Such a nice park. The east bluff hike was great. We love that we were able to bring our dogs on the hike. The views of the lake were stunning. The hike was very easy and the trail was well kept. read more

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TL:DR - If going more than one day, consider getting the annual pass. Beautiful hikes, but way over saturated with people. Beach was packed midweek/mid-coronavirus and plenty of hikers blaring music on their bluetooth speakers in the middle of the woods. As of 06/08, the park is open, but the visitor center, rental station, and bathrooms were all still closed. This place is really beautiful, but was really over saturated with people. This was the case mid-week during a pandemic. We got here at 9:30, and people were already staking out beach spots to hunker down for the day... Luckily we were just here to hike, but even on the hike, you couldn't go 5 minutes without running into another group and you couldn't go 10 min without passing a group trying to avoid conversation by blasting music from a bluetooth speaker while hiking. Based on several suggestions, we were told the "East bluff" trail was the best hike to take. It is quite gorgeous and a relatively easy hike if you're in good walking shape. There are some stairs and most of the trail is paved. There are tons of great look outs along the way, but most of those look outs don't have a paved trail leading to them. In addition to the "East bluff trail" we went passed balanced rock (much smaller than I expected), devils doorway (where people felt the need to climb all over the thing), potholes (we only saw one pot hole near the north end of the trail, so feel free to see them and turn back), a portion of the grottos trail (great pockets of cold air coming from underground caverns), and rozenose meadows (least busy, beautiful meadows, little to no cover). The price was quite high, if you are going more than a day ($16/day), it may be worth it to just get the annual pass ($38). read more

This place is special! I'm disappointed that it took me so long to visit. I needed a place to get away from the busy life and just let the stress melt away. Devil's Lake State Park delivered. For this year's rates, cars with Wisconsin plates can buy a one day pass for $8 or a annual pass for $28. Out of state plates cost more, obviously. I arrived on Thursday of Labor Day weekend, so it wasn't busy. The lake was calm and mostly surrounded by the bluffs and the beaches at North Shore and South Shore. The park was quiet, and just driving in on the entrance road, with the forest on either side of me, I started to feel relaxed. The North Shore of the lake seems to be the most popular. The store and concession stand is open more consistently than the smaller version on the South Shore. The beach seems a little nicer and has more amenities than the south shore, although the south shore has a significantly large park space for picnics, as well as a volleyball court and a hall for event rentals. There was a wedding there during my visit. There is a lot to explore with various camp sites, points of interest, and hiking trails labeled in the Visitor's Guide as easy to difficult, but I kept my exploring to a minimum with a mile and a half hike along the lake and a drive to the south shore from the north shore. I was there to do as little as possible and enjoy some clean air and tranquility. My mission was accomplished. read more

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Wow. What an incredible state park. My girlfriend and I decided to do a girls day at Devils Lake. I have never been before. All we wanted to do was hike. We arrived around 10am. It was $16 to enter the park. Once we parked, we went into the little gift shop to buy a coffee and go to the bathrooms. I noticed right away that the building looked like they were brand new. Super clean. Once we got on the trails, I was taken back by how beautiful everything was. The trails were easily marked and well taken care of. I also noticed that there were a ton of dogs on the trails! If you're thinking about taking a day or weekend to visit, DO IT! You will not be disappoint. read more

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Such a great spot to hike, camp, swim or do pretty much anything outside. It's amazing that all of leveled hikes from easy to difficult within the park have great views. I highly recommend Devils Lake If you are looking for your outdoor fix. read more

The hiking trails are phenomenal. You can bring your pups. It gets crowded at least during August when I was there. I'd love to one back and do more hiking. read more

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Gorgeous sights and challenging trails, unlike many other local state parks. For a $40 season pass, we spent 5 hours on our first trip hiking flat and incline trails and cliffs, to tops where we had spectacular views of the serene Devil's Lake. Based on what we did, I would recommend the following (based on difficulty level): Beginners/Easy (young children & elderly) - Tumbled Rocks Trail; Grottos Trail Moderate - East Bluff Woods Trail; Devil's Doorway Trail Difficult - Balanced Rock Trail; Potholes Trail The park has excellent public restrooms, clean facilities, and an immaculate park full of people enjoying all sorts of outdoor activities. Pet-friendly. read more

Beautiful views, great hiking, really great rock climbing and part of the ice age trail so your national parks pass gets you in. Camping books up fast so reserve early or plan on staying outside the park read more

We visited on a Friday in August and it was PACKED. Parking was hard to find and the lake had so many people in it. We decided to try Parfrey's Glen Trail to see a waterfall. We had a lot of trouble finding the road to get there...because it actually goes over the intersection on the map and you have to leave the park to get on it. Mid search, we stopped for a picnic. The bathroom was ok. One toilet paper huge roller had opened and the tp was on the ground, but there was someone in the midst of cleaning. Cars were zipping well over the 15mph speed right by the playground. All in all, it was a decent picnic spot, but I was glad to leave and get to a less populated area. read more

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My first time in this park and I was impressed! I got there before 10am and the place was pretty empty but on my way out around 2pm it was packed with people. I went there for a hike and it was all worth it. The views from the top were great. There were many families up the trails with dogs, etc. I very much enjoyed my visit. read more

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A park has to be pretty amazing to help your husband recover from a crushing NCAA loss for his beloved Wildcats in overtime play that blocked them from a Final Four Dance. Devil's Rock State Park is that amazing. Even in early spring before anything is green and after everything white has melted. Since I'm oblivious to the NCAA schedule (intentionally -- I rather resent the damn tournament because it interferes with my wedding anniversary every year), I scheduled our trip to this park right in the middle of the Kentucky versus Auburn game. To my darling husband's credit, he didn't even mention it. Because he was so lovely about it, I offered to stop on our ascent on the West Bluff Trail so he could watch the last few minutes of regulation play and then overtime on his phone (thank goodness our carrier had service -- thanks Cricket). Actually, I was worried he might fall over the side of the cliff and I wasn't sure about the status of the life insurance premiums. Just kidding. Kentucky lost. He was mad. His curse words might have echoed off the partially frozen lake. Then the beauty of the place took over and we enjoyed a two hour hike of the West Bluff. Against advice from our resort concierge, we chose to ascend the trail on the steep side closest to the park entrance and nearest Baraboo. I'm glad we did. While the climb was steep, it was doable and I think it was the better approach. We got great photos on the way up and took our time at all the overlooks. We did the shorter hike (about 2.5 miles) and returned to the parking lot on the trail along the lake directly below the trail at the top. The longer hike would have taken us completely around the lake (about 6.5 miles) and we didn't have enough daylight left. Favorite parts: Photo opportunities. Color of the tumbled rocks (which is not visible in the photos but the green moss and the purple of the rocks were breath taking). Workout value of the climb -- safe but got my heart rate up. Information kiosks along the trail (explaining the rocks, the formations, geographic history of the area). Emergency call box and rescue basket (scary, but good to know it's there) - and road access for authorities to do a rescue. Tips: You have to buy a sticker when you enter the park but you have to pass up the parking lot closest to the entrance to the West Bluff Trail to get the sticker and it's a one-way road, so the best way to get to it is to exit the park and re-enter after you get your sticker. We paid $16 for a day pass for out-of-state plates. I wouldn't bring a child on this West Bluff Trail who is adventurous and who won't stay right beside you. I have a son who is 20 now. If I'd brought him to this trail as a 4- or 5-year-old, he probably wouldn't be 20. Too many places for him to fall over the side. I also saw a lot of dogs on the trail but was glad I didn't have my Golden. She's a GREAT, obedient dog, but she LOVES the water and may have broken her leg trying to get over the tumbled rocks to get to the water. She would love this lake, but I'd keep her on the side of the lake away from the rocks so she would have a safe passage to the water. And, another dog owner told us that one of the two beaches allows dogs. read more

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Every weekend when J and I lived in Milwaukee this was our spot. The drive kind of sucked, but it was worth it. It's a beautiful State Park about 25 minutes from the Dells. It's beautiful and there is so much to do. Hiking, swimming, snorkeling , climbing around on rocks, picnicing, and boating (non motor boats). Who can forget boating? I can't and probably never will. This is where the fifth star gets lost. Since we made the trek and were loyal fans of the park almost every summer weekend we decided to purchase a little 4 man inflatable boat. One of those cheap, but surprisingly durable and floatable Coleman boats. We used it several times and never thought anything of it. We were amongst kayakers, and other inflatable boat revelers. Not once did we have a problem until the day we met Deputy Douche ( I don't usually toss that name around a lot, but he deserves it). It was a normal blazing hot day. We had brought all our gear to our favorite rock, left it sit and launched our little boat. 10 minutes went by and Deputy DNR Douche pulls up with his sidekick with his shiny badge and asks us where our life jackets were. Keep in mind we could touch where we were, are both strong swimmers CPR certified etc, but didn't know the rule about the life jackets. Despite all the First Aid credentials we're both still city. DD: Where are your life jackets? J: We don't have any. DD: It's a state law, that both people need to have them J: Sorry, we weren't aware, are there any signs letting a person who doesn't know a lot about boating posted? DD: Everyone knows that. You're not special J: I'm sorry, we didn't know that. DD: Well you should have known that.........I'm going to have to give you a ticket. I just want to let you know that I'm not profiling you. A: Thinking to myself... Neither of us thought you were, I figured you're just a prick. J: Is there anyway you could let us off with a warning? We honestly didn't know. DD: It's my job. I don't want to spoil your day , but I have to give you one. It's the law. DD: You guys have a nice rest of the day! A: Silently giving him a two handed middle finger. The guy was such a condescending prick. There's no reason he couldn't have let us off with a warning. It wasn't even deep where we were and the profiling comment was just crazy.... We could tell he was some DNR guy with a big chip on his shoulder.. He forever tainted that place and sadly we haven't been back. It's no longer worth the gas in my car. Yeah, I'm bitter. That stupid ticket that he didn't want to spoil our day cost around $160.00 dollars. Yes, we probably should have brushed up on our boating skill survival guide, but had done it many a time before and never had a problem. Yes, it's the law and we're law abiders, but lighten up. It's worth a visit and the park is beautiful, just make sure to come armed with your WI rule book. read more

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Devils Lake State Park is one of the largest in Wisconsin and a very popular spot with families and large groups. Our group of 12 arrived around 11 am on the busy 4th of July holiday weekend and parking was already getting tight and lots of the best picnic spots were already staked out. There were plenty of people enjoying the water and grounds and everyone was having a great time on this perfect day. The park is VERY POPULAR so don't come expecting to be alone in the wilderness. There are great hiking trails, lots of places for picnics, boat rental, snack bars, restroom facilities and lots of great people watching. There is a per vehicle cost to enter the park and cars with Wisconsin license plates pay less than those from out of state. For a perfect day by the water, this is a great park to visit. read more

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Absolutely beautiful!!!! Such a great environment. I saw all ages and tons of dogs! I went yesterday (Saturday October 10, 2020) and the fall colors were just gorgeous! Be careful because some rocks tend to be slippery. I drove ~2.5 hours from Illinois to spend the day here. Note: I did go on a Saturday, probably their busiest day of the week. This place was packed by 11am, it was impossible to socially distance along the East Bluff Trail. I was aware of this ahead of time and arrived at the park very early. Next time I'll try and visit during a week day. read more

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Park is beautiful and great but the 'pet swim area' is a complete joke. It is very small and not enclosed, even though it is literally 5 feet from a main road. read more

Devils Lake is my favorite place to camp and enjoy the outdoors in Wisconsin! There is a whole lot to say, and I think a lot of the reviews so far have done a great job of highlighting exactly what I would highlight. Here are some of the main takeaways I have after seven years of camping here. HIGHLIGHTS: -Flush toilets are available on all the campsites! This is a huge win. There are also showers available. This makes it feel a little like "glamping" because we can maintain a certain level of cleanliness. -Double campsites are pretty big and easily accommodate multiple tents. We have never had more than three cars and two tents. -Absolutely beautiful. The water, the hills, the greenery, the woods--everything is very picturesque. -You can go see the stars through telescopes at night led by grad students in astronomy! We always do this and look forward to it each year. LOWLIGHTS: -The parking situation at the beach is overall just really stressful. We like to sleep in until 9 and enjoy a breakfast at our site before heading out for activities for the day (including swimming and hiking). However, the most recent time we camped here we ended up driving around for OVER ONE AND A HALF HOURS looking for parking. It's just that bad. -Over the years, Devils Lake has become increasingly popular. Why? It's an amazing gem, and it seems like everyone has finally gotten that figured out. While it's great that more people are going to Devils Lake, it definitely can put a damper on your experience. Every year we come here it becomes more and more difficult to take pictures by the beautiful overlooks because it is SO oversaturated with people. It's tough to get pictures without people in the background or on the side because they're everywhere. TIPS: -Get to the beach early in the day, regardless of if you're camping there or if you're just going for a day trip. As I mentioned above, parking can be really rough. -Speaking of early... Reserve your campground site EARLY in advance. We typically reserve in September or October for a July camping trip. All the double sites and the better sites fill up really fast. If you wait to reserve until right before the summer (or even in the summer), you're going to be really disappointed to find that the campgrounds are all at capacity already. -They're pretty strict on the number of cars per campsite and the number of people. You even have to provide everyone's name. Just something to be aware of! read more

Oh man. Take me back, TAKE ME BACK! Living in KY now, I don't see a lot of snow, so it was great to be able to explore Devil's Lake in the midst of winter with the lake frozen over and the whole of the park covered in snow. There is a fee to get into the park but it is totally worth it. We were able to park and start on our snowy way. WE just did the trail around the lake, carefully as it was snowy and pretty slippery in spots, but it was GORGEOUS. I can't wait to get back here in warmer months when it is lush and green. I planned to get back again in later 2020, but Covid changed a lot of plans, so...soon, hopefully. Soon. read more

I give Devil's Lake 5 stars for the name. Just kidding! This park has a little something for everyone. Whether you enjoy the water, hiking, bouldering, climbing, the views, camping, you have it all here. After so many years of visiting, I still can be surprised at the variations in trails. You have to visit the balanced rock and take a fun photo. The trails vary from easy to difficult, so there is a wide variety for people of all levels to enjoy. Note, the best views are from up top, and looking down at the lake on a sunny day is wonderful. I've also been climbing and bouldering here before. The climbs are fantastic, and it was a great experience for someone who has only been on indoor walls before. Bouldering is really fun, and much more strenuous than it looks. There are many spots to do this at Devil's Lake. One thing I didn't realize was the importance of long, tight fitting pants and long sleeve tee. I only say this because I got tons of scratches my first time around. And also watch out for the critters and spiders :( You can also visit the camping grounds. The grounds are wonderful, with pleasant bathroom facilities. In my experience, there are a lot of families and very respectful campers on these grounds. I've even invited friends who have never been camping before and they had a great time here. No wonder I keep coming back to this park! read more

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Honestly a really beautiful place, the air smells amazing on the hike up on a nice damp morning. The water and beach are a bit gross from tourists not cleaning up after themselves but that's not the park's fault. If you're into geocaching then you're in luck! There are many hidden around the entire park and some are pretty hard. read more

We had a great time tent camping (except for Bam Bam, my little shih tzu...I don't think he liked sleeping in a tent). If you have never been to Devil's Lake, it is smart to do your research about the different camp grounds before you go. We wanted to camp on a weekend in August so when I booked on April 1st, there was slim pickings. We ended up getting site 530 in Ice Age. It was nice. The sites in this area are wooded and feel like real camping. There was a picnic table and a fire pit and we tied a hammock to the trees for the kids. One of the other camp grounds we drove through was basically a big sunny field with very little privacy. Some of these other camp grounds seemed like they would be fun, but it doesn't fit the picture I have in my head of a secluded camp ground. We had so much fun that we have already booked one of the two teepees for next summer. I can't wait. Our kids are kind of small so we didn't do a ton of hiking but we did enjoy going down by the lake and listening to big band music that was playing through the open windows of the pavilion on the water in the evening. We let our kids wade in the water but towel dried them well and showered them off immediately because you can get swimmers itch from the water. I was a little apprehensive about letting them wade in but there were a million people swimming and the regulars explained to get the water off them quickly once they were out and they were fine. When we were by the lake, a big group from University of Wisconsin had set up large telescopes and they let us look through them. It was really nice. read more

Devil's Lake State Park - This feels like camping - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

This place is so nice. We went to go see the balanced rock and the hike was awesome. Definately recommend to those who are looking for a short, not challenging hike. read more

Devil's Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

Had a great day in Devil's Lake State Park! Admission to the park is free, we only had to pay $8 to park each car. Even though we got there at noon on a holiday weekend, there was plenty of parking. The hiking trails are clean and well-kept with great views of the lake and photo opportunities at rock formations. They allow you to carry in food and have grills available for use as long as you clean up when you're done. You can also carry in grills. The bathrooms were clean and we were able to use a covered picnic area for lunch. The beach was clean and there are kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats available for rent. You can bring rafts and floats for the water. We had a great time, lots to do and very happy with the condition of the park. We will be coming back! read more

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Usual state park...nothing to really set it apart from the rest. Lake, camping...that's about it

The hiking trails on the east and west side Are well marked and maintained. It has great hiking trails, with many to choose in varying degrees of difficulty. Bring snug fitting shoes that will not get rocks in them. There are great views from the top peaks, and it offers some interesting formations to check out. If you are going to see the top of the peak and/or the devil's door formation, bring a refreshment. It can be challenging for novice hikers but its well worth it. At the top of the peak overlooking the lake there are many shaded large rocks that can double as a resting place/picnic spot. Also you may get a glimpse of certain large birds of prey flying around. It spans 10,000 acres and is Wisconsin's most frequented state park. What else to do? Hike, swim, boat, float, picnic, barbeque, play frisbee, fly kites, bird watch, your imagination is the limit. Bring your own accessories. The campgrounds are very clean and well kept. Each site is very large. There is an admission to enter the park. but you have to pay for parking. This place is busy during the summer holidays and weekends. read more

By far the best hiking spot In southern Wisconsin (i haven't explored northern Wisconsin yet so can't judge the whole state!) Although it can get crazy crowded on nice summer weekends making parking difficult to find, devil's lake is always worth a trip. And if you can go on a weekday or a nice winter weekend you will almost have the place to yourself! I love to hike a lake loop. It's the perfect mix with the hike up to the devil's doorway giving your legs a great workout with a very rewarding view at the top. The beach is great to relax on after, and in the summer the lake is great for kayaking, canoeing or swimming! Devil's lake is always at the top of my list of recommendations for anyone visiting the greater Madison area! read more

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I live in Madison and am so happy that Devil's Lake is just under an hour away. Madison is the biggest city I've ever lived in and although there's obviously tons of great nature there, the tall buildings (okay, I know they're not really skyscrapers but it still feels tall to me) and dense population on the Isthmus can sometimes get exhausting. So when my partner and I decided to come out here for a hike on a sunny October Saturday, I was overjoyed. It's gorgeous here. We were a bit early for the fall colors but it was still beautiful. The air feels so fresh, it wasn't too crowded, and the lake was perfectly calm and blue. We did the West Bluffs hike which was pretty moderately easy and well worth it for the views. People seemed to be quite respectful of the park and the trails, which was nice. Parking costs $8 for a Wisconsin license plate and $11 for a non Wisconsin license plate, which isn't so bad if you make a day of it and have a car full of people. They also take card. There is a concession stand on both the north and south side of the lake but my partner and I brought sandwiches and ate them by the lake, which was exceedingly pleasant. Definitely recommend Devil's Lake for a day trip if you're in the Madison area - just what my soul needed. read more

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Absolutely love this place! It's so relaxing! The park is so clean and everyone is so friendly! There are water activities and hiking as well as a nice atmosphere to just relax by the beach. Very amazing getaway! read more

Devil's Lake State Park - The lake - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

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Take it from a guy who thought that Starved Rock was the best park in driving range. I'm from flat Illinois, 3 hours away. Upon seeing Devil's Lake for the first time, I had to ask two questions: Where the hell did all of these huge bluffs come from??..and why the hell didn't anyone ever tell me about this place?? WOW!!! Starting from the outside.. The drive in - If you come in through the small town of Lodi, this is where the fun begins. The landscape starts to pop around Lodi and it's also a good place to stock up on any last minute needs. From Lodi, drive north to the free Ferry that takes you across the Wisconsin river to Merrimac. The key word is FREE. Trust me, this adds to the trip in. The park - Before you go to Devil's Lake you should consider what it is that you'd like to do there. The possibilities are endless: swimming, hanging at the beach, camping, kayaking, fishing, climbing, hiking, walking, doing a cook-out, the lodge, etc. Each of these requires 'equipment'. Climbing & hiking - This is why my son and I went, but even in doing so, there are many routes to consider. There are two main bluffs to ascend; the east and west. Both have at least three ways to the top. In my opinion the two bluffs vary greatly. THE WEST BLUFF is more subtle than the east. A path running north-south spans the length. The climb up from the south end is steeper, whereas the climb to the top from the north side is more gradual. The west bluff features scenic views from at least 25 different vantages and you'll want to see Prospect Point (a rock formation) and the Geodetic survey marker nearby. THE EAST BLUFF is a lot more exciting if you enjoy a more strenuous 'climb'. I say that because unlike the west bluff, the east will require some hand use to ascend from the south shore parking lot, to the top. If you're physically able, I heavily advise this path up. The east side features a cut out path but much of that includes large rock ascent and a lot of cutbacks. The path is a lot shiftier and there's a choke point that tests those with a beer gut (climb it to see what I'm talking about). The east bluff ascent has several beautiful overlooks and features Balanced Rock about two-third of the way to the top. The best views are from the top of course, which are absolutely stunning. And if you climb to the top of the east bluff, do yourself a favor and make your way over to the Devil's Doorway. This is the best rock formation in the park with unique views south of the east bluff. Walks - If you're looking for more of a flat walk there are two great options, one on the east and west side of the lake. The Tumbled Rocks trail on the west side has a lot more to offer, scenically. This path has some weave to it and spans the base of the west bluff. This path is best accessed from the north side. Over on the east side there's a neat and historic train track "trail" that appeals to many. This working train track rail is still in service but walking it from the south shore to the lodge (or vice versa) is a neat walk. Both sides offer amazing views of the lake. Intangibles - We've done little except hike & climb at Devil's Lake but we have made our way into the lodge on the north side. They have a small gift shop with limited supplies and groceries. They also have a very small menu of prepared food and ice cream. I recommend a cone after a good hard climb! If you go to Devil's Lake to hike and/or climb consider the following items: Wear your backpack and take: at least one bottle of water per person, camera, binoculars and sunglasses. For longer trips you'll want to consider snacks, layered clothing and a paper map of the park (although all paths are very well marked) When climbing also know the weather forecast. The temperature at the lake level and the top of the bluffs can vary greatly, including wind. Unless it's 75+ you'll want to consider breakaway pants and long sleeves (at least for your backpack). I've taken trips up where I was wearing shorts and a t-shirt at the lake level, and needed three layers at the top. Also, be sure to wear proper footwear. I see a lot of bozo's wearing flip flops and fancy sandals. You can get away with most athletic shoes on the west bluff but the east bluff is easier when you have a hiking shoe or boot with aggressive tread. Devil's Lake is 5 stars any way you slice it. Whether you're a climber or not, the outdoorsy type or not, there's a beauty here that goes unrivaled for hundreds of miles in any direction. ENJOY IT! read more

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Devil's Lake State Park is a beautiful lake in upstate / central Wisconsin, wedged in between the rural town of Sauk City and the Wisconsin Dells. Right off of US hwy 12W, there is signage that will take you there, although its vague. The last signage you'd see heading west from Madison is a "1 mile to go" green sign, which basically is on a dusty unmarked road. The other sign that you are going the right way is that of a company called "Ski-Hi", which apparently makes apple cider and stuff like that. After about a mile drive on this road, I am glad that I reached Devil's Lake and not just a wrong turn. According to the signage at the park, Devil's Lake is named after western settlers thought that the echoing heard around the lake is that of the devil. Native Americans who were in the area prior to the arrival to westerners in the 1800's called the lake "Spirit Lake" due to the spiritual connection these people had with the lake. I thought that was cool. Over the 19th Century, more westerners came and started to settle in the region, building hotels and homes around. After a while, the hotels went away in the mid 20th century and it ultimately became an official state park as it is today. Devil's Lake is beautiful and is surrounded by mountainous bluffs overlooking the area. Devil's Lake was formed by glaciers 20 million years ago, when the last ice age claimed much of North America. There is plenty to do here. While they do allow swimming in the lake, I didn't really see myself in there anyway. I did walk along the beach and enjoyed the quiet open space for a good 1/2 hour just to relax and get away from the relentless long distance driving y'all have up here in WI. There is picnic tables to hang out and have a nice lunch here, which is nice. It was nice weather here late April / early May, so take advantage before it gets wicked hot. The only kicker is that of admission fees. For me being the tourist, I was only accessed $5 for an hour or $10 for the day, which was reasonable. I opted for $5, since I needed to get back to Madison to sightsee more before nightfall. It was a quick trip, but I did enjoy my time there. There are restroom facilities there, along with self service with the vending machines. Also a gift shop in the building too. Not too sure about that. Your best bet would be to come to Devil's Lake and have a great time. Whether you are a nature lover or just want to spend time outside real life and recharge, being here helped me reinforce that life is beautiful. Support local! A+ read more

This is the sort of place that was OK, but does not warrant a repeat visit. It's a short, easy hike from the parking lot to the bridge, about seven leisurely minutes up and around the hill, which is maybe 60 feet high. Most of the trail is forested, so although there is shade, there is also an abundance of bugs. Spiders, flies, mosquitoes, gnats - pretty much everything that's you'd rather not have crawling on you. The bridge itself is very picturesque. The trail up to the bridge has markers pointing out various plants and explaining how they were used by Native Americans. There are supposedly 3.5 miles of trails, but nearly all of that was closed down due to recent flood damage when I visited. If you'd like an easy mini hike or are just looking to do something outdoors for a half hour, check this out. But, make sure that you're thoroughly covered in insect repellent, and avoid the pit toilets at all costs. They had toilet paper, but the four stalls were nearly pitch black inside, and nothing good can happen in a dark, secluded bathroom in the woods. The park is actually about 19 miles/25 minutes from the Devil's Lake State Park office in Baraboo. Take WI-159 west to US-12. Go south on US-12 about six miles to CR-C. Head west on CR-C about 11 miles and the park entrance will be on the north side of the road. You can buy a $5 one-hour pass using the honor box, assuming you brought a pencil and cash. read more

Devil's Lake State Park - Natural Bridge and Rock Shelter, 7/21/08 - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

Came up here just to visit this park and it was def worth it! Compared to Starved Rock, this location's hike is much more strenuous and offers nice views overlooking the lake and the entire park! However, it does not have waterfalls or canyons. The hike is a loop, so you can start and end in the parking lot by going in a circle. We took the East Bluff trail to Devil's Doorway and balanced rock. and then continued onto the trail that took us to the other end of the lake. Got ice cream and rested a little bit. at that point, everyone was exhausted so we walked back around the lake via Tumbled Rock trail (west side of lake) bc it was easy and required no climbing, we just had to walk along the lake for about 30 minutes. It's definitely worth the trip but you should be well rested if you're choosing the strenuous hikes! read more

Devil's Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

Love this park. I'm telling you to go early Real early. The park is packed with parking and people. If you have the Wisconsin state park pass you can park in the park. Else you will pay for parking. Take a picnic basket enjoy the beach and the beautiful views. The cell phone service is literally none so if you are meeting people meet them in town away from the park. I'd suggest staying for the weekend and doing the trails. read more

Devil's Lake is a beaut of a state park! Definitely worth the drive up from Chicago. We arrived about 2 weeks before peak foliage. From the 500 ft bluffs over looking Devil's Lake we saw rolling hills that were seventy five percent green, with neon orange and mustard yellow peaking out. The trail we took up the boulders was challenging. I was breathing hard and watching my feet: girlfriend says I would have missed Balanced Rock if not for her. But I am super observant in nature and all-seeing so I doubt it. The other thing is, she's always right. Devil's Door is a natural structure that inspires imagination and provokes wonder: what was this place at the end of the last ice age? What did it look and sound like? What is gone and yet still here in the rustling autumnal trees? read more

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"The Lake" is one of there treasured places for my family and I, we have so many great memories here. Years ago climbed and guided here a lot, so I have been there easily 100 times. The trails and views are spectacular. The camp grounds can get a bit loud, however, the Rangers are pretty good at keeping things under control. There is so much to do and see here. If you haven't experienced Devils Lake, GO! It's amazing. read more

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Hiking and outdoors. That's my middle name... Just kidding. People that know me know that I'm definitely an indoor activities kind of girl. The closest that I have come to camping is talking about glamping (glamorous camping). But alas I started dating an outdoorsy guy who suggested going on a hike for our second date. I went, with very low expectations might I add, and I was blown away! This place is gorgeous. The lake is beautiful by itself, but the huge rocks surrounding the lake are breathtaking. Although I can say that I'm not the most outdoorsy girl, this was definitely one of the best locations for a date that I have ever experienced. Not to sound too self-aggrandizing or anything, but I have since hiked through the Arboretum. I'm on my way to becoming a certified glamper in no time! read more

Devil's Lake State Park - Boats at Devil's Lake - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

There's free wifi on both north and south shore. The downside is the parking fee process. Be ready with a pen,clipboard and 1/2 hour to fill out a paper form. It costs $5 per hour or $10 for a day pass. When I was there the yellow money sucking receptacle was completely full. Anyone could have fished envelopes out if the top and made a quick $50. Aside from that, it beautiful, quiet and great for swimming. Try it yourself read more

Hiking @ Devil's Lake State Park (DLSP)never fails. I have been there in all seasons and the place takes on a unique attitude irrespective of the season. Definitely hike DLSP and you will not be disappointed. read more

My wife surprised me with a trip here right before I was to start my new and now current job. The news that we were finally getting here was a pleasant surprise to me after having lost my then current job. We brought the dog with us and hiked as much as we could in 2 days. Given the unseasonably warm weather last May that wasn't as much as we would have liked. Note: If you have a dog that is rambunctious and sucks at physics, keep an eye on her! I had to rescue mine a few times after she tried to climb steep rocks and started sliding towards a drop. After paying $40 for our DNR pass, which only cost $35 at the time, we were on our way. After our first few hiking forays we spent a lot of time at the dog beach because our dog loved the water and campground didn't allow alcohol consumption. We had such a good time that we are going back...just not during peak tick season. Lesson learned. As if our trip wasn't enjoyable enough...a week later an envelope arrived from the Wisconsin DNR containing our $5 in change! read more

Devil's Lake State Park - After climbing the Balanced Rock Trail in 75+ degree heat, I was almost ready to join the Kanes in drinking from that puddle! - Parks Near Me - Baraboo, Wisconsin

I love hiking. I'm going to be honest.... I underestimated hiking here.... I was thinking it would be a nature walk because Wisconsin is mostly flat. I was very wrong. The boy and I started off with the East Bluff trail. The quick elevation change had me re-think this as an easy hike. There were many boulders and rock steps as we continued to make our way up. There were sections you could stop along at to get beautiful views of the lake (more on that later). We then checked out Devils Doorway (after several breaks and photos). Very cool. We had gone so far up the hike that the way back down to the lake was also a quick elevation change. We took the Pot Holes trail down. It was nothing but rocks and more rocks to climb down. I absolutely loved how technical this trail was. We tried to make our way to the West Bluff trail to fully circle the lake but ended up on the Grottos trail and then the train tracks going back the way we came (but along flat land instead so we made it back quick). We really liked this park so we came back the next day to check out the lake. Of course the weather had dropped 10 degrees from the day before so we were met be frigid waters. We then walked along the trail on the other side of the lake (I'm thinking it was West Bluff). That trail had its elevation changes but it was nothing like the other side of the lake. I do recommend checking out this park. Very beautiful and so much to do. When I come back I want to rent a kayak. read more

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Wonderful park with some great hikes and a beach to relax in after. Remember your America the Beautiful parks pass and you can get in for free. We did the loop from the North beach area and hiked the East Bluff Trail to Elephant Rock and on to Balanced Rock, Devil's Doorway and to the Potholes Trail. We came down the many stone steps of the Pothole trail to the Grotto Trail and then took the Boardwalk and Tumbled Rocks trail back to the car. Overall we did about 6 miles that day and were worn out by the end of a nice hot day. Many views and coo; things to see but don't expect a lot of Potholes on the Pothole trail as there are only 3 towards the top of the trail. Be prepared for lots of stairs and a decent amount of elevation gain and drop in the heat. Bring plenty of water and something to snack on if you are going to do this entire loop. Well worth it but be prepared with proper clothing, shoes and supplies. If you want to swim in a less crowded area go to the South area. read more

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