Dog-Friendly Activities in Grand Beach, MI

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!

Warren Dunes State Park has a beautiful pet-friendly beach on Lake Michigan in Sawyer, MI. Dogs are allowed in the campground, forested trails, boardwalks, and north of the northernmost swim buoy at the beach, which provides two and a half miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under the direct control of their owner at all times. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles. Entry fees apply.

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.

Located in Stevensville, MI, dog-friendly Grand Mere State Park is characterized by magnificent dunes, deep blowouts and one mile of Lake Michigan shoreline. This attraction allows leashed dogs in the swimming area and the secluded beach.

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.

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.

Watermark Brewing Company is a dog friendly, craft brewery located in SW Michigan, in the quaint downtown Stevensville. They have lots of grassy areas and seating during the warm months, as well as a heated outdoor area for the colder months. Although they do not serve food, they sometimes have food trucks onsite; check their website for schedule. Dogs are not allowed inside, only in the covered indoor/outdoor area and in the lawn. Their beer changes seasonally and there is a good variety to choose from.

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.

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve in New Carlisle, IN, is pet-friendly. Explore 320 acres on trails through wetlands, woods and old-growth fields with your leashed pooch for company. Dog owners are reminded to clean up after pups to preserve the cleanliness of the area. Spicer Lake Nature Preserve can be accessed every day of the week from dawn until dusk.

Bring Fido to Warren Woods State Park in Three Oaks, MI. This pet-friendly recreation area offers a quiet 1-mile hiking trail that leads over a bridge overlooking the rustic Galien River. Please note your furry friend isn't permitted in buildings or the swimming areas during your visit.

Transient Artisan Ales is a dog-friendly brewery in Bridgman, MI, where Fido is welcome to join you inside the taproom or outside at a picnic table. They offer a variety of beers including pilsners, blondes, IPAs, stouts and sours.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Bendix Woods County Park is pet-friendly. Explore a variety of wooded trails that wind around 195 acres of protected land in New Carlisle. Along the way, peer into ponds and play in fields with your leashed pooch. Dog owners are reminded to clean up any mess that is left behind. Bendix Woods County Park is open every day of the week from dawn until dusk.

Fido is invited to play at the dog park at Hickory Creek Park in Stevensville, MI. Bring your pup to enjoy some off-leash fun together. There are two separate areas for small and large dogs to play.

Garwood Orchards in La Porte, IN has been a family farming business since 1831. This pet-friendly seasonal attraction welcomes leashed dogs to join their owners for a morning or afternoon picking apples. Well-behaved pets are welcome to hop aboard the tractor that will bring visitors out to the Upick orchard. Note that dogs aren't permitted in the market and must remain out of the berry and vegetable plant areas.

Allow Fido to expend his energy at the large off-leash dog run in Lurh Park, La Porte, IN. Outside of the enclosed dog run, visitors will find a nature center, two picnic pavilions, a playground, a workout area, and walking trails.

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.