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Devil's Lake State Park wilderness guide
State Park · WI

Devil's Lake State Park

Devil's Lake State Park is Wisconsin's largest and most visited state park, renowned for its stunning quartzite bluffs and picturesque lake. It's a premier destination for hiking, climbing, and outdoor recreation year-round.

State Park9,2174+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

9,217

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Devil's Lake State Park

Devil's Lake State Park is Wisconsin's largest and most visited state park, renowned for its stunning quartzite bluffs and picturesque lake. It's a premier destination for hiking, climbing, and outdoor recreation year-round.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Devil's Lake State Park, located near Baraboo, Wisconsin, covers an expansive 9,217 acres. The park is characterized by its impressive quartzite bluffs, which rise up to 500 feet above the 360-acre Devil's Lake, formed by glacier activity thousands of years ago. The park is a geological gem and offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, camping, and water sports. The area is rich in natural beauty and ecological diversity, featuring oak forests, talus cliffs, and vibrant wildflower patches. Indigenous peoples visited this area for centuries, and the park's name derives from translations of Native American legends related to the lake. Visitors today are drawn to its natural and cultural history, as well as its expansive recreational opportunities. Lush landscapes attract about three million visitors each year, making it a vital hub for outdoor enthusiasts in the Midwest.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Devil's Lake State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking Adventures on West Bluff Trailhead★ 8.2⌖ 0 miHiking
West Bluff Trailhead

Hiking Adventures on West Bluff Trailhead

Explore the West Bluff Trailhead in Baraboo, WI. Known for its quartzite bluffs and scenic views over Devil's Lake, this area suits adventurous hikers and climbers. Popular during summer, it offers challenging terrain and wildlife watching opportunities.

HikingView Details→
Devils Lake State Park in Wisconsin★ 8.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Wisconsin

Devils Lake State Park in Wisconsin

Explore Devil's Lake State Park in Baraboo, WI, with over 29 miles of trails and activities like hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking. The park is renowned for its scenic quartzite bluffs and vibrant autumn colors. Accessible via drive-in with crowded summers, it's best visited in the fall.

HikingView Details→
Discover the Beauty of Devil's Lake⌖ 1 miHiking
Devil's Lake State Park

Discover the Beauty of Devil's Lake

Explore the stunning landscapes of Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo, WI. Discover challenging hikes on East and West Bluff Trails, rock climbing adventure spots, and serene lake activities. Ideal for adventure seekers, its geological formations and clear waters offer unforgettable outdoor experiences.

HikingView Details→
The Enigmatic Balance of Nature at Devil's Lake★ 8.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Balanced Rock

The Enigmatic Balance of Nature at Devil's Lake

Explore Balanced Rock in Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo, WI. This moderate hiking trail offers rock climbing and bird watching opportunities, with stunning views. Best visited in spring and fall for comfortable weather and vibrant foliage.

HikingView Details→
Discover the Majestic East Bluff Trailhead★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
East Bluff Trailhead

Discover the Majestic East Bluff Trailhead

Explore East Bluff Trailhead in Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, WI. Known for dramatic quartzite cliffs and rich history, perfect for hiking and climbing. Busy in summer with challenging climbs offering breathtaking views.

HikingView Details→
Rock Formations & Scenic Views at Devil's Doorway★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
Devil's Doorway Loop Trailhead

Rock Formations & Scenic Views at Devil's Doorway

Explore Devil's Doorway Loop Trailhead near Baraboo, WI. Enjoy a moderate hike offering panoramic views and unique geological formations. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and photographers alike in spring and fall.

HikingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Balanced Rock Trail, offering views of a striking rock formation perched precariously on the bluffs✦ Rare species habitat, including Effigy Mounds and the endangered red-shouldered hawk✦ Devil's Doorway, a natural arch made of ancient quartzite and a popular subject for photography✦ The Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which runs through the park and presents a unique way to experience the region’s glacial history
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Devil's Lake State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Devil's Lake State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

State park admission sticker required for vehicle entry.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Devil's Lake State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Quartzite Campground

Located near the south shore, great for accessing hiking trails and lakefront activities.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Ice Age Campground

Situated near the north shore with proximity to the Visitor Center and expansive trail access.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Devil's Lake State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Baraboo
⌖ 3.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baraboo, Wisconsin

An inviting destination that offers diverse outdoor experiences amidst striking natural beauty and parklands.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Merrimac
⌖ 6.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merrimac, Wisconsin

A tranquil river town offering serene outdoor getaways with access to natural beauty and waterside activities.

Spring and AutumnExplore Town
North Freedom
⌖ 7.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Freedom, Wisconsin

A quaint village with a rich history, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures in Wisconsin's scenic landscape.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Prairie du Sac
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin

A tranquil riverside town offering relaxing water sports, accessible hiking and biking trails, plus winter activities in nearby parks, perfect for nature lovers and casual adventurers.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowshoeingExplore Town
Rock Springs
⌖ 9.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wisconsin

A tranquil village that serves as a gateway for exploring the pastoral landscapes and natural wonders of Sauk County.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Sauk City
⌖ 10.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sauk City, Wisconsin

A riverside small town offering easy access to scenic paddling, flatland biking, and nearby natural preserves with a welcoming Midwest charm.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Devil's Lake State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.