Dog-Friendly Activities in Chesterton, IN

There are 5 dog-friendly activities in Chesterton, and 49 more nearby. Use the links below to get an overview of each one, see pictures, print directions, and even read reviews from other dog owners. Coming from out of town? Get a discounted rate on pet friendly hotels in Chesterton.

Indiana Dunes State Park

Chesterton, IN

Indiana Dunes State Park Indiana Dunes State Park consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful, historic and unique Hoosier landscape in Chesterton, IN. It lies at the north end of State Road 49 in Porter County, and includes more than 3 miles of beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. The national lakeshore beaches to the east of the park are pet friendly - Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach and Lake View Beach. Dogs must be leashed at all times, even when swimming in the lake. Handlers allowing pets to chase birds or otherwise harass wildlife are subject to a citation. Pet handlers are responsible for carrying waste off the beach. See Details

Coffee Creek Preserve

Chesterton, IN

Coffee Creek Preserve Coffee Creek Preserve is a pet-friendly destination in Chesterton, IN. Your leashed four-legged family member can tag along as you explore the area. The preserve has over 5 miles of trails that wind through the woods along the creek, beginning with a boardwalk and then meandering through the forest, crossing seven charming bridges along the way. See Details

Iron Horse Heritage Trail

Chesterton, IN

Iron Horse Heritage Trail The Iron Horse Heritage Trail is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Chesterton! The map below shows a parking area with convenient access to the Iron Horse Heritage Trail. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has generously provided map data for this trail to Bring Fido for informational purposes only. For more detailed trail information, please visit TrailLink.com. See Details

Prairie-Duneland Trail

Chesterton, IN

Prairie-Duneland Trail The Prairie-Duneland Trail is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Chesterton! The map below shows a trailhead where you can pick up the Prairie-Duneland Trail. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has generously provided map data for this trail to Bring Fido for informational purposes only. For more detailed trail information, please visit TrailLink.com. See Details

Brookdale Park

Chesterton, IN

Brookdale Park Brookdale Park is pet-friendly. Bring your leashed pooch to this small park to explore pathways that circle a grassy field, structures and a fishing pond. Pause for a while at the picnic tables in the field. Visitors are reminded to clean up any mess that is left behind. Brookdale Park is best accessed during daylight hours. See Details

Indiana Dunes National Park

Porter, IN

Indiana Dunes National Park Indiana Dunes National Park is a dog-friendly attraction in Porter, IN. Explore this beautiful nature center and dunes area with your leashed pet. Dogs are permitted on all beaches in the park except the West Beach swimming area. Before leaving, be sure to stop by the Visitors Center to have Fido certified as an official National Park B.A.R.K. Ranger! See Details

Gabis Arboretum & Gardens

Valparaiso, IN

Gabis Arboretum & Gardens Connect with nature and Fido on the dog-friendly trails at Gabis Arboretum & Gardens in Valparaiso, IN. The Arboretum is part of the Purdue Northwest University and serves as a place for education, conservation and engagement. Please leash and clean up after your pets on the trails. See Details

Woodland Dog Park

Portage, IN

Woodland Dog Park Woodland Dog Park in Portage, IN has two separate fenced sections for large and small dogs. Visitors will find shade trees, bench seating and fun agility equipment and obstacles to entertain athletic pups. See Details

Bark Park at Creek Ridge County Park

Michigan City, IN

Bark Park at Creek Ridge County Park Bark Park at Creek Ridge County Park is a leash-free dog exercise area in Michigan City, IN. This 3-acre fenced park is an ideal spot to let Fido run and burn off his energy. Registration and the purchase of an annual or daily permit is required. Fees are paid on site. Owners must present their No-Leash Dog Permit upon request. See Details

Diana of the Dunes Dare

Gary, IN

Diana of the Dunes Dare Unleash your adventurous side and take on the Diana of the Dunes Dare. This pet-friendly hiking challenge follows the path of Chicago native Alice Mabel Gray, who left behind a career at the U.S. Naval Observatory to live in what is now Indiana Dunes National Park. This unusual lifestyle earned Alice the nickname Diana of the Dunes. Fido can tag along as you follow in Diana's footsteps, but dogs must be kept on a leash. See Details

Cowles Bog Trail

Dune Acres, IN

Cowles Bog Trail Designated as a National Natural Landmark, Cowles Bog Trail is a hiking path rich in plant diversity near Dune Acres. This 4.7-mile trail is located in Indiana Dunes National Park and is a popular destination for viewing Fall colors in the cooler months. Fido is welcome to explore the swamps, marshes, beaches and views of Lake Michigan along the hike, but dogs must be kept on a leash. See Details

The Richardson Preserve

La Porte, IN

The Richardson Preserve Located off Highway 35 between Michigan City and La Porte, IN, the Richardson Preserve—nicknamed the Hidden Hundred—is a dog-friendly natural area perfect for peaceful walks with your pup. With a mix of plant communities and nearly 300 native plant species, it’s a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting over 100 species, including hawks, owls, hummingbirds and woodpeckers. See Details

Brincka Cross Gardens

Michigan City, IN

Brincka Cross Gardens Brincka Cross Gardens is pet-friendly. Developed by an artist, this beautiful garden in Michigan City welcomes dogs to join their owners on a walking tour. You and your pooch are welcome to explore four acres of landscaped gardens and 21 acres of pristine woodlands. The gardens boast hundreds of hostas, daffodils, crabapple trees, ornamental grasses, and more, all surrounding a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired house. Dog owners are reminded to clean up any mess that is left behind. Brincka Cross Gardens are open every day of the week from dawn until dusk. See Details

DICK'S Sporting Goods Valparaiso

Valparaiso, IN

DICK'S Sporting Goods Valparaiso DICK'S Sporting Goods at Porters Vale Shopping Center in Valparaiso, IN, is pet friendly. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to browse the store alongside their owners. This chain sports store features a range of products from camping equipment and apparel to weights and accessories. See Details

Deep River County Park

Hobart, IN

Deep River County Park Deep River County Park is pet-friendly. Bring your pooch to this Hobart park for a walk on paved trails that lead to historic buildings like a grist mill, lakes, woodland and more. Dogs must be kept on a leash during their visit. Deep River County Park is open every day of the week from 7am until sunset. See Details

Bark Park at Bluhm County Park

Westville, IN

Bark Park at Bluhm County Park Bark Park at Bluhm County Park is a leash-free dog exercise area in Westville, IN. This 3-acre fenced park is an ideal spot to let Fido run and burn off his energy. Registration and the purchase of an annual or daily permit is required. Fees are paid on site. Owners must present their No-Leash Dog Permit upon request. See Details

Friendship Botanic Gardens

Michigan City, IN

Friendship Botanic Gardens Come and experience the Gardens’ abundant nature and wildlife along the walking and hiking trails. We have multiple dog walking trails of varying length through the valley of Trail Creek. You can choose a short dog friendly trail if you are pressed for time, or go down multiple paths while enjoying the wonderful features the Gardens have to offer. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Please come prepared to clean up after your pet. Let’s keep the garden trails serene and clean for all visitors. See Details

Sunset Hill Farm County Park

Valparaiso, IN

Sunset Hill Farm County Park Sunset Hill Farm County Park is a pet-friendly recreational area in Valparaiso, IN. Situated on 238 acres, this natural area on a former farm is home to wonderful wooded trails to explore with your leashed pooch. Dog owners are reminded to clean up after pups. See Details

Best Buy Valparaiso

Valparaiso, IN

Best Buy Valparaiso Well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to visit Best Buy in Valparaiso, IN. This pet-friendly chain electronics store offers a range of products, from computers and appliances to video games and security systems. See Details

Lowe's Home Improvement Merrillville

Merrillville, IN

Lowe's Home Improvement Merrillville Lowe's Home Improvement is a chain store with a pet-friendly location in Merrillville, IN. Leashed dogs are welcome inside to shop alongside their owners for a range of supplies. The aisles are filled with tools, appliances, paint, gardening equipment and more. See Details