Lake County is a great place to raise a family. I know because I grew up here, and I have spent countless weekends exploring the area with my own family. From water parks to national parks, from beaches to bike trails, there is no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained and make memories that last.
Here are the top family-friendly activities in Lake County, Indiana.
Deep River Waterpark, Merrillville
Where: 9001 E 109th Ave, Merrillville, IN 46410
Best for: Ages 3 and up
Deep River Waterpark is Lake County's premier water park and a summer tradition for local families. With 14 attractions including a lazy river, multiple water slides, a wave pool, and a splash pad for the little ones, it is the kind of place where you can easily spend the whole day. Pack a cooler, claim a spot on the lawn, and let the kids run wild. The zero-entry pool area is perfect for toddlers, and the bigger slides keep older kids and adults entertained.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Where: Porter County, about 30 minutes from Crown Point
Best for: All ages
A 30-minute drive from most of Lake County puts you on the shores of Lake Michigan at the Indiana Dunes National Park. With 15 miles of sandy beaches, over 70 miles of hiking trails, and the famous 3 Dune Challenge, it is a full-day adventure that feels like a vacation. West Beach has lifeguards in summer, and the Dunes Learning Center runs ranger-led programs throughout the season. The State Park beach is the most popular for swimming, with easy access to the water.
Wolf Lake Memorial Park, Hammond
Where: 2324 Calumet Ave, Hammond, IN 46320
Best for: All ages
Wolf Lake Memorial Park is a 400-plus-acre outdoor recreation area on the Indiana-Illinois border. The park features a beach, a waterpark, walking and biking trails, fishing spots, and a concert pavilion. It is a great place to spend a weekend afternoon with the family. The trails are stroller-friendly, and the beach is a hit with kids of all ages.
Centennial Park, Munster
Where: 8600 Centennial Dr, Munster, IN 46321
Best for: All ages
Munster's 200-acre crown jewel is a fantastic family destination. The 3-acre dog park is a hit with four-legged family members. The walking paths around Maynard Lake are stroller-friendly. The playground is a favorite with local kids. And the 2,000-seat amphitheater hosts summer concerts and events that the whole family can enjoy. Centennial Park is the kind of place where you can spend the whole day without running out of things to do.
Local Libraries and Community Centers
Libraries and community centers across Lake County offer summer reading programs, story times, craft workshops, and family events throughout the year. These are great resources for families, especially on rainy days or during the winter months. Most programs are free and open to the public.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
Lake County has a packed calendar of family-friendly events throughout the year. The Lake County Fair in August offers carnival rides, animal exhibits, and live entertainment. Crown Point's Thursday Car Cruises at Bulldog Park are a summer favorite. Munster's Decades Music Festival fills Centennial Park with live music. And every town has its own holiday parades, seasonal festivals, and community gatherings. Check our events page for the full calendar.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Deep River Waterpark in Merrillville is the premier water park in Lake County with 14 attractions
- ✓ The Indiana Dunes National Park is a 30-minute drive from most of Lake County
- ✓ Wolf Lake Memorial Park in Hammond offers a beach, waterpark, trails, and fishing
- ✓ Centennial Park in Munster has a playground, dog park, walking paths, and a concert amphitheater
- ✓ Local libraries and community centers offer free family programs year round
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best water park in Lake County for families?
Deep River Waterpark in Merrillville is the premier water park in Lake County. It features 14 attractions including a lazy river, multiple water slides, a wave pool, and a splash pad for younger children. It is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Are there good beaches near Lake County?
Yes. The Indiana Dunes National Park has 15 miles of sandy beaches on Lake Michigan, about a 30-minute drive from most of Lake County. Wolf Lake in Hammond also has a beach. Cedar Lake has public beaches for swimming as well.
What are the best parks for young children in Lake County?
Centennial Park in Munster has a great playground and stroller-friendly walking paths around Maynard Lake. Sauerman Woods Park in Crown Point has a playground and a walking path around a pond. Bulldog Park in Crown Point has a splash pad in summer that is a hit with younger children.
What family activities are available in Lake County during winter?
In winter, Bulldog Park in Crown Point transforms its splash pad into an NHL-size ice rink for open skating. Local libraries and community centers offer indoor programs. Many towns have holiday parades and seasonal events throughout the winter months.
Lake County is a wonderful place to raise a family, and I have seen it firsthand. If you are thinking about making the 219 your home and want to find a neighborhood that works for your family, I would love to help. Reach out anytime.
Also explore: Crown Point neighborhood guide and Munster neighborhood guide. Read more about best parks in Lake County.