Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is the state’s most-visited park, welcoming nearly 3 million visitors each year. Spanning over 10,000 acres, it’s part of more than 27,000 acres of public recreational land in Sauk County. Located on ancestral Ho-Chunk land—known as Tee Wakącąk (Sacred Lake)—the park is also home to ancient effigy mounds that continue to hold deep cultural significance. Devils Lake State Park is less than an hour north of Madison! The park operates from 6 am to 11pm, seven days a week.
Devils Lake State Park Location:
S5975 Park Road
Baraboo, WI 53913
*Vehicle Admission Sticker or Trail Pass Required
Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is a top destination for outdoor lovers. With more than 29 miles of scenic hiking trails—including a designated mountain biking route—and two spacious sandy beaches, it’s perfect for adventure and relaxation alike. Visitors can enjoy picnicking at shaded areas equipped with charcoal grills or rent a kayak, canoe, paddleboat, or stand-up paddleboard from on-site concessions. For those seeking a thrill, local outfitters also offer rock climbing and bouldering instruction for all skill levels.
Devil’s Doorway Loop Trail
This short loop trail branches off from the East Bluff Trail and descends steep, uneven stone steps to the striking Devil’s Doorway rock formation. The loop is about half a mile long and typically takes around 15 minutes to hike. You can access this trail from the East Bluff Trail, which connects to East Bluff Woods, CCC, Potholes, and Balanced Rock trails.
Swimming at Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park features two spacious sandy beaches, each equipped with a bathhouse, located on the north and south shores of the lake. The water typically stays at a comfortable swimming temperature from mid-June through late September.
Scattered throughout the park are picnic areas with grills and children’s play zones, complete with climbing gyms and slides, making it a perfect spot for family fun.
Pet friendly areas-check them out here.
Canoeing, Kayaking & SUPs
Devil’s Lake State Park is a popular place for rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up boards. The lake is clear and the water is of good quality. There is a boat launch on both the north and south ends of the lake. Rentals are available at the concession stands.
Camping at Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park is a favorite spot for campers, offering three distinct campgrounds with a total of 423 sites—each able to accommodate families of up to six. Each campground has its own unique charm, making them popular with returning visitors year after year.
Given the park’s high demand, it’s important to plan ahead and reserve your campsite or lodging well in advance.
For larger gatherings, the park also features nine group campsites on the south shore, with space for up to 240 campers.
For camp fees, maps, rules and reservations – click here.
