Devil’s Lake State Park is one of the most visited Wisconsin State Parks, with nearly 3 million visitors each year. Located just outside the small town of Baraboo in Sauk County, this beautiful natural area is known for its dramatic quartzite bluffs, 29 miles of hiking trails, and the bright blue lake at the center of the park. A visit to Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin in spring offers the perfect chance to experience blooming wildflowers along the trails, crisp sunny days, and fewer visitors before the busy summer crowds arrive.
Heading to this state park is always on the list of the best things to do in Wisconsin. Devil’s Lake State Park offers an incredible variety of outdoor activities for all skill levels. From easy lakeside strolls to intense steep climbs to gentle paddles on the water, and relaxing on the shoreline, there’s always a reason to add this park to your vacation itinerary. A great place to start is the Visitor’s Center for Devil’s Lake trail maps, and the rangers can answer any important FAQs.
While there are camping options at the Devil’s Lake Campground, many visitors to the area would prefer a warm bed after a day of exploring the best hiking trails or boating on the lake. For that, you’ll find a lovely selection of locally-owned Inns and B&Bs in the area that are perfect for your weekend getaways in Wisconsin. There are so many cozy and comfortable Bed and Breakfasts across the Midwest, and it really is a nice change from a traditional hotel stay. If you’re planning on beating the crowds at Devil’s Lake and visiting in the spring, be sure to book your lodging today.
Plan Your Adventure at Devil’s Lake State Park
The landscape around Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin has a history that stretches back thousands of years. The lake itself was formed near the end of the last Ice Age, when glaciers reshaped the Baraboo Hills and blocked an ancient river gorge, leaving a clear lake surrounded by towering quartzite bluffs. The trails at Devil’s Lake are a part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Long before the park was established, Native peoples, including the Ho Chunk, lived in the area and considered the lake sacred. By the late 1800s, the scenic area had become a popular vacation destination with resorts and summer homes, and in 1911, the land was officially protected as Devil’s Lake State Park, now one of the most visited natural destinations in Wisconsin.
Hiking is one of the main reasons people visit Devil’s Lake State Park, and the park offers some of the most scenic trails in all of Wisconsin State Parks. With more than 29 miles of trails, hikers can explore everything from quiet wooded paths to challenging climbs that lead to incredible views above Devils Lake, Wisconsin. The trail system circles the lake and winds through the Baraboo Hills, allowing visitors to experience forests, rocky bluffs, and shoreline landscapes all within a single day.
Two of the most popular routes are the East Bluff Trail and West Bluff Trail, both of which climb high above the lake and reward hikers with sweeping views of the water and surrounding countryside. These trails include stone stairways, rocky sections, and lookout points, making the climb well worth the effort. Along the way, hikers often stop at well-known viewpoints such as Balanced Rock and Devil’s Doorway, two of the park’s most photographed rock formations.
Rock climbing and bouldering are two of the most distinctive activities at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin, drawing climbers from across the Midwest to experience the park’s famous quartzite bluffs. The cliffs that rise above Devils Lake, Wisconsin, offer hundreds of established climbing routes, ranging from beginner-friendly climbs to challenging technical routes that attract experienced climbers.
Boating on the lake is one of the best things to do at Devil’s Lake. From the water, once the weather warms up, visitors will have a chance to see the towering bluffs from below. Canoes and kayaks are available to rent near the lake. Paddling across the calm water offers a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery while exploring one of the most beautiful lakes in the Wisconsin State Parks system.
Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are other highlights of a spring visit. Bald eagles, hawks, and migrating birds are frequently seen soaring above the cliffs, while deer and other wildlife are often spotted along the wooded trails. The combination of forests, rocky bluffs, wetlands, and open water creates one of the most diverse landscapes found in Wisconsin State Parks.
Whether you spend the day hiking the bluffs, paddling across the lake, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, it is easy to see why so many visitors return year after year. After exploring the park, it is also worth taking time to discover the nearby town of Baraboo. Located just minutes away, the town offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, and cultural sites that pair perfectly with a day at Devil’s Lake State Park.
Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin: More Things to Do in Baraboo
If you have time after exploring Devil’s Lake State Park, the nearby town of Baraboo offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, and experiences that make the area worth exploring. Here are several popular things to do in Baraboo during your visit.
- Baraboo is the historic home of the Ringling Brothers Circus, and the Circus World Museum brings that history to life, reopening in the spring. Visitors can see beautifully restored circus wagons, learn about the golden age of traveling circuses, and explore interactive exhibits that celebrate this unique piece of American history.
- Located along the Baraboo River, Driftless Glen Distillery is known for producing award-winning whiskey, bourbon, and gin. The distillery also features a popular restaurant where visitors can enjoy craft cocktails and a meal while overlooking the scenic river.
- Al. Ringling Brewing Company honors Baraboo’s brewing heritage and its connection to the Ringling family. Visitors can sample locally crafted beers in a welcoming taproom that blends history with modern brewing traditions.
- The Ringling House Bed and Breakfast offers visitors a chance to step inside one of Baraboo’s historic homes connected to the famous circus family. Guided tours share stories about the Ringlings and the role Baraboo played in the early days of the circus.
- Just a short drive from downtown, Balanced Rock Winery offers beautiful vineyard views and a relaxed tasting experience. Guests can sample regional wines while enjoying the rolling countryside that surrounds Baraboo.
- Located near the entrance to Devil’s Lake State Park, Tumbled Rock Kitchen and Brewery is a favorite stop for visitors after a day outdoors. The restaurant serves craft beer and creative comfort food, with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Only minutes from Devils Lake, Wisconsin, Mirror Lake State Park offers a quieter outdoor setting with wooded trails, sandstone cliffs, and calm waters that are perfect for kayaking or canoeing. It is a great addition to any visit for those who want to experience more of Wisconsin State Parks’ natural beauty.
With so many nearby attractions, it is easy to combine Devil’s Lake State Park with multiple days of exploring the many things to do in Baraboo, making the region an excellent destination for a weekend getaway in Wisconsin. Be sure to secure your lodging at one of the local Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin, known for kind service, comfortable guest rooms, delightful morning meals, and often an intriguing history. Start planning and book your stay today!
