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Devils Lake State Park sits in the Baraboo Hills of south-central Wisconsin, roughly 3 miles south of the city of Baraboo. The park centers on a 360-acre spring-fed lake nestled between ancient quartzite bluffs that rise about 500 feet above the water — a geological setting shaped over a billion years of glacial and tectonic activity.
The lake itself does not drain naturally; it is dammed in on both ends by glacial debris called moraines, which is part of what makes its geology unusual. The water is exceptionally clear and is popular for swimming from two sandy beaches on the north and south shores.
With more than 29 miles of hiking trails and established rock-climbing routes on the bluffs, the park draws a wide range of visitors — from casual day-trippers and families to serious climbers and trail runners. It consistently ranks among the most-visited state parks in the United States, so expect crowds on summer weekends.
The surrounding Ice Age National Scientific Reserve designation reflects the park's significance as one of the best-preserved glacial landscapes in the country. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the park, connecting it to a 1,200-mile footpath that crosses Wisconsin.
Before You Go
Entry and Fees
Devils Lake State Park charges a daily vehicle admission fee for entry. Wisconsin state park stickers (annual passes) are available and can offer savings for visitors planning multiple park visits. Verify current fee amounts at the Wisconsin DNR's official website (dnr.wisconsin.gov) before your trip, as prices are subject to change.
Camping Reservations
The park's campgrounds are extremely popular. If you plan to camp, especially on summer weekends or holidays, book well in advance through the Wisconsin state park reservation system. Walk-up sites are rarely available during peak season.
What to Pack
- Sturdy, closed-toe footwear for hiking; the quartzite trails can be steep and uneven
- Sun protection — the south bluff trail in particular has significant exposed sections
- Drinking water; no water sources exist on the bluff trails
- A trail map, available at the park office or printable from the DNR website
- Cash or card for the entrance fee if you don't have an annual pass
Seasonal Considerations
The park is open year-round, but facilities such as concessions and boat rentals operate seasonally (generally Memorial Day through Labor Day — verify locally). Winter visitors come for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when conditions allow.
Getting There
By Car
Devils Lake State Park is located at the edge of Baraboo, Wisconsin. From Madison (approximately 40 miles southeast), take US-12 west to WI-159 or follow signs toward Baraboo. From Milwaukee (about 100 miles), I-94 west to US-12 is the most common route. Parking areas exist at both the north and south shores; the south shore lot fills quickly on summer weekends, often before 9 a.m.
By Public Transit
There is no direct public transit service to the park. The nearest Greyhound/bus service reaches Baraboo or Portage, after which you would need a taxi, rideshare, or a prearranged vehicle. Verify current rideshare availability in the Baraboo area before relying on this option.
Nearest Airports
Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison is the closest commercial airport, roughly 50 miles away. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is a viable alternative for travelers arriving from farther afield.
Getting Around
Within the park, most visitors travel on foot or by bicycle. A paved park road connects the north and south shore areas and is open to vehicles, but the parking lots at each end operate independently — you can drive between shores if needed.
Bicycles are permitted on designated park roads and some multi-use paths, but not on the bluff hiking trails. Check signage and current DNR guidance for permitted routes.
The park is not easily navigated without a personal vehicle once you are inside, as the distance between the north and south shores is meaningful on foot. Having a car gives you the flexibility to access different trailheads and facilities throughout the day.
Where to Stay
Camping in the Park
Devils Lake State Park has several campgrounds offering both electric and non-electric sites, as well as a limited number of backpack campsites. Amenities vary by campground and include flush toilets, showers, and fire rings at many sites. Reservations are strongly advised and can be made through the Wisconsin DNR reservation portal. Verify site types and current availability on the official site.
Lodging in Baraboo
The city of Baraboo, about 3 miles north of the park, has a range of motels, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts. Wisconsin Dells, approximately 10 miles east, has a much larger selection of hotels at various price points, including family resort-style properties. Booking ahead for summer weekends and fall foliage season is advisable regardless of where you choose to stay.
Vacation Rentals
Cabin and house rentals in the broader Baraboo/Sauk County area are available through major short-term rental platforms. Properties close to the park entrance tend to book early for peak-season weekends.
Things to See & Do
Hiking
The park has more than 29 miles of trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to strenuous bluff climbs. The Balanced Rock Trail on the south bluff is short but steep, leading to a well-known quartzite formation. The East Bluff Trail and West Bluff Trail offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills. The CCC Trail and Grottos Area provide a flatter alternative with interesting rock formations at lake level.
Swimming
Two supervised sandy beaches — one on the north shore, one on the south shore — are open during summer. Lifeguards are present during designated hours in season; verify current schedules locally. The lake water is clear and relatively cool even in summer.
Rock Climbing
Devils Lake is one of the premier traditional rock-climbing destinations in the Midwest. The quartzite bluffs offer routes across a wide range of difficulty grades. Climbers should be familiar with Leave No Trace principles; certain areas may have seasonal restrictions to protect nesting raptors. Check current climbing advisories with the park office before planning a climb.
Boating and Fishing
Non-motorized watercraft — canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats — are permitted on the lake. A boat rental concession operates seasonally (verify availability and hours locally). Fishing is allowed with a valid Wisconsin fishing license; the lake contains bass, panfish, and other species.
Ice Age Trail
A segment of the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the park, offering context for the glacial history of the landscape. Interpretive signage along portions of the trail explains the geological story.
Food & Drink
Inside the Park
A seasonal concession stand operates at the south shore area during summer months, offering basic food and beverages. Hours and operation vary by season — verify locally before counting on it as your primary meal option. Picnic areas with tables and grills are located at both the north and south shores and are well-suited for bringing your own food.
Baraboo
The city of Baraboo has a modest but genuine dining scene including local diners, pizza restaurants, and a handful of brewpubs and cafés. Downtown Baraboo is walkable and worth exploring for a meal after a day in the park.
Wisconsin Dells
If you are staying in Wisconsin Dells, the area has an extensive range of restaurants from fast food to sit-down dining, catering to its large tourist population. It is a short drive east of the park and a practical option for evening meals.
Practical Information
Park Office
The park office is located near the south shore entrance. Staff can provide trail maps, current condition updates, climbing advisories, and answer questions about facilities. Hours vary by season — verify on the Wisconsin DNR website.
Cell Service
Cell coverage inside the park, particularly on the bluff trails, can be unreliable. Download offline maps and trail information before entering the park.
Pets
Leashed pets are permitted in most areas of the park but are not allowed on the beaches. Check current pet regulations with the park office or DNR website.
Leave No Trace
The park is heavily used. Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails (especially on the sensitive bluff vegetation), and avoid disturbing wildlife. Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings; firewood sale and sourcing rules may apply — verify locally to comply with Wisconsin's firewood movement regulations aimed at protecting against invasive species.
Emergency Contact
For emergencies within the park, call 911. For non-emergency park matters, contact the park office directly — the number is listed on the Wisconsin DNR website.
Safety
Trail Hazards
The quartzite bluff trails are steep and can be slippery when wet. Wear appropriate footwear and use caution near cliff edges, which in some places are unguarded. The rocks along trail edges can be unstable.
Weather
Summer thunderstorms develop quickly in Wisconsin. If you are on an exposed bluff trail and see storm conditions approaching, descend and seek shelter immediately. The open bluffs are not safe during lightning events.
Wildlife
The park is home to timber rattlesnakes, which inhabit the rocky bluff areas. While encounters are uncommon, watch where you step and place your hands, especially among rock crevices. Do not attempt to handle or provoke any wildlife.
Swimming Safety
Swim only at designated beach areas. No lifeguard may be present outside of posted hours. The lake has no significant current hazards, but water temperatures can be cool even in summer.
