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"Howl"oween haunts at Indiana Dunes State Park, October 29 and 30

October 18, 2011

Get spooked and thrilled this Halloween at the Indiana Dunes State Park, as "Howl"oween haunts the Dunes, Oct. 29-30.

Hear scary stories, go trick-or-treating, decorate a campsite, see live owls up close, or take a special tour of the Dunes' pet cemetery.

"The pet cemetery is an eerie place, even in the daylight," said Brad Bumgardner, interpretive naturalist.

"Howl"oween activities kick off Saturday, Oct. 29, with a wide array of programs featuring critters that spook and haunt us. Judging for the campsite decorating contest will happen between 4 and 7 p.m. on Saturday. Kids are encouraged to bring their costumes for trick-or-treating between 4 and 5:30 p.m.

The night ends with spooky hikes into the dunes. Visitors can choose from several night hike options. Space is limited so registration is required for each hike. Hikers should sign up at the nature center on Saturday morning. Children younger than 12 are required to bring a parent. While there will be no intentional spooking of the children, imaginations may run wild that night.

Later in the evening, ghouls that are still awake can visit the nature center, where park staff will be operating the saw-whet owl banding station. Visitors can get a special glimpse of this amazing, tiny owl.

Banding operations are weather dependent, so visitors should inquire ahead of time at the nature center for banding hours and updates.

The weekend's programs are co-sponsored by the Friends of Indiana Dunes. Though the program is free, the standard weekend gate fee of $5 for Indiana vehicles and $10 for out-of-state vehicles will be charged.

For more information about this program, call the nature center at (219) 926-1390.