Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park
Camp Baxter is tucked away in a tranquil, wooded section near the Indiana Dunes National Park, in Miller Beach. This 2 Bedroom/1 Bath, newly renovated, 1920’s cottage is nestled on the side of a dune and loaded with Smart Home technology, modern conveniences, and abundant amenities inside and out.
Soak up the natural surroundings from the spacious, multi-level outdoor living spaces that feature a 6-person hot tub perched near the top of the dune, firepit (firewood provided), outdoor dining and seasonal cushioned lounge furniture, seasonal outdoor heated shower, and a 6ft tall perimeter fence that surrounds the compound for ultimate privacy.
We are dog friendly and Camp Baxter is affectionately named after our departed Vizsla (Hungarian pointer) who enjoyed many years chasing birds and squirrels around the yard!
Note: An additional guest fee applies over 4 people: $25/person per night (not including children less than two years of age on Arrival Date), regardless of length of stay or purpose of visit. The maximum occupancy is 8 people. Parking is available for up to four vehicles. There is no guest access to the garage.
Additional Amenities include complimentary Nespresso and Keurig coffee, 4 total Smart TVs with digital Comcast/Xfinity cable and video streaming, high-speed Wi-Fi, Nest Thermostat, and Washer/Dryer. Supplies provided include paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, hand soap, dish soap and sponge, dishwasher detergent, shampoo/conditioner/body wash, trash bags, firewood, bath and beach towels, all bedding, and more.
The street leading to Camp Baxter is narrow and easy to miss upon arrival. We recently demolished a building on the adjacent lot and the foundation is still visible. Once you enter the gated compound filled with mature black oaks, evergreens, and wildflowers, it is easy to become one with nature and experience how beautiful the Dunes are in all four seasons!
The cottage has a small but fully functional kitchen, separate dining room with a table that flips to reveal a poker top, cozy lower level media room, and a vaulted, skylighted Living Room with large windows and glass patio doors that open to the 700 sq. ft outdoor living space. The marble-tiled bathroom has heated floors and a jetted tub with a heated ledge seat.
Sleeps four (4) in two private, queen bedrooms and an additional four (4) guests on a full-size, fold-down sofa bed and deluxe, high-rise Aerobed (all bedding is provided). ............................
Add-on options (fees and taxes apply, invoiced separately after booking): * We are dog-friendly and allow up to four adult, house-trained dogs: Per dog fees: $79 (2-night stay), $29/night (3+ night stay) or $200/week * Guests may request an Early Check-in 1pm and/or a Late Checkout at 1pm. Each are available for a fee of $69 if Peak Season and $39 if Non-Peak Season. Due to COVID restrictions and enhanced cleaning procedures, Early Check-in and Late Checkout may not be available. 2 night minimum (observed Holidays require a 3 night minimum) Licensee must be at least 30 years of age. Abide by all Terms and Conditions of the signed vacation rental agreement required for rental of any Miller Beach Vacation Rentals property, regardless of booking method (direct or via a third party) No high school, college, after-prom party, or any other underage groups allowed. No bachelor or similar groups permitted. Additional Guest fee applies over 4 people: $15/person per night. This covers maintenance/replacement of aerobeds, pullout sofas, extra laundry, increased utility costs, wear and tear, and more. Maximum Occupancy is 8 individuals total not including children less than two years of age on Arrival Date Excessive cleaning (if required)is billed at $35/hr. Repairs due to damages are $45/hour. If anything becomes ruined or missing, you will be charged accordingly. Notification is given prior to any deductions from your security deposit on file. No smoking inside or anywhere within 15 feet of any open door or window ($1000 fine). In certain cases, an additional Holiday Premium may apply to your dates Care for the Premises with all due care, leave it undamaged, clean, and keep conditions safe throughout your stay. Safely Trust and Safety Damage Waiver Fee provides up to $10,000 of accidental coverage for contents damage and up to $100,000 coverage for accidental property damage and bodily injury during your stay. Full terms provided upon booking.
Licencees agrees to identity verification and background check preformed by SafelyStay, Inc. Neighborhood quiet hours are strictly enforced from 9PM-9AM; Parties / events, lack of decorum and disruptive noise will not be tolerated; If the neighbors are disturbed, Miller Beach Vacation Rentals reserves the right to ask the tenant to vacate the premises with no refund. Outdoor Music is not permitted after 9PM.
Small, wireless bluetooth speakers are permitted except during Quiet Hours (9pm - 9am). Not permitted are party speakers, amps, subwoofers, stereo surround systems, or other high-powered audio equipment, etc.
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2 night minimum (observed Holidays require a 3 night minimum)
Licensee must be at least 30 years of age.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Gary
Located in Miller Beach, a neighbourhood in Gary, this holiday home is near a water park and on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan. Travelling with kids? Consider Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts and Team Combat LIVE. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Portage - Ogden Dunes Train to Chicago - 9 min drive
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) - 70 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 19 min walk
Denny's - 7 min drive
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - 6 min drive
Beach Box - 10 min walk
Mr Fuel Travel Center - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park?
As of 9 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park on 4 June 2026 start from NZ$435, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Secluded, Fenced Cottage, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, Dog Friendly, Nat’l Park located?
This family-friendly Gary holiday home is located on a lake, within 1 mi (2 km) of Paul H. Douglas Center and Indiana Dunes National Park. Lake Michigan is 1.5 mi (2.5 km) away.
Reviews
8.6
Excellent
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Great place to just getaway! The gate, having to open and close everytime was a bit annoying. But the gate does make it feel like you have lots of privacy.
We spent very little time in the area, so I cannot comment on the town, shops, park, etc... It was a halfway point for us between Chicago and South Bend for a football game. The house was very comfortable and clean. We appreciated that there was coffee provided!
Enjoyed the hot tub with the quietness of the neighborhood it was truly relaxing. Watching for birds in the area was very enjoyable. I absolutely was in love with the heated floors in the bathroom. I appreciate an older home and could see the character it held. A few adjustments would have made it perfect and the owner tried over the phone to make the alarm stop but it continued throughout our stay so we fixed it in our own way (take out the batteries) for our time there. Shower head needs to be replaced but informed the owner of this as well. Appears to have a crack in the shower head-but did enjoy its rain shower qualities.
We enjoyed the stay and being able to bring our dogs was the best. The property is great, we did not use the hot tub, but did walk to the beach and that was great. There is also great food within walking distance so that was a plus too. Would stay here again. Just would recommend you do not try and come in a full size pickup with 8 foot bed, parking was a challenge even though they do have plenty of parking. It's a narrow lane the home is on and tricky to get the truck in and out. Next time we bring the smaller car!!! Thanks!Gina
This place offers very clean private secure property that makes you feel like your up in Michigan with the ease and access of the local shopping and food options and Lake Michigan beaches walking distance from the home.. oh and throw in a hot tub for relaxation .. this place offers everything you need if your staying in the area.
The yard is awesome, of course the hot tub at the top of the hill was the best, and we enjoyed the firepit as well. The house was a tidy little cottage at which we enjoyed our stay. It’s within a short walk to the National Park and downtown Miller Beach. The neighborhood is fine, pretty secluded, and still close to most attractions.
This property is exactly as described. It's private and off-the beaten path. It has 2 bedrooms, a small kitchen, laundry room in the basement and best of all a hot tub. It is so cozy comfy and a couple blocks from the lake.
Sharon C.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2023
Thank you Sharon! I believe it is in a great location for everything to do in the area.
Thank you again and hope to see you again soon!
Miller Beach Vacation Rentals
The house is nice, but pictures are a bit “glamorized” compared to the real thing. Kitchen in TINY so if you plan on cooking at all, keep that in mind. Not much to do in the neighborhood, but if your plan is to tuck in and stay at the house the whole time it’s a great place for that. The hot tub is very relaxing.
Annie S.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2023
Hello Annie, Thank you for your review.!
We do have several other properties that have a larger kitchen. Give us a call and I am sure we can find you a great place to stay.
Miller Beach Vacation Rentals
Location was a little rough, we were fien with it, but woul dhave appreciated a heads-up.
sheryl b.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2023
Sheryl: Thank you for choosing Camp Baxter for your getaway. Miller Beach is a tiny beachside community within the municipality of Gary, IN. Situated 10 miles NE of downtown Gary, the Miller Beach community is worlds apart. With its sugar-sand beaches, Chicago Skyline sunset views, adjacency to miles of pristine hiking/biking trails, nature centers, and museums in the Indiana Dunes National Park (America’s 61st and Indiana’s only!), easy 40min commute to Chicago via car or South Shore commuter train, and resident’s pride of home ownership, Miller Beach is fast becoming a resort destination.
Recently, there has been a resurgence in new construction and redevelopment in the Miller Beach corridor, and investors are flocking here. There are many structures in various stages of redevelopment. Miller Beach Vacation Rentals is constantly expanding to meet increasing market demand. Several of those board-up properties that you drove by on Lake St. are owned by us, and we look forward to unveiling them when complete.
During the 15 years that we have been renting our homes, we have NEVER had any issues or incidents with crime whatsoever.
We always tell our guests to let us know immediately if there is anything that we can do to make their stay more perfect (and leave a five-star review). At Miller Beach Vacation Rentals, someone is always on-call 24/7 through our message app to answer questions, find solutions, and ensure our guests have the best possible stay.
Starting with just one tiny house in 2007, my husband and I were the first to open our doors to vacation renters and demand was overwhelming. Since then, we have hosted over 55,000 guests from all 50 states and 61 countries. We are in the memory-making business, and our reputation, attention to detail, consistency, communication, cleanliness, abundant amenities, and industry-leading repeat guest rate (55%) makes Miller Beach and our vacation rentals second to none. We look forward to sharing our Miller Beach Vacation Rentals with you and your friends again soon!
Overall, we had a nice stay at Camp Baxter. The house was clean, conveniently stocked with basics like shampoo, conditioner, coffee, firewood, etc., and in a quiet, secluded area. We only had two minor annoyances, the second one being more important: 1.) no hot water in the bathroom sink. 2.) the listing describes the property as having a “6ft tall perimeter fence that surrounds the compound.” This is not accurate. The 6ft wood fence is partial with the rest of the property surrounded by a shorter wire fence. There was a significant gap under the entry gate and another gap near the back corner. We had to block off both to make sure our 3 large dogs didn’t get out. I’d recommend checking the fence upon arrival before letting dogs loose, especially smaller ones, and bringing a flash light (we saw coyotes along the back fence one night). The check in/ check out process was easy, house cozy, and nice amenities. We would stay here again and enjoyed our trip very much. Recommend to anyone looking for a secluded retreat who wants to bring along their pups!
Raelynn J.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2023
Hi Raelynn
Thanks for choosing Camp Baxter for your getaway and for your valuable feedback! We recently installed a new tankless hot water heater as part of our “go green” initiative as well as a water-saving head on the bathroom sink. There is more than adequate pressure and hot water, but it does take a minute to get from the tankless to the bathroom faucet. None of the other fixtures have any water flow regulators.
As far as the perimeter fencing, you are correct, the 6ft wooden privacy fence is installed where it matters most—in the front and sides of the property near the road. There is, however, a 4ft tall wire fence in the back and rear sides to keep our furry friends in and others out. Camp Baxter is uniquely situated on the side of a dune; in fact, the hot tub and wrap-around deck are partially built into the side of the dune. To preserve this natural beauty, we did not want to erect a wooden fence where it is not needed since there are no neighbors, roads, or anything to hinder the feeling of complete privacy and being one with nature. As such, we will check the two areas that you mention to ensure that the fencing is sound and complete. Thanks again and we welcome you back at any of our year-round Miller Beach Vacation Rentals.
Verified
8/10 Good
Lori F.
14 April 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication, location
Nice place.
We had a great time. The neighborhood was very sketchy but that was expected. Right near the dunes was perfect. The house accepted dogs, we brought our injured pup. Awesome. Smaller than anticipated but all in all it was awesome. Clean and had everything we needed.
With all the text messages from the rental company about checking in, they NEVER answered our text about how to turn on the outside lights. My husband and I numerous of times tried to text the number given and NO ONE bothered to call or text back.
Glad we did not bring the boat, should be very clear very small entry way and alley way to house. Very protected but we think someone either the owner or rental company had come in when we left. The storage door downstairs was locked when we arrived. The day we left to the dunes, Monday it was unlocked. Also, someone must have been watching us leave because we were not gone too long, and someone had come onto the property to put the trash cans out on the street. Very aware we had to do it because it is in CAPS in the house rules, so that was a bit eerie also.
All in all, great vacation and everything worked out. We were happy with the house and the fenced in yard and the space we had for the four of us and dog. Thank you.
Lori F.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified
6/10 Okay
Jessica W.
20 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Location
Smells like grandmas basement
Where to start… The listing says the house is in Miller Beach, IN. The house has a Gary, IN address. The town and neighborhood leading up to the rental property is really trashy. It looks like a hundred construction projects were never finished and everything in town looked really run down. I was thankful we brought the dogs and that there was a gate we could lock at the end of the driveway. The property itself looks pretty nice. We really liked the privacy/privacy fence the property has to offer. The house looks cute from the outside. The grass was long though, not sure when it was mowed last. We entered the house and noticed a very strong, musty, old basement smell (hence the title of my review). The interior is cute. Everything was fairly clean. I found a few large ants in the kitchen over the course of our stay. I also found a plastic meat and cheese wrapper by the nightstand in the bedroom to the right of the bathroom. So, that makes me wonder who’s cashing in on my cleaning fee? If it’s an outside company, maybe the rental company needs to ask for a refund. The coffee cups were dirty along with some of the silverware. The kitchen counters could use a good wipe down. It looked like something was spilled by the coffee maker and wasn’t cleaned up properly. The button to turn on the jets in the bathtub is stuck/broken. The outdoor shower doesn’t work. I was delighted to see that they provided everyday items such as shampoo/conditioner/body wash, hand soap, dish detergent and detergent for the dishwasher, trash bags, and paper towels. They provided beach towels and there are even sand toys and bag chairs at the house you could borrow for the beach, which was really nice. All of the smart home technology was pretty cool. The hot tub was ok, some sticky gunk on the edge of the hot tub. I think it was probably from some tape used to repair a possible tear in the hot tub cover. Nonetheless, it was nice to relax in the hot tub in the evenings. The heated floors in the bathroom were really nice. I’m pretty sure I need heated floors in my house now. Overall, I give it a 3 star rating. Not sure I would ever return, but that statement is mostly based on the neighborhood which surrounds the property. Driving through town made me very uncomfortable. For the most part, we had a nice time.
Jessica W.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 September 2022
Jessica: Thank you for choosing Camp Baxter for your getaway. Miller Beach is a tiny beachside community within the municipality of Gary, IN. Situated 10 miles NE of downtown Gary, the Miller Beach community is worlds apart and fast becoming a resort destination.
Recently, there has been a resurgence in new construction and redevelopment in the Miller Beach corridor, and investors are flocking here. There are many structures in various stages of redevelopment. Miller Beach Vacation Rentals is constantly expanding to meet increasing market demand. Several of those board-up properties that you drove by on Lake St. are owned by us, and we look forward to unveiling them when complete.
In December 2007, we were the first to open our doors and test the short term rental market in Miller Beach with only one property. There was overwhelming demand, and our home was constantly booked. Today, we can accommodate over 150 guests and are always seeking new opportunities to improve and make our guest experience positive and memorable. We are in the memory-making business, and our reputation, attention to detail, consistency, communication, cleanliness, abundant amenities, and industry-leading repeat guest rate (55%) makes Miller Beach and our vacation rentals second to none.
During the 15 years that we have been renting our homes, we have NEVER had any issues or incidents with crime whatsoever. We are devoted to sharing this little hidden gem with the rest of the world and have hosted over 55,000 guests from all 50 states and 61 countries.
Right now, Camp Baxter is our only “vintage” property and one of our most popular, and we employ HEPA air purifiers to eliminate any “grandma smell” in the basement. These were either accidentally unplugged or not turned on. We always tell our guests to let us know immediately if there is anything that we can do to make their stay more perfect (and leave a five star review) so that we can make it right ASAP. Unfortunately, many guests do not bother to reach out during their stay, and we never find out until after they are gone. Someone is always on-call 24/7 through our message app to answer questions, find solutions, and ensure our guests have the best possible stay. Thank you for your feedback and we welcome you to try any of our other Miller Beach Vacation Rentals!
Absolutely loved the secluded area and the nice hot tub and outside area! We had our 5 year old and our dog so it was perfect for them to be able to play in the yard while we cooked dinner on the deck! Nice quiet area as well, and felt very safe!!
Yes the driveway can be a bit tight but overall it was a great place!
Lauren P.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
2/10 Terrible
Mark C.
26 November 2022
Disliked: Check-in, communication
“Sorry” not sorry
Two bedroom - one bed is what ya get. The bed collapsed. The gate lock would not open. After thirty minutes of calling nobody back. Leaving me outside for a half hour. Mind you I called 6 PM with 7 PM, 8 PM, 9 PM, 10 PM, 11 PM midnight 1 AM, 2 AM, 3 AM, 4 AM, 5 AM, 6 AM, 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 9 AM finally I am told I’m sorry. By the manager. Not a solution just sentiment. Meaning I had to cancel the rest of my guest, because there was no bed in the rental. Six hours later I was told they could send someone over but by then it is too late. I had cancelled my family from coming. The catered food which was arriving at 11am was cancelled. And the over $2,000 spent was out the window and spent the holiday alone. They don’t care about the customer. Once the money hit their account that was the last time they cared. You will sign contract and have phone calls and pre screening but don’t expect any support from them when you don’t get what you paid for.
First, they have a signed contract after contracts and do background checks, OK acceptable. Then the day of they call you three different times. Make sure you’re coming and go over everything you had to sign in contracts. OK acceptable. When you get there the code does not work to get in the gate and you stand there for over a half hour and you call and you call and you call and nobody returns or phone calls. No fortunately I booked the same place two days later, and I receive the code for the gate which that one did work it shouldn’t have for security reasons, but it did. I get all my stuff moved in get ready for bed sit on the bed and the bed collapses. Waiting for a phone call from 6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM, 9 PM, 10 PM, 11 PM, 12 1 AM, 2 AM, 3 AM, 4 AM, 5 AM, 6 AM, 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM when I do get a phone call from the manager his response is “sorry” sorry which means the two bedroom two bed. In short, I have to cancel my party from coming which means I have to cancel the food for the week which means I am spending Thanksgiving alone and their responses. I’m sorry but thank you for sending the $2000. We’re off to the bank lol.
This place served it's purpose for a girls' trip, but only because we are not high maintenance. Upon entering, it smells musty, very musty. The photos make it look fresh and modern. It is FAR from that. Notice every pic has a filter. The basement is like a dungeon and none of us felt comfortable sleeping there. So the futon upstairs was used. IT'S a rock!! (And I'm ex-military and can sleep damn near anywhere!!) The gate lock was broken when we got there. I texted immediately to let the manager know, She said she'd get a new one that night or morning. We never heard from her again, until the night before check out. We used the lock from the sprinkler system, otherwise, we would have had no gate lock the whole stay...and let's just say with that neighborhood, probably not a good idea. I seriously never write complaints, but this stay was a bit over the top. The property is EXTREMELY overpriced, pics are not accurate and the property manager was inattentive. (She did call 72 hrs after our arrival. Too little, too late.) If you're going to Miller Beach, avoid this property.