Indiana Dunes State Park
"Valparaiso visitors come for outdoor recreation, school trips, and scenic Lake Michigan access. The park is close enough for spontaneous afternoon visits and longer summer outings."
Indiana Dunes State Park features 2,182 acres of dunes, marshes, and shoreline along Lake Michigan. Its signature 3 Dune Challenge, sandy beach, and birding opportunities make it one of Indiana’s most visited outdoor destinations.
Eden Gardens State Park
"Valparaiso visitors can reach the park quickly for a quiet afternoon outdoors. It is a convenient destination for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the bayou setting."
Eden Gardens State Park centers on the restored Wesley House, a graceful 19th-century home surrounded by camellias, azaleas, and moss-draped oaks. The park also offers bayou views, picnic areas, fishing access, and a popular setting for weddings and photography.