Devils Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park: Wisconsin’s Most Popular Natural Playground
Rising 500 feet above a spring-fed lake in central Wisconsin, the ancient quartzite bluffs of Devil’s Lake State Park create a landscape that looks nothing like the Midwest most people imagine. With 1,600+ rock climbing routes, nearly 30 miles of hiking trails including a section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, two sandy swimming beaches, and 423 campsites, Devil’s Lake draws 3 million visitors annually — making it the busiest state park in Wisconsin and one of the most visited in the country.
The geology tells an extraordinary story. The Baraboo Range quartzite is 1.6 billion years old — among the oldest exposed rock on Earth. Over millennia, glaciers dammed the ancient Devil’s River, creating the 360-acre lake that sits between the East and West Bluffs today. Rock formations like Balanced Rock and Devil’s Doorway have become icons of Wisconsin’s outdoor heritage.
Park Facts at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Baraboo, Sauk County, WI (S3975 Park Rd) |
| 📐 Park Size | 9,217 acres |
| 🏔️ Bluffs | 500 ft quartzite (1.6 billion years old) |
| 🧗 Climbing | 1,600+ trad routes on East & West Bluffs |
| 🥾 Trails | 29 miles (incl. Ice Age NST) |
| 🏊 Beaches | North Shore & South Shore (+ dog beach) |
| 🏕️ Camping | 423 sites + 9 group sites (460 capacity) |
| 💰 Entry | WI State Park Vehicle Sticker required |
| 🕐 Hours | 6 AM – 11 PM daily, year-round |
| 📞 Phone | (608) 356-8301 |
Hiking the Bluffs
| Trail | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| East Bluff Trail | 1.7 mi | Balanced Rock, Devil’s Doorway, best panoramas |
| West Bluff Trail | 1.4 mi | Less crowded, stunning lake views |
| Tumbled Rocks Trail | 1.0 mi | Easy/paved lakeshore path, accessible |
| Ice Age NST | Varies | National trail through Baraboo Range |
| CCC Trail | 2.5 mi | Depression-era stone structures |
Rock Climbing
Devil’s Lake is the premier rock climbing destination in the Midwest, with over 1,600 established routes on the quartzite bluffs. All climbing is traditional (trad) — there are no bolted routes, and climbers place their own protection. Routes range from beginner-friendly slabs to expert-level cracks and overhangs. The East Rampart on the East Bluff is the most popular area. Guided climbing and instruction are available from local outfitters.
Swimming and Beaches
Devil’s Lake has two large sandy swimming beaches — North Shore and South Shore. The spring-fed lake stays clear and cool, perfect for swimming on hot summer days. A dog-friendly beach is available on the south shore. No lifeguards on duty — swim at your own risk. Non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks) are permitted on the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Devil’s Lake so popular?
Devil’s Lake draws 3 million visitors annually because it combines dramatic 500-foot quartzite bluffs — some of the oldest exposed rock on Earth (1.6 billion years) — with a beautiful spring-fed lake, sandy beaches, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, and the Midwest’s best rock climbing. Its location near Madison and the Wisconsin Dells makes it easily accessible. Reservation-required camping fills months in advance.
Can beginners rock climb at Devil’s Lake?
Yes — Devil’s Lake has routes for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly slab climbs to advanced cracks and overhangs. However, all climbing is traditional (trad), meaning there are no bolted sport routes. Beginners should hire a guide or take instruction from local outfitters. The park does not maintain climbing-specific infrastructure. Helmets and proper gear are essential.
When should I reserve camping at Devil’s Lake?
Reserve as early as possible — sites open 11 months in advance and weekends from May through October fill up quickly. Midweek stays are easier to get. The park has 423 sites across three campgrounds plus nine group sites for up to 460 campers. For the best availability, book your dates the day they open on the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system.
