Indiana Dunes National Park advises against swimming at 5 beaches due to E. coli
E. coli levels exceed state water quality standards at Mt. Baldy, Central, Dunbar, Portage Lakefront, and West Beach
PORTER, Ind. (WNDU) - Indiana Dunes National Park is advising visitors not to swim at five beaches after E. coli levels exceeded state water quality standards.
Park officials said testing on Wednesday, July 29, indicated that E. coli levels at Mt. Baldy Beach, Central Beach, Dunbar Beach, Portage Lakefront, and West Beach exceeded water quality standards for swimming.
Due to an increased risk of contracting an illness while swimming, the national park advises against swimming at those locations until further notice.
Officials said additional testing at Mt. Baldy, Central, Dunbar, Portage Lakefront, and West Beach will take place Thursday, July 30, to determine bacteria levels. Results will be updated Friday, July 31.
Officials said all other waters at the national park tested within safe water quality standards for swimming.
The affected beaches and areas remain open to the public. Officials recommend visitors enjoy the beach from the shore only.
Stay up to date on local news with WNDU on-air and online. Be sure to download the 16 News Now App and follow our YouTube page as we continue to bring you the latest news coverage.
Copyright 2026 WNDU. All rights reserved.
