSprawling across more than 15,000 acres of northwestern Indiana's most treasured landscapes, Indiana Dunes National Park embraces an astounding variety of ecosystems along 15 miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline. Here, towering sand dunes sculpted by ancient winds stand sentinel over a patchwork of oak savannas, mysterious swamps and bogs, vibrant marshes, sweeping prairies, meandering rivers, and verdant forests – a geological wonderland that tells the story of ice ages past and the powerful forces that continue to shape our world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campsite is not directly vehicle-accessible. Campers must walk up a steep hill to reach the site, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeRoomy enough for up to 30 campers, with space for multiple tents. User reviews describe the site as having space for 5 or 6 picnic tables.
Sites PrivacyThe site is a group camping area, so privacy may be limited as it is designed to accommodate large groups.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPack light and simple since reaching the site requires multiple trips uphill. Camping in cooler seasons can avoid parking challenges.
Best CampsitesDunbar Group Site.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and a total of 14 nights within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 30 people may camp on the site.
Groups
The group site allows up to 30 campers. Parking is limited, and additional vehicles must be parked off-site during peak seasons.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campsite offers a large open mowed area, 5-6 tables, and accessible fire amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens April 1, closes November 2.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee if dates are entirely outside the original reservation. Late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee and a $10 cancellation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Dunbar Group Site offers access to a range of activities typical for Indiana Dunes National Park, including hiking, beach-going, swimming, birding, and seasonal cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Indiana Dunes National Park features 50 miles of trails traversing various ecosystems such as dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. Specific trails near the Dunbar Group Site are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is allowed within the national park, but there are no specific details regarding fishing opportunities near the Dunbar Group Site.Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby Dunbar Beach (0.2 miles from the campsite).Biking
Biking is a supported activity within the park. One user review notes, 'It’s perfect for bicyclists who camp.'Boating
Boating opportunities are available within Indiana Dunes National Park, though details specific to the Dunbar Group Site are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The park’s diverse ecosystems provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, although no specific species or viewing areas near the site are mentioned.Beach activities
The proximity of the campsite to Dunbar Beach (0.2 miles) makes it ideal for beach-related activities such as sunbathing and beachcombing.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive programs and historical site visits, though details about specific programs near the Dunbar Group Site are not available.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options such as cross-country skiing are available in the park, particularly at Glenwood Dunes.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are supported within the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to the designated fire ring; firewood must be brought in.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsThe steep terrain and parking restrictions may pose challenges.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to November 2
Trash and recyclingAll garbage must be packed out by campers. Several dumpsters are available at the Dunewood Campground, but campers are instructed not to leave garbage in the Dunbar Parking Lot garbage can due to its limited capacity.
Proximity to water featuresThe site is 0.2 miles from Dunbar Beach.
Common complaintsRestrictions on parking and accessibility during peak season.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsDunbar Group site is on Dunbar Ave and West Lake Front Drive in Beverly Shores, Indiana.
Access to the site includes a steep hill you must walk up to reach the group camp site, with terrain combining gravel and grass. Parking is limited to vehicles less than 20 feet in length and is further restricted during peak summer days.Nearby places
Beverly Shores (0 miles), Gary (approximately 10 miles), Michigan City (approximately 14 miles)
Nearby supplies
A gas station/convenience store is located 0.25 miles north at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Dunbar Group Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Dunbar Group Site is praised for its natural beauty, proximity to the beach, and suitability for groups. However, the steep hill leading to the campsite and limited parking are noted as potential challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the site's spaciousness ('It’s a roomy site with 5 or 6 tables and a fire ring with a grill') and its proximity to Dunbar Beach ('The site is lovely and right across from the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include the steep hill that must be climbed to access the site ('Steep hill to walk up to the site. I must have gone up that hill 20 times this weekend') and parking limitations...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend packing light and bringing simple, easy-to-cook meals due to the difficulty of making multiple trips up the hill. One review advises, 'The less trips you have to make to your car...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The site is less crowded during the off-season, making parking less of an issue. Summer sees increased demand and limited parking availability, especially on warm days.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The site is lovely and right across from the beach. It’s a roomy site with 5 or 6 tables and a fire ring with a grill.' 2. 'Restrooms were clean.' 3. 'Steep hill to walk up to the site. I must...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific feedback focuses on the Dunbar Group Site’s spaciousness and proximity to the beach. However, the hill and parking limitations are frequently mentioned.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features, but the steep hill and lack of vehicle access may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the site, but no specific user feedback regarding pet experiences was provided.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025