The Indiana Dunes National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, extends a special invitation to dog owners and their furry friends. The park will host a unique event designed to promote responsible pet ownership and deepen the bond between humans and their canine companions. This event will take place on Wednesday, May 17, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
As part of the B.A.R.K. ranger program, participants and their dogs will join a park ranger for an interactive induction ceremony. This program, a nationwide initiative by the National Park Service, signifies a dog’s official status as a B.A.R.K. ranger, according to a news release.
The acronym stands for Bag your pet’s waste, Always leash your pet, Respect wildlife, and Know where you can go. This initiative aims to ensure that pets, wildlife, and visitors can safely enjoy the park’s amenities.
The Friends of Indiana Dunes, a group devoted to supporting the national park and its initiatives, sponsors this event. Anyone interested in becoming part of this group of park supporters can gather more information at dunefriends.org.
The event’s location is the Chellberg Farm parking lot, which is situated on Mineral Springs Road between U.S. Highway 20 and U.S. Highway 12 in Porter, Indiana.
For further details about this event or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, individuals can contact the park at 219-395-1882, visit the official website, download the National Park Service app, or check out the Indiana Dunes National Park Facebook page.
Entrance to Indiana Dunes National Park is $25 per car for a 1–7-day pass, with an annual pass available for $45. You can purchase these passes or pay entrance fees at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, Paul H. Douglas Center, West Beach Entrance Station (after April 1st), or online at www.recreation.gov/sitepass/indu.
The park also offers Veterans/Military/Gold Star Family, Access, and 4th Grade passes for free. More information on national park passes can be found at www.nps.gov/indu.
The B.A.R.K. ranger program demonstrates the National Park Service’s commitment to nurturing a harmonious coexistence between nature, park visitors, and their pets. Indiana Dunes National Park, through this program, supports the shared responsibility of preserving the park’s natural beauty while ensuring a positive and safe environment for all.
This event stands as a testament to Indiana Dunes National Park’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership. Participation in the B.A.R.K. ranger program not only contributes to preserving the park’s natural beauty but also provides an excellent opportunity for pet owners to bond with their pets and learn about responsible pet ownership in a magnificent, natural setting.
The B.A.R.K. ranger event at Indiana Dunes National Park is more than just a walk in the park—it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to the health and safety of the park’s ecosystem. Come join us on May 17 and make a difference while enjoying the great outdoors with your furry friend.