Popular is an Understatement!
Calling Devil’s Lake State Park “popular” is like calling the Grand Canyon “a big hole”—a serious understatement! This place is the ultimate playground, with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and trails even the most leisurely strollers can handle. It reminded me of Lincoln Woods State Park in Rhode Island, especially when I was high up on the West Bluff trail, still catching the sounds of beachside fun. Locals flock here like it’s the first sunny day in ages, and with a $16 car fee for non-residents ($13 for residents), that popularity comes at a price. So, if you’re planning a visit, be ready for crowds, long waits, and packed parking lots—especially on weekends and holidays. As Wisconsin’s DNR warns, “Visitors to Devil’s Lake should expect long wait times and busy parking lots from May through October on weekends and holidays. Parking lots often fill before 9 a.m., and access to the park may be temporarily restricted until congestion lessens.”
Pictures: North Entrance | Sign Near the North Shore Concession Area – Popular for Pictures!
Legend has it . . .
Over 14,000 years ago, during the last Ice Age, Devil’s Lake in Wisconsin was born—not out of anything devilish, but thanks to retreating glaciers. These icy giants carved out the stunning lake we see today, cradled by towering bluffs. The Ho-Chunk people, the original caretakers of this land, called it Tee Wakącąk, honoring its deep spiritual significance as a sacred place.
When European settlers showed up, they often misunderstood or overlooked the spiritual importance of such sites. That’s how “Devil’s Lake” came to be, even though names like “Lake of the Two Hills” or “Wild Beauty Lake” would have been a better fit. But the mysterious, slightly spooky name stuck, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
In 1911, Devil’s Lake was officially designated a state park, preserving this natural wonder for all to enjoy. Today, the park covers over 9,200 acres, offering endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re hiking the rugged bluffs, paddling across the crystal-clear waters, or just soaking in the view, remember: this isn’t just a pretty spot. It’s a place steeped in history, shaped by glaciers, revered by the Ho-Chunk, and with a story stretching back over 14,000 years.
Two Fun Filled Days of Adventure
After my morning hike at Parfrey’s Glen Natural Area (right next door to Devil’s Lake State Park), I made my way to the North Entrance of Devil’s Lake for two full days of exploring and adventure. With all the hype around this place, I wanted to take my time and soak it all in, not rush through it. As I mentioned in my Parfrey’s Glen post, I grabbed a parking voucher to redeem at a State Park Office—conveniently, there’s one right at Devil’s Lake. The whole process of getting the annual pass was a breeze. I pulled into a spot, slapped the pass on my rental SUV, and voilà—free entry to any Wisconsin State Park for the rest of 2024, as long as I stick with the same rental car! 🤣🤣🤣
Pictures: Day 1 – West Bluff Trail | Day 2 – East Bluff Trail
Attention Walmart Customers
With the day still young and the park not too crowded, I decided to make a quick run to the local Walmart for some provisions. I’ll admit, Walmart is one of my go-to spots when I’m hiking or road-tripping. That, Aldi, and if I’m lucky, Trader Joe’s—predictable and reasonably priced.
Next up: firewood. Here’s the deal—don’t move firewood! Seriously, buy it where you burn it. There’s even a whole organization and website dedicated to this cause, complete with state-specific regulations: DontMoveFirewood.org. In Wisconsin, if you’re buying uncertified wood, it must originate within 10 miles of the park. The responsible choice? Get your wood from the park or a certified dealer. From my experience, park prices are usually on par with roadside stands. So, do the right thing and buy local!
Paved Trails and City Folk
With provisions and local firewood in hand, I headed back to the park. The parking lot was starting to fill up, though it wasn’t packed yet—probably a bit too early for the city folk, lol. I made a quick detour to the gift shop to grab my obligatory postcards. Yep, I’m that person who still loves sending postcards from my travels—call me old school, but it’s a blast. After stashing my new postcards in the car, I figured I’d take advantage of the decent weather (overcast, with rain lurking in the forecast) and hit the West Bluff Trail. It’s a 1.4-mile trek that takes you to the South Shore.
Starting from the North Shore beach and picnic area, the trail kicks off with a stair workout—210 steps, if you’re counting, before it finally flattens out. As I climbed, I noticed the steps were paved. It didn’t really bother me at first—I just figured they did it to keep the stairs from eroding. But when I got to the top and realized the entire trail was paved, I was a bit thrown off. It’s hard to feel like you’re out in nature when the ground beneath your shoes is as smooth as a city sidewalk. Plus, the downslopes were slippery with even the tiniest hint of moisture. Maybe they paved it to handle the wear and tear of thousands of hikers? Still, it felt like I’d never really left the city.
Pictures: West Bluff Trailhead | West Bluff Trail – it starts out like a real trail
Pictures: The beginning of the 210 Stairs | The Paved Trail
Speaking of city vibes, the closer I got to the bluff, the more I could hear the holiday weekend crowd. The beach and picnic area were buzzing with laughter and music. And just to drive the point home, as I rounded a corner, I bumped into three women, one of whom was blasting tunes on her phone, shattering the natural silence.
Despite the paved trail and city folk, the West Bluff Trail serves up some seriously spectacular views of the lake and surrounding area. You’ll find yourself constantly stopping for photos—just when you think you’ve nailed the perfect shot, a new angle pops up, and you’re snapping away again.
Pictures: A rare moment where I’m not snapping a selfie! I had to give some directions for this shot. The rock is actually hanging off the cliff, but it didn’t quite come out as I pictured. Oh well.
Pictures: Devil’s Lake looking North, then South
What goes up, must come down! As I approached the South Shore, it was time to tackle another set of stairs. Emerging from the trees, I found myself at the start of the Tumbled Rocks Trail (more on that in a bit).
Holy Snake Batman!
I decided to walk along the South Shore before heading back to the North Shore, and boy, am I glad I did! I always try to stay sharp when I’m out hiking, hoping to catch those rare, magical glimpses of nature. As I wandered along the rocky shore, peering through the boulders, my eye landed on a Water Snake lounging on a rock. As I looked closer, I could see the outline of a fish in its belly! Clearly, the little guy was taking a breather to digest its meal. How cool is that? Later, a volunteer at the nature center told me that while these snakes aren’t venomous, they pack a nasty bite that hurts like heck. Good to know if I ever decide to take a dip in the lake!
Pictures: Spotted a Water Snake! | Close-up—check out the fish in its belly on the right
Knowing I had another day to soak up the adventure, I planned to conquer the East Bluff from North Shore to South Shore. I headed back to the Tumbled Rocks Trail, a one-mile trek that snakes along the lake’s edge through a sprawling boulder field. These massive boulders stretch from the water’s edge up to the bluff’s rim, and looking up at them, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the boulder field on Abol Trail at Mt. Katahdin. The trail here is well-carved and easy to navigate—no steep stair-climbing required, which means it’s a bit of a hotspot. Despite the crowd, I decided to kick things up a notch with a trail run back to the North Shore.
Pictures: Tumbled Rock Trailhead – South Shore | View along the Tumbled Rock Trail | Tumbled Rock Trail
So, off I went, running along the Tumbled Rocks Trail. The boulder fields really did give me flashbacks to the Abol Trail on Katahdin. It was a fun run, and for the most part, folks were kind enough to step aside as I approached. Before I knew it, I was back at the North Shore—aka picnic central—and figured it was high time to check into my campsite.
Pictures: The Boulder Field along Tumbled Rock Trail (Pro tip: there’s an easy path through it!)
The Entertainment in People Watching
Devil’s Lake boasts three campgrounds with a total of 423 campsites. Mine was in the Quartzite Campground, right by the North Entrance. Off I went to track down my site and get everything set up. Now, setting up doesn’t take me long because, on this trip, I’m camping in the back of my SUV. All I had to do was unload the firewood, set up my chair, plug in the extension cord, and pop those cool mesh screens onto the back windows. These screens are a game-changer—they slip over the door frame, letting fresh air in while keeping the bugs out. Perfect for a cool breeze as I sleep!
Pictures: My SUV and Camping Set-Up | Mesh Door Screen for a breezy, bug-free night
With some time to spare before sunset (more on that later), I cracked open a beer and grabbed some snacks. Shoutout to my buddy Peter from Australia—check out the beer cozy in the pic! It’s for the female jazz trio Tokyo Groove Jyoshi. Peter’s managing the band, and I got to see them live when they recently played in Vegas. Definitely give them a listen!
Pictures: Camping Vibes wtih Tokyo Groove | Tokyo Groove Jyoshi, (from left) Mimi, Rina, Emi.
As I settled in, I found myself unexpectedly entertained by the arrival of more campers. Watching people maneuver their rigs and park their campers turned into a comedy show. The way folks navigated “helpful” advice while hunting for the perfect spot was a masterclass in patience and communication—especially between men and women! It was downright hilarious to see who took charge during the setup and, honestly, what some people deem essential for a camping trip. Overkill, if you ask me, but hey, to each their own! And, okay, I know—I’ve got an extension cord to charge my phone and work on my laptop, so I guess I’m not entirely off the hook either.
Sunset Spectacles and Greased Lightning
I’d heard the sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular, but finding the perfect spot is part of the adventure. So, I set off on the East Bluff Trail, determined to catch the show. As I climbed up to the bluffs, I couldn’t help but notice a group of kids I’d seen earlier at the boat rental and ice cream stands. They were on a mission, heading toward “their” sunset-watching spot like seasoned pros. It was like a scene straight out of Grease—their carefree vibe, their youthful energy—I half expected them to break into song:
Summer lovin’, had me a blast
Summer lovin’, happened so fast
I met a girl crazy for me
Met a boy cute as can be
Summer days drifting away
To uh, oh those summer nights…
Ah, to be young, with the world at your feet—or at least the best sunset view in the park. I found a couple of decent spots to soak in the sunset, but looking back (after hiking the entire East Bluff Trail the next day), I probably should’ve ventured a bit further down the trail for an even more spectacular view. But hey, you live and learn! In the end, I couldn’t complain—perched on top of the bluff, watching the sun dip below the horizon, was pretty magical.
As the sun finally disappeared below the horizon, I made my way back to my campsite, ready to cap off the day in style. I fired up the campfire, cracked open a cold one, and dug into some well-earned snacks. After a day of hiking and soaking in epic views, there’s no better way to wrap things up than with good food, a warm fire, and a little bit of chill time under the stars.
Those Darn Car Safety Features!
Most campgrounds shut down pretty early, and even have quiet times. Not that you can’t stay up late, but with a big day of hiking ahead, I decided to hit the sack around 10:30 pm. Just as I was getting cozy in my sleeping bag, my car alarm suddenly blared to life. Yep, I was that person. And not just once—the alarm went off three times! So much for a peaceful night. I barely slept, worried it might happen again, and ended up leaving the doors unlocked, which thankfully did the trick. Turns out, if I’d just locked the doors manually instead of using the FOB, the alarm wouldn’t have triggered. Apparently, my car has a safety feature that goes off if it senses weight in the backseat after locking—probably to keep you from accidentally leaving your kid or pet behind. Nice in theory, but not so much for my camping adventure!
Camping Tradition
Isn’t it ironic that people go to bed early when camping but aren’t up at the crack of dawn? I’m not talking 5 AM early—just a solid 8 AM. Come on, folks, seize the day! But enough of my rant; let’s talk morning traditions. For me, it’s all about a dark, cold-brew coffee with a splash of half-and-half. It’s the perfect caffeine fix without needing to fuss over a campfire. Or, I guess I could be like the folks in the camper next to me who just plug in the coffee maker they brought from home.
As I sat there enjoying my coffee, I heard some rustling near the car. Oh great—just what I needed. I’d started a trash bag and planned to toss it on my way to the hike, but those sneaky squirrels got to it first! I know we’re out in nature, but come on! My campsite wasn’t even near the tree line, and yet, these opportunistic little buggers still found their way to my trash. Classic.
Blue Sky Opportunity!
The East Bluff Trailhead was just a half-mile from my campsite, so off I went. The morning greeted me with some blue sky—something I missed the day before—perfect for snapping photos of the lake. Before tackling the East Bluff Trail, I made a quick detour to the lake. I crossed over the train tracks—Wisconsin & Southern has active tracks running along the east side of the lake and between two of the campgrounds. During my stay, I caught a few trains in action, so if you’re exploring near the tracks, keep your eyes peeled!
Then, it was time for the East Bluff Trail, a breezy 1.1-mile hike down to the Balanced Rock Trail. The trail splits early on: to the left is the East Bluff Woods Trail, and to the right is the East Bluff Trail—the same route I took the night before to catch the sunset. I headed right, where you’ll find some of the park’s iconic features. Just like the West Bluff Trail, you start with a series of stairs leading up to the bluff’s top.
Pictures: East Bluff Trailhead | The beginning of East Bluff Trail
Pictures: Trail Split – East Bluff to the right and East Bluff Woods to the left | The trails are well marked
Pictures: Stairs Leading Up East Bluff Trail | The Rock Where I Sat to Catch the Sunset Last Night
First up is Elephant Rock, which has sparked a bit of debate. Officially, it’s called Elephant Rock, but I’m with the Bison camp on this one—it definitely looks more like a Bison. Maybe Wisconsin should put it on the ballot this November and settle the debate once and for all!
As I hiked, I enjoyed the early morning peace—everyone else was either still snoozing or having breakfast. Well, that tranquil vibe didn’t last long. The silence was soon shattered by a family with two kids who thought the forest was their personal playground.
More Views and Oh Yeah – Bugs!
Just like the West Bluff, the East Bluff Trail offers plenty of spots for stunning lake and landscape photos. But unlike yesterday, the bugs were out in force today. I definitely need to up my bug spray game; no matter how much I apply, it feels like they’re on me non-stop. Ugh. Another thing to note: the East Bluff Trail has more varied terrain with some ups and downs, adding a bit more challenge. Nothing too extreme, but worth noting if you’re planning your hike.
Pictures: View of Devil’s Lake from the East Bluff Trail | North Shore Beach with Train Tracks Alongside the Lake
Pictures: Views of Devil’s Lake from the East Bluff Trail
Pictures: Looking towards the North Beach | Some of the Wildlife – A Hawk | Look towards the SOut
Balance Rock or Bust!
When it comes to iconic features of the park, Balance Rock definitely steals the show. But don’t worry about dodging hordes of tourists—this spot has its own set of challenges. I counted 319 steps down, and let’s just say they’re not the easy kind you’d find on the West Bluff Trail. Sure, it gets busy in the summer, but those steps are a pretty effective crowd deterrent. If you’re not too steady on your feet or if hiking isn’t quite your thing, you might want to think twice. However, the trek is definitely worth it—not only for the impressive rock but also for the stunning lake views.
Pictures: Balanced Rock Trail Marker | The Stairs down to Balance Rock
Pictures: I love finding cool mushrooms | Seriously?!! – Trash left behind – Please Leave No Trace! | Climbing those stairs: 319 steps to the top!
From there, I continued along the East Bluff Trail for a bit to check out another park favorite: Devil’s Doorway. To get there, you’ll tackle more stairs, but thankfully, not as many as to Balance Rock. Some websites give a heads-up about the steep and uneven stone steps and the narrow rock ledge with drop-offs, warning that hikers need to be extra cautious. And yes, while that’s crucial advice, it goes without saying that you should always stay alert while hiking. Devil’s Doorway is a cool spot with even more fantastic views of the lake, making the careful trek well worth it.
Pictures: Trail Marker to the Devil’s Doorway | Devil’s Doorway
Picture: Super Cool Tree near the Devil’s Doorway
Let the Real Adventure Begin!
With no strict plan and a park like this, I decided to dive into the notorious Potholes Trail. Named for the “potholes” carved into the rocks by ancient waters, this short but intense 0.3-mile trail is said to take up to 2 hours. It’s steep, packed with stairs, and offers a cool feature—a dramatic split in the rock face. I enjoyed the challenge and met a few adventurers braving the climb up the trail as I made my descent.
Pictures: Potholes Trailhead | The Steep Steps down Potholes Trail
Pictures: Looking Up—The stairs I tackled on the way down | Near the Split in the Rock
The Potholes Trail eventually dead-ends at the Grotto Trail. This one’s a welcome contrast—a wide, easy-going path that winds through the woods at the base of the bluffs. The Grotto Trail is not just easy on the legs but also features hidden gems called Grottos. These are natural cold air sinks where chilly air from beneath the rocky bluff creates refreshing hideouts on sweltering summer days. Sadly, I think I missed these cool spots!
Pictures: Junction of Potholes Trail and Grotto Trail | Looking up Potholes Trail from Grotto Trail
As I strolled leisurely down the Grotto Trail, I had plenty of time to ponder and reflect. One perk of the Potholes Trail is that it’s a bit of a quiet escape with hardly any kids around. The same vibe continues on the Grotto Trail—head away from the beach and easy-access trails, and you’ll find fewer families and more peace. As I made my way, I couldn’t help but mentally prepare for the climb back up to the East Bluff. More stairs are definitely in my future!
Pictures: Along the Grotto Trail—A lush paradise with a totally different feel from the Bluff Trails!
Boulder Field and Rock Climbers
As I rounded the bend on the Grotto Trail, I connected with the CCC Trail and looked up—yep, I was definitely in for a steep climb! The good news? It wasn’t as tough as I’d braced myself for. I got my wish to hike through the boulder field, and while it wasn’t as challenging as Abol Trail in Maine, the stairs carved into the boulders made the ascent a bit easier. The views up here are stunning, and you quickly realize how far you’ve climbed away from the lake below. It’s a great reminder of the expansive beauty of the park.
Pictures: Gazing up at the Boulder Field I’m about to tackle | Where the Grotto Trail and CCC Trail Cross Paths
Pictures: The CCC Trail through the Boulder Field
At the top, I encountered a lively group of climbers, many of whom looked like a school group on an adventure. They were scaling a small cliff with impressive enthusiasm. Major kudos to them—I’m not sure I’d have the guts for that kind of climb! After soaking in the scene and catching my breath, I decided to make my way back along the East Bluff Trail. Instead of retracing my steps, I opted for the East Bluff Woods Trail, which is about a 1.3-mile hike back to where I started this morning. This route is a bit longer but much easier on the ascent to Balanced Rock compared to the East Bluff Trail.
Pictures: Climbers’ Ropes | A View That Shows Just How Far You’ve Hiked from the Lake
Pictures: Trekking Along the East Bluff Woods Trail | Beware: Steep Hill Sign for Mountain Bikers
All in all, it was a fantastic day of hiking and exploring. I made the short trek back to my campsite—a mere 0.6 miles—eager for some well-deserved eats – another camp staple, grilled cheese – and cold drinks. A roaring campfire capped off the perfect end to an adventurous day. There’s nothing like relaxing by the fire after a day of epic trails and breathtaking views!
Top Activities at Devil’s Lake State Park
With 29 miles of scenic trails, two sandy beaches, and endless outdoor adventures, Devil’s Lake State Park is your playground of natural beauty. Pack a picnic, grab a paddle, or even tackle some towering cliffs—this park has it all. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the top activities that make this place a must-visit!
- Hiking and Nature Trails
Lace up those boots! Whether you’re after a heart-pounding trek up the West Bluff or a peaceful stroll along the East Bluff, Devil’s Lake has trails for every kind of hiker. Expect jaw-dropping views, especially when the fall colors hit—perfect for that Insta-worthy shot! - Water Activities
Dive into the fun with a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rental right at the lake. Whether you’re paddling across the glassy waters or fishing for bass, this 360-acre lake is your perfect summer escape. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen—this is where sun-soaked memories are made! - Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Got a taste for adventure? The quartzite cliffs here are calling your name! With some peaks towering over 500 feet, it’s a climber’s paradise. New to climbing? No worries! Local outfitters offer rock climbing and bouldering lessons, so you can conquer those heights like a pro. - Wildlife Watching
Bring your binoculars because Devil’s Lake is a wildlife wonderland! Spot white-tailed deer prancing through the woods or keep your eyes peeled for majestic eagles soaring overhead. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just love critters, the park’s diverse habitats have something wild to offer. - Camping Under the Stars
End your day the right way—under a blanket of stars! Set up camp and enjoy a night filled with s’mores, stories, and stargazing. With campsites ranging from rustic to RV-ready, there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy the park’s peaceful nighttime vibes
The Devil’s Lake Wrap-Up
So, Devil’s Lake—what a trip! If you’re into stunning views, a mix of laid-back and challenging trails, and some serious people-watching (I’m looking at you, campers), then this park should be on your list. But if I’m honest, it probably won’t top my all-time favorites. Sure, it’s got everything you need for a great adventure, but the paved trails and crowded hotspots made it feel a bit more like a city escape than a true nature getaway. Still, the lake’s beauty and those epic bluffs are worth the hike—just maybe on a quieter day. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, scrambling up rocks, kayaking, or sun-bathing on the beach, Devil’s Lake has its own unique charm. Just don’t forget to pack your sense of humor and a healthy dose of patience—trust me, you’ll need both!
Dates of Visit: 7 & 8 July, 2024
