Pinhook Bog

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore's amazing Pinhook Bog has been designated a National Natural Landmark. Pinhook Bog is about 580 acres; a quarter of that is made up of a floating three-to six-foot-thick layer of sphagnum moss. This delicately stringy, highly absorbent light-green moss is very acidic and was used in olden days as an antiseptic for wound care.

The thick layer of sphagnum moss is like a raft floating on top of an ancient, now-hidden lake. It keeps everything from tamarack trees to blueberry shrubs and insect-eating pitcher plants alive.

The rare and fragile ecosystem that makes up the bog is only accessible during ranger-led tours. Check our Indiana Dunes events page or contact the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center at 219-395-1882 for information on upcoming tours.

Activities at the Dunes

Indiana Dunes Trails
The Indiana Dunes has an impressive trail system which can be used for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing,...
Events Calendar
Every season at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the State Park is full of events. From Maple Sugar Time...
Beaches
The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park offer 15 miles of beautiful sandy beaches....