Devil’s Lake State Park — Baraboo, Wisconsin

Quick Facts

• Location: Baraboo, Wisconsin (Sauk County)
• Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
• Beach Type: Freshwater public beach (Devil’s Lake)
• Sand Type: Sandy beaches with some gravel areas
• Water Conditions: Calm lake water (warms in summer)
• Best For: Swimming, hiking, families, scenic outdoor experiences
• Best Time to Visit: June–September
• Beach Hours: 6 AM–11 PM (year-round park hours)
• Pet Policy: Dogs not allowed on designated swimming beaches
• Beach Cleanliness: Well maintained
• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.8
• Pricing: State park vehicle admission required
• Parking: Large designated parking areas (fills quickly in summer)
• Accessibility: Good near main beach areas
• Crowd Level: High during peak season

Overview

Devil’s Lake State Park is the most visited state park in Wisconsin, known for its dramatic 500-foot quartzite bluffs surrounding a clear glacial lake.

The park features two large sandy beaches—one on the north shore and one on the south—making it one of the best inland beach destinations in the Midwest. It combines swimming, hiking, and scenic landscapes into a single, highly popular outdoor experience.

Amenities & Access

• Two large sandy beaches (north and south shore)
• Bathhouses with restrooms and changing areas
• Picnic areas with grills and shelters
• Concessions and beach supplies available
• Boat rentals (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards)
• Playground and open recreation areas

Safety & Conditions

Conditions are generally calm but require awareness.

• No lifeguards on duty
• Water is clear and typically comfortable in summer
• Swim only in designated areas
• Occasional water quality advisories may occur

Things to Do

• Swimming at sandy beaches
• Hiking scenic bluff trails
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Picnicking and relaxing
• Wildlife viewing and photography
• Exploring rock formations and viewpoints

Nearby Attractions

• Devil’s Doorway rock formation
• Balanced Rock
• Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area
• Baraboo Hills scenic region
• Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Where to Stay

• Campgrounds within the park
• Cabins and group campsites
• Hotels in Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells
• Nearby vacation rentals

Tips & Rules

• Arrive early — parking fills quickly in summer
• Bring water and sun protection
• Wear proper footwear for hiking trails
• Follow all park and swimming rules
• Check conditions before visiting

Best Time of Day to Visit

Morning for fewer crowds or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and scenic views.

Who It’s Best For

• Families
• Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts
• Photographers
• Day-trippers and campers

Bottom Line

Devil’s Lake State Park offers one of the best freshwater beach experiences in the Midwest, combining sandy swimming beaches with dramatic natural scenery and extensive outdoor recreation.