Ranger Camp 3-Day Expedition

Park Event · Indiana Dunes National Park · Sep 11, 2026 – Sep 13, 2026 · 12:00 PM–1:00 PM

Bike • Hike • Paddle September 11–13

Indiana Dunes National Park & Indiana Dunes State Park

Please note: This program is in conjunction with the Outdoor Adventure Festival, Sept. 4-20.

Overview

The Ranger Camp 3 Day Expedition is a ranger led biking, hiking, and paddling experience designed for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Over three days, participants will explore rugged dune landscapes, travel by bike and foot across varied terrain, and complete a guided paddle along the East Branch of the Little Calumet River. This program requires self reliance, physical readiness, and comfort with primitive camping.

Event Agenda (subject to change)

Day 1

• 12:00–4:00 PM: Check in and camp setup.
• 4:00–4:30 PM: Safety checks.
• 4:30–7:00 PM: Ranger led bike ride with interpretive stops
• 7:30–8:15 PM: Campfire program – Marquette Greenway
• 10:00 PM: Quiet hours

Day 2

• 8:30 AM: Early Bird program options (Birding with Ranger Cookie; Compass Orientation with Ranger Powers)
• 10:00 AM: 8 mile ranger led hike – Follow the Glacier to Lake Michigan
• 7:00–8:00 PM: Evening campfire program
• 10:00 PM: Quiet hours

Day 3

• 10:00 AM: Ranger guided paddle on the East Branch of the Little Calumet River
• 1:00 PM: Closing program and camp teardown

Camping

Camping takes place at the Chellberg Overflow Camping Area. Tent camping and RVs are welcome. Conditions are primitive, with no electricity anywhere on site. Community fire rings and park approved grills are available. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Required Passes & Fees

Participants must secure required passes before arrival.

Indiana Dunes National Park pass options:

• Walk In/Bike In 7 Day Pass: $15
• Annual Pass: $45
• Purchase: https://www.recreation.gov

Indiana Dunes State Park:

• Walk In/Bike In Entrance Fee: $2 per person
• Purchase: https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks

Participants must show both passes at check in and during ranger led activities.

Registration

Registration is required and limited to 30 participants. Maximum group registration is limited to eight participants per group.

• Phone: 219‑395‑1824 (Call Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM to talk to a ranger or leave a message and we will return your call.)
• Completely fill out and email form: Download Form.

Parking & Base Camp

Base Camp is located at the Chellberg Overflow Parking Lot near the Nelson House. Coordinates: 41°37'29.74"N, 87°05'12.04"W

Participants remain parked here for the event duration. Potable water, restrooms, port-a-jons, picnic shelters, and grills are available in the Bailly/Chellberg area. Please see below for further details.

Skill Requirements

Participants should be able to:

• Bike 9–10 miles on mixed terrain
• Hike 7+ miles on rugged, uneven trails
• Kayak in variable river conditions and perform self rescue
• Manage gear and personal needs independently

Activities are optional but designed for experienced adventurers.

Mandatory Gear & Safety Checks

Bike Trek Requirements:

• Helmet
• Working bike lights
• Bike in safe operating condition
• Basic repair supplies

Kayak Requirements:

• USCG approved PFD
• Whistle, dry bag, proper clothing

Park kayaks available; personal kayaks welcome. Life jackets provided if needed. Rangers and certified paddlers will conduct capability and safety checks at the launch.

Trail, Water & Weather Safety

Expect uneven terrain, mud, stairs, and changing lake or river conditions. Rangers monitor weather and hazard forecasts and may adjust routes or activities. Participants will receive updates by email, text, or ranger announcement. See safety page for more information.

Emergency Contacts

• Emergency: 911
• Nearest ER: Franciscan Health Emergency Center 770 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN — 219‑921‑2000
• Park Dispatch: 219‑395‑1077
• Law Enforcement Hotline: 1‑800‑727‑5847

Paddle Route & Shuttle

The planned paddle route is Walner Preserve (launch) to Howe Road (take out). Route may change due to surf conditions, river levels, or hazard guidance. Shuttle service will be available for participants and boats. Specific instructions will be provided the evening before paddle day.

Water, Restrooms & Showers

Potable water and restrooms are available at Bailly/Chellberg. Port-a-jons are located on site, as well as at the State Park Pavilion and the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. Showers are available at West Beach, typically 8 AM–10 PM. Participants should bring sufficient personal water for camp and activities.

Food Storage & Cooking

Participants must supply their own meals. Guidelines:

• Use designated fire rings and grills
• Collection of firewood is only allowed with dead and downed wood.
• Secure all food and scented items (wildlife present)
• Dispose of charcoal and ash properly.

Accessibility

Activities involve strenuous physical effort and primitive camping. No additional accommodations are planned. View only interpretation may be available for companions.

Final Notes

Participants should be prepared for primitive conditions, long physical days, weather shifts, self sufficient gear management, and obtaining all required park passes. Check back here for updates.

Source: National Park Service (public domain).