Devils Lake
Wisconsin's premier state park, offering stunning glacial bluffs, a beautiful lake, and over 25 miles of hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Devils Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wisconsin's premier state park, offering stunning glacial bluffs, a beautiful lake, and over 25 miles of hiking trails.
"Devils Lake State Park is a must-visit for its incredible scenery and outdoor adventures."
🌅 Golden Hour Hikes
Hike later in the day for stunning golden hour views from the bluffs.
🥾 Bluff Trails are Popular
Most visitors stick to bluff trails; consider Steinke Basin for a quieter hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East Bluff Trail
North Shore
Iconic bluffs with breathtaking lake views and unique rock formations like Elephant Rock.
Devil's Doorway
West Bluff
A striking natural archway carved into the quartzite, offering a rewarding short hike.
Steinke Basin
South Shore
A more serene, less crowded area with a beautiful trail offering a different perspective of the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour Hikes
Hike later in the day for stunning golden hour views from the bluffs.
🥾 Bluff Trails are Popular
Most visitors stick to bluff trails; consider Steinke Basin for a quieter hike.
🍎 Fall Foliage Delight
Devils Lake is a top fall destination with incredible foliage views from the bluffs.
🛶 Water Activities Galore
Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the beautiful lake. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour Hikes
Hike later in the day for stunning golden hour views from the bluffs.
🥾 Bluff Trails are Popular
Most visitors stick to bluff trails; consider Steinke Basin for a quieter hike.
🍎 Fall Foliage Delight
Devils Lake is a top fall destination with incredible foliage views from the bluffs.
🛶 Water Activities Galore
Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the beautiful lake. +1
🚗 Scenic Drives
Take a scenic drive around the lake for different vantage points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devils Lake State Park for its stunning natural beauty, diverse hiking trails, and abundant outdoor activities. The panoramic views from the bluffs are a major highlight, with many recommending it as a top Wisconsin destination. Some find the park can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devils Lake State Park is located in Baraboo, Wisconsin. It's about a 3-hour drive from Chicago. 
Public transportation options directly to Devils Lake State Park are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby city, but check availability beforehand.
Once inside the park, driving between trailheads and viewpoints is common. Biking is also an option on park roads. For exploring the lake itself, kayaking or paddleboarding are popular choices.
Yes, there is a vehicle admission fee for Devils Lake State Park. Fees are typically per vehicle and can be paid at entrance stations or online. Check the official Wisconsin State Parks website for current rates.
Devils Lake State Park has multiple access points, with the main entrances located on the north and south shores. Each offers access to different trailheads and amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to pay a vehicle admission fee to enter Devils Lake State Park. This fee grants access to the park for the day.
Devils Lake State Park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have different hours. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, camping at Devils Lake State Park is popular, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can book campsites through the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system online.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours, park rangers sometimes offer interpretive programs. Check the park's event calendar for any scheduled activities. Many visitors enjoy self-guided exploration.
You can purchase your park admission sticker at the park entrance stations upon arrival. For convenience, especially during busy times, consider purchasing your admission online in advance through the Wisconsin State Parks website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The East Bluff Trail offers iconic views, and the Devil's Doorway Trail is a must-see for its natural arch. For a less crowded experience, consider the Steinke Basin to East Bluff loop.
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also offers scenic drives and opportunities for nature photography.
Yes, Devils Lake is family-friendly. There are easier trails suitable for younger hikers, and the lake offers safe swimming areas. Picnics and short walks are great for kids.
You might spot deer, various bird species, squirrels, and other small mammals. Keep a safe distance and do not feed the wildlife.
Yes, Devils Lake State Park has numerous restrooms and designated picnic areas with tables and grills located throughout the park, especially near popular trailheads and the lake shores.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants directly within Devils Lake State Park. However, there are concessions and snack bars that offer light meals and refreshments during the peak season.
The nearby town of Baraboo offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to breweries. Tumbled Rock Brewery is a popular spot mentioned by visitors.
Absolutely! Devils Lake has many designated picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a perfect spot for a scenic outdoor meal. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Yes, there are grocery stores in the nearby town of Baraboo where you can purchase picnic supplies, snacks, and drinks before heading into the park.
For a day trip, packing a picnic is a great option. If you prefer to eat out, plan to visit Baraboo before or after your park visit, or check the availability of park concessions.
📸 📸 Photography
The bluffs along the East and West Bluffs trails offer stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting and beautiful colors for photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Wisconsin State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official park regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Yes, the unique quartzite rock formations, like Elephant Rock and Devil's Doorway, are popular subjects for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for designated swimming areas on the lake shores for safe water fun.
Many visitors enjoy picnicking with family, and the campgrounds offer a great way to extend the adventure. The Steinke Basin trail is a good option for a less strenuous family walk. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and snacks for picnics significantly reduces dining expenses. Camping is a very affordable accommodation option within the park, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.
Many of the most rewarding activities, like hiking and enjoying the scenic views, are free. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for potentially lower accommodation rates in nearby towns if camping isn't your preference.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The East Bluff Trail and West Bluff Trail are prime locations for capturing panoramic landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Don't miss the chance to photograph the Devil's Doorway arch and the intricate textures of the rock formations.
For wildlife photography, keep an eye out for birds and other small animals, particularly in the quieter areas like Steinke Basin. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Devils Lake
For a more tranquil experience, the trails around Steinke Basin on the south shore are less crowded and wind through wooded areas and wetlands, providing a different perspective of the park's natural beauty.
Key Trail Tips:
* East Bluff Trail: Moderate to strenuous, ~3 miles roundtrip. Offers the most iconic views.
* West Bluff Trail: Moderate, ~2 miles roundtrip. Features Devil's Doorway.
* Steinke Basin Trail: Easy, ~2 miles loop. Serene and less populated.
* Uplands Trail: Easy to moderate, connects various points in the park.
Always check the park map for trail conditions and closures before your hike.
Devils Lake: A Glacial Masterpiece
The unique geological features, such as the towering rock formations and the sheer cliffs, are a direct result of this glacial activity. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail also passes through the park, highlighting the region's glacial history.
+1 Visitors can learn more about this fascinating geological past at the park's nature centers.* Glacial Formation: The lake basin was formed by glacial erosion and deposition.
* Quartzite Bluffs: These ancient rock formations were shaped by ice and weathering.
* Driftless Area: Devils Lake is located in a region largely untouched by glacial drift, preserving its pre-glacial topography.
Water Activities on Devils Lake
Several access points around the lake make it easy to launch your own watercraft or rent equipment. Boating is also permitted on the lake, offering a different way to explore its shores and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line for various species, including perch and walleye, making it a popular spot for both summer and ice fishing. Water Activity Tips:
* Rentals: Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals are often available near the main beaches.
* Safety: Always wear a life jacket when on the water, especially when kayaking or paddleboarding.
* Fishing: Check Wisconsin fishing regulations and obtain a license if required.
Social
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