Did you know that only 116 miles away, right at the tippy top of Indiana, we have had quite the treasure just sitting there hanging out since 1916. Colonel Richard Liber was a businessmen in Indianapolis until he thought that the 15,000 acres of sand and shore should become a state park. Then he traded in his suit and tie for a badge and baseball cap and became the first Director of the Indiana Department of Conservation. Today, there are offices, campgrounds, bathrooms, beach houses, and shelters spread out all through the park. There are 14 trails and each trail varies in length and difficulty. The Indiana Dunes State Park has everything you coudl needs for all ages.

Not only are the dunes a fun and adventurous place to go, but it is a whole new experience that you cannot pick up anywhere else. It’s a place with many sand dunes, random paths, instagram-worthy photo opps, and a lengthy lake shore that stretches from one side to the other all for just all for just $7 a car load. You are able to run around with your friends, play in the sand, hike the trails, and find your own paths; meanwhile, your parents can relax by the water and stick their nose in a book.

With all this free-time coming up in the summer, grab a large group of friends and head on up to run around the dunes, lay out and catch some rays next to the lake, or pitch a tent and cook a marshmallow or two. I can guarantee that you will be 100% satisfied with your experience.