Indiana Dunes · January · Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Park in January

January is a fair month for Indiana Dunes National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 31°F and lows 20°F, with about 2.7 inches of rain.

January is rated fair at Indiana Dunes. Consider Jul–Sep instead.

Full park guideAll parks in January
RatingFair
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low31°F / 20°F
Rain2.7 in

What to expect

Honest take: January is not the month for Indiana Dunes. Ice shelves form along the shore. Quiet and dramatic, but cold.

Local tip

Weekend parking at the beaches fills up early in summer. Arrive before 10 a.m. or come on a weekday.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Jul–Sep.
  • Closest airport: Chicago (ORD or MDW), about 1 hour.
  • Before you go: The 3 Dune Challenge is in Indiana Dunes State Park, which charges a separate fee. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Indiana Dunes itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is January a good time to visit Indiana Dunes National Park?

January is a fair month for Indiana Dunes National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 31°F and lows 20°F, with about 2.7 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Indiana Dunes National Park in January?

Highs average 31°F and lows 20°F, with about 2.7 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Indiana Dunes National Park in January?

January is one of the quietest months at Indiana Dunes National Park.