Devil's Lake State Park
Wisconsin's most popular state park, featuring dramatic quartzite bluffs, a 360-acre lake, and challenging hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Devil's Lake State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wisconsin's most popular state park, featuring dramatic quartzite bluffs, a 360-acre lake, and challenging hiking trails.
"The views from the top are simply breathtaking and absolutely worth every step."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Rocky, steep trails demand good grip. Avoid disappointment and injury!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on bluff climbs. Essential for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East & West Bluff Trails
Bluff overlooks
Conquer steep, rocky paths for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. A true test and reward!
Devil's Lake Loop Trail
Shoreline
A scenic 3.3-mile hike offering beautiful water views and towering quartzite bluffs. Accessible and rewarding for all.
Sandy Beaches
North and South Shore
Relax, swim, or enjoy a picnic by the 360-acre lake. Perfect for a refreshing break after a hike.
Fall Foliage Views
Bluffs and trails
Witness vibrant autumn colors painting the landscape from the bluffs. A truly magical seasonal spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the View
Gear Up for the Bluffs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Rocky, steep trails demand good grip. Avoid disappointment and injury!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on bluff climbs. Essential for a comfortable hike.
⏰ Arrive Before 9 AM
Secure parking and beat the weekend rush. Weekdays are also a great option.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are perfect for nature photography. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Rocky, steep trails demand good grip. Avoid disappointment and injury!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on bluff climbs. Essential for a comfortable hike.
⏰ Arrive Before 9 AM
Secure parking and beat the weekend rush. Weekdays are also a great option.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are perfect for nature photography. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 Park Pass Required
A state park admission fee applies. Keep your ticket on the dashboard.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devil's Lake State Park for its stunning natural beauty, challenging hikes, and breathtaking views from the bluffs. The lake and beaches offer great recreational opportunities. However, the park's popularity means it can get very crowded, especially on weekends, leading to parking challenges and busy facilities.
"We came...We saw....We hiked....We napped. This place will test your fitness level
Just returned from an incredible day at Devil's Lake State Park, and I can't recommend this place enough! If you're looking for stunning natural beauty and rewarding hiking challenges, this is absolutely the place to go.
The Experience
We decided to tackle the full experience - hiking around the entire lake and climbing to the top of both the East and West Bluffs. What an adventure! The lake loop trail is about 3.3 miles and offers beautiful water views throughout, with the massive quartzite bluffs towering above you as you walk.
The Bluff Climbs
The real highlights were definitely the bluff climbs. Both the East and West Bluff trails are steep and rocky - definitely a workout! - but the payoff is absolutely worth every step. The views from the top are simply breathtaking. You get panoramic vistas of the lake below, the surrounding forests, and on a clear day, you can see for miles across the Wisconsin countryside.
What Made It Special
The scenery: The contrast between the deep blue lake and the ancient quartzite cliffs is stunning
The challenge: The rocky, steep trails really make you feel accomplished when you reach the summit
The views: 360-degree views that are perfect for photos and just taking in the natural beauty
The variety: Each bluff offers a different perspective and hiking experience
Tips for Future Visitors
Wear good hiking boots - the rocky terrain can be challenging. Bring plenty of water, especially if you're doing both bluffs like we did. The trails are well-marked, and there are several route options depending on your fitness level.
This was truly an amazing experience that showcased some of Wisconsin's most beautiful natural scenery. Devil's Lake State Park has definitely earned a spot on our list of favorite hiking destinations. We'll absolutely be back!
Highly recommended for anyone who loves hiking, nature photography, or just wants to experience some of Wisconsin's most spectacular views."
william ball
"Beautiful place! Get to the parking lot by 9 am on a Sunday! And hope you don't need the bathroom until after the cleaning through is done. Blah! The gift shop/concessions open at 10 am. Both beaches became packed very quickly. The hikes are amazing but don't underestimate the climb or over estimate yourself. You don't need to be a pro, but hiking shoes, walking stick and lots of water is highly recommended! I didn't camp, just visited for the day."
Gayle Robb
"What a view? The view from the top of the cliff was absolutely stunning. There is a Trail that takes you all the way to the top where you can see the entire lake. When you enter the park, the admission fee is $16. You can enter and exit the park as long as you have the ticket on the dashboard. You can enjoy the lake using the paddleboard, canoes or kayaks. There is a fee for that and I believe it’s $38 for a ride. There is a visitor center and a nice big store where you can buy merchandise. Best times to go is June and July because the weather is nice and warm. Besides enjoying the lake, you can explore the trails take nature walks or simply sit and read a book by the lake. When I went there a few days back I was surprised to see how clean the area was, and the breathtaking views of the Devil lake. So if you haven’t visited this place yet, I feel you should put this as your bucket list and make sure to visit this place as soon as you get a chance! 😃"
Syeda Aslam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Lake State Park is located in Baraboo, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car. From Madison, take US-12 W for about 45 minutes. From Milwaukee, take I-94 W to US-12 W. The park has multiple entrances and parking areas, but they fill up quickly on busy days.
Public transportation options directly to Devil's Lake State Park are limited. It's primarily a destination for those with personal vehicles. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby town, but check availability beforehand.
Parking lots, especially near popular trailheads and beaches, fill up very early on weekends and holidays. Arriving before 9 AM is highly recommended. If lots are full, you may need to wait or park in overflow areas.
Yes! Just a short drive away, you can explore unique spots like Forevertron, Natural Bridge State Park, Parfreys Glen, and Pewitts Nest. These offer additional natural beauty and quirky attractions.
Yes, if you have your park admission ticket displayed on your dashboard, you can typically enter and exit the park multiple times throughout the day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an admission fee per vehicle, which was around $16 during peak season. This fee allows you to enter and exit the park.
Devil's Lake State Park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, specific facilities like the gift shop and concessions have shorter hours, often opening around 10 AM.
For day use, advance booking is typically not required. However, if you plan to camp, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as campsites fill up quickly.
Wisconsin State Parks offer annual passes that can be purchased, which cover admission to all state parks for a year. This is a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple parks throughout the year.
The admission fee grants you access to the park's grounds, trails, beaches, and picnic areas. It does not typically include rentals for boats or other recreational equipment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The East and West Bluff trails are highly recommended for their challenging climbs and stunning views. The 3.3-mile Devil's Lake Loop Trail offers a more moderate experience with beautiful lake scenery.
Absolutely! Devil's Lake offers sandy beaches for swimming and playing, picnic areas, and easier walking trails. The park is very family-friendly.
Yes, there are sandy beaches on both the north and south shores where you can swim. The water can get busy during warm summer days.
Keep an eye out for various bird species, including eagles soaring overhead. You might also spot deer and other small mammals in the park's diverse habitats.
While many trails are rugged, some areas like the beaches and visitor center are more accessible. Check the park's official website for specific accessibility information on trails and facilities.
🎫 🛶 Activities & Rentals
You can enjoy swimming at the beaches, and rentals are available for paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks. These rentals offer a fantastic way to experience the lake from the water.
Rental fees for watercraft like paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks can vary, but one review mentioned around $38 for a ride. It's best to check with the park's concession stand for current pricing.
Yes, Devil's Lake is renowned for its quartzite cliffs, making it a popular destination for rock climbing and bouldering. Experienced climbers will find challenging routes.
Fishing is permitted in Devil's Lake. Remember to check Wisconsin fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before casting your line.
The park often offers ranger-led programs and nature walks, especially during peak season. Check the visitor center or park's event calendar for schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are concessions and a gift shop that offers snacks, drinks, and some food items. They typically open around 10 AM.
Absolutely! Devil's Lake has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic.
The nearby town of Baraboo offers a variety of restaurants, from casual diners to more upscale options. You can also find local eateries and cafes.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy within the park, especially in designated picnic areas.
If you're visiting in the fall, consider picking up apple cider donuts from nearby farms like Ski-Hi Fruit Farm to enjoy during your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing sand toys for the beach and snacks to keep energy levels up. The visitor center can also provide information on any family-friendly programs or nature activities happening during your visit. Remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the free activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring the beaches. If you plan to visit multiple Wisconsin State Parks throughout the year, consider purchasing an annual state park pass for long-term savings. Camping is also a more budget-friendly accommodation option compared to hotels.
📸 Nature Photographers
Capture the unique geological formations of the quartzite bluffs, the serene beauty of the lake, and the vibrant colors of the fall foliage. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including eagles soaring over the lake, which can make for truly magical shots. Early mornings often yield fewer crowds and softer light, ideal for landscape photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Bluffs: A Rewarding Challenge
For a less strenuous but still scenic experience, the Devil's Lake Loop Trail encircles the lake, offering beautiful water views and glimpses of the bluffs from below. This 3.3-mile trail is more accessible and provides a different perspective of the park's natural beauty. It's a great option for families or those who prefer a gentler walk. Regardless of the trail chosen, proper preparation is key. Bringing ample water, wearing appropriate footwear, and being aware of your physical limits will ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Experiencing the Lake: From Beaches to Boats
For those who prefer to be on the water, rentals for paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks are available. Gliding across the lake provides a unique perspective of the towering bluffs and the park's natural splendor. Fishing is also a popular activity, with opportunities to catch various species. Remember to check Wisconsin's fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before you cast your line.
Seasonal Beauty: Fall Colors and Spring Blooms
Spring brings a different kind of magic, with wildflowers blooming and the landscape awakening from winter. The crisp air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the park's natural resurgence. Each season offers a unique charm, inviting visitors to return and experience Devil's Lake in a new light.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit