Indiana Dunes Tourism has announced its formal support for legislation that would designate Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore as a national park. To accompany this stance, the organization released a video series designed to help visitors better understand and enjoy the region. The Dunes 101 series covers practical topics such as camping, hiking and beach activities, and highlights what makes the area special.
“We began the Dunes 101 series as a marketing effort to help visitors navigate the vast national treasure that is the Indiana Dunes,” said Dustin Ritchea, promotions director at Indiana Dunes Tourism. “At the same time, the series serves to raise awareness about this often-overlooked resource. Advocates have pursued national park status for the Lakeshore since 1916, and we hope these videos will help more people appreciate why that recognition is warranted.”
Indiana Dunes draws about 3.6 million visitors each year, a visitation level comparable to some of the nation’s well-known parks. If granted national park status, Indiana Dunes would rank among the busiest national parks in the United States.
“The Indiana Dunes encompasses more than 15,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, savannas, bogs, wetlands, beaches and shoreline, and it is recognized as an important site in the history of ecology,” said Lorelei Weimer, executive director of Indiana Dunes Tourism. “Decisions about national park designation should consider both ecological diversity and public use. The Dunes hosts a wide range of plant and animal species and attracts significant visitor numbers, which together make a strong case for recognition.”
“This natural resource is an environmental treasure for local residents, the nation and international visitors alike,” added Mitch Peters, board president of Indiana Dunes Tourism. “The park’s annual visitation supports our view that it is widely valued and well used by people from diverse backgrounds. We hope the United States Senate will have the opportunity to consider this important designation.”