About Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters
Overview Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 16,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.A short (50 sec) video description of the picnic area at Chellberg Farm is available on the park websiteRecreation There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs. Facilities Please visit our website at https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/west-beach.htm for facility information. Natural Features Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural
How to Get There
The picnic shelters are located at 618 North Mineral Springs Road (North 100 West), Porter, IN 46304 For detailed directions to the park, visit the Directions page on the park website.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters
Heading to Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters?
No central reservation system listed for Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10007156) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters?
The picnic shelters are located at 618 North Mineral Springs Road (North 100 West), Porter, IN 46304 For detailed directions to the park, visit the Directions page on the park website.
How do I contact Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters?
You can reach the park at phone: 219-395-1882 or email: INDU_Communications@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources