Best Camping in and near Devil's Lake State Park

99% (60 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Devil's Lake State Park adventure.

Explore the wilderness or spend time on the lake at Wisconsin’s most popular state park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Devil's Lake State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Devil's Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Devil's Lake State Park

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Beaver Point Cabin

1 site · Lodging90 acres · Belleville, WI

The cabin is an off-grid, 12'X20' insulated structure, with a 7'X8' loft and a 12'X6' screened covered porch/deck. That overlooks a small stream and a cattail marsh. It is in the center of our 90 acres and is very private but near to some rural houses, only our house is (barely) visible in winter and you might see some lights of one other neighbor when the leaves are off the trees. We are 1 and a half miles from the village of Belleville and 5 miles from New Glarus. The Badger State Trail runs across the western edge of our property. It connects with the Sugar River State Trail 8 miles away. Near by New Glarus has many shops, restaurants, Baily's Run winery and the famous New Glarus Brewery (tours daily). Everything can be easily reached by bike or, in season, snowmobile. The marsh is a haven for all sorts of birds and wildlife. Spring brings an abundance of winged migrators and returning residents. There are: sand hill cranes, red wing blackbirds, a number of ducks; buffleheads, mergansers, woodducks, blue winged teal and shovelers just to name a few. The American woodcock can be heard overhead most spring mornings and evenings. The spring peepers (small frogs) are a symphony on their own and they continue into early summer. The woods has many spring flowers and the fall colors are wonderful. In summer there are many song birds like: bluebirds, finches, orioles, humming birds, cedar wax wings, robins, cardinals and herons. Sitting on the screened in deck one can hear a kaleidoscope of bird songs and activity. And an abundance of fireflies in later May through late July and then some. The cabin is off-grid, what that means is: there is NO RUNNING WATER in the cabin and only a chemical toilet (port-a-potty). A limited amount of water is supplied for drinking and washing. There is a sink with a drain in the cabin but no bathroom or refrigerator so bring a cooler. Very limited electricity. There is basic LED lighting and you will be able to charge your phones/devices. The power is supplied from batteries/inverter charged by solar panels on the roof. There are LED lights and a coffee maker. There is NO air conditioning but excellent ventilation and a small, cozy wood stove for heat. If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with a wood stove, it may not be wise to stay here in the winter heating season, but we can show most people how to use the stove safely. This is still considered "camping" so be prepared to bring camping gear: your own pillows, sleeping bag, food, drinks, cups, plates, cooking utensils etc. There are carryout options a short drive away. The only thing you won't need is a tent, the cabin is very cozy, warm on the cold days and cool on the warm ones and there is a picnic table, lawn chairs and a gas grill with a side burner. There are a few spots around the cabin for tents if you have additional friends staying. There is an additional charge for additional guests (over 2) but please be advised: any loud "parties" or disturbances and you will be asked to leave. This is a place to enjoy nature and quiet time. To get away from it all. No extra charge for children 12 or under. Insects are a part of the woods environment, if you're afraid of bugs this may not be the right fit for you. We rarely have any real issues, so we're reluctant to use toxic chemicals to kill most (normal) bugs. Normal bug repellent is about all that is necessary. Why we have this cabin; It's a way to share this special place that, judging from the artifacts found here has been a camping area for thousands of years. We want to let others enjoy the seasons; the return of the migrating birds, the spring peepers in the marsh, the fall colors, the silence of a winter day in the woods and the warmth of a wood stove. (many people have found the stove to be their favorite feature) The cabin gives you a front row seat in the middle of, comparatively, pristine nature. Campers will have access to our fine trails for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and biking. (we would allow a snowmobile from the State trail to the cabin). All campers take note: 1. Please do your best to arrive/check in before dark! The cabin is dark; no yard lights, no streetlights, and if it isn’t a moonlit night, it IS very dark. Some of you are not used to real darkness. We provide some flashlights and headlamps (if you forgot yours) and there are LED lights in the cabin we keep charged for you. Camping headlamps are great for cooking, using the port-a-potty and finding your way around, etc. Bring yours or you can borrow ours, just ask. 2. Take safety precautions with the wood stove and learn how to use it correctly. The only source of heat in the cabin is a small, very nice wood stove. Those without any experience with using wood for heat are advised not to stay at the cabin during the cold season. Those that are eager to learn--we can help you, but safety is very important and you must at least have some basic skills to handle wood heat: using a propane torch, using kindling, splitting wood, operating the stove airflow. 3. Campfires: Campfire wood can be purchased for a reasonable price @$10 for a tote, or @$20 for a large pot/container. We do allow people to bring their own if they are coming from less that 50 miles away. Some exceptions do apply. 4. It has been very enjoyable meeting the many campers. Everyone has been very well prepared and it has been a pleasure seeing them have fun. We especially have enjoyed the families with young children and people with their dog(s). All have been very well behaved and very enthusiastic. 5 Dogs are welcome, but please let us know if your dog does not get along well with other dogs, so we can let others know. We have a young golden retriever that is very friendly and does very well with other dogs, kids and all people. If your dog doesn't get along with others (dogs or people) please let us know in advance, so we can warn others and please, for safety, keep them on a leash. Your hosts, Dan and Anne

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Camp Cedar Hills

41 sites · RVs, Tents800 acres · Mazomanie, WI

Cedar Hills is a wonderful private campground located on a ridge above 800 acres of stunning DNR land and only a couple minutes drive from historic Sauk City, WI and its many great restaurants. Enjoy great views and 2 miles of hiking trails, personal fire pits and private campsites with access to large pavilion and many communal spaces. Founded in 1979 Cedar Hills has a long history and large community of regulars some of whom have maintained and added to their sites for decades, making this place truly a labor of love. Large sections of this campground are clothing optional, and the whole campsite is strictly 18 and above. Cedar Hills is LGBTQ friendly. Located on a ridge above 800 acres of stunning DNR land and only a couple minutes drive from Sauk City WI and 150 miles from Chicago. Enjoy great views and 2 miles of hiking trails, personal fire pits and private campsites with access to large pavilion. Winter campers may enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing and access with your snow machine Founded in 1979 Cedar Hills has a long history and large community of regulars some of whom have maintained and added to their sites for decades, making this place truly a labor of love. Large sections of this campground are clothing optional, and the whole campsite is strictly 18 and above and LGBTQ friendly. Come and visit our 40 sites located on a breathtaking ridgeline with stunning views of the valleys below.

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Healing Hills

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Hillsboro, WI

We are nestled into a hillside in Wisconsin's Driftless and amish country. Surrounded by beautiful ridges, valleys and trout streams, campers can enjoy hiking trails throughout our land, nearby streams and rivers for fishing and paddling, amish markets, famous bike trails, Wildcat Mountain and the Kickapoo Reserve. Or sit back and relax in one of our private camp sites and fall asleep under endless stars while coyotes lull you off to sleep.

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The Hill Family Camping

15 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Wonewoc, WI

The Hill is a private forested camp area that was originally made for a large group of friend's annual party. Spanning 4 acres on top, there is space for campers including 30 amp plug-ins, tents, and has buildings on-site for groups if needed. We also an add on of a simple rental glamper we call the Sugar Shack (listed as an Extra). The variety of trees, open space, and a group areas including fire pit, horseshoes/bags, and walking paths make the Hill a beloved getaway. Elroy/Sparta trail is 4 miles away that you can reach on the 400 trail just 1.2 miles from Hill. Golf course in town, paddle on Baraboo, fish/swim at Dutch Hollow, or hike at Wildcat --all within 15 miles.

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SKILLET CREEK CAMPGROUND

3 sites · Tents70 acres · Baraboo, WI

Skillet Creek Campground was previously Wheeler's Campground, located in Baraboo. It has the state park feel, large sites, wooded areas, hiking trails, and activities for the the kids. Learn more about this land: Peaceful and scenic area nestled in 70 acres of wooded forest. Spacious sites, hiking, biking, fishing pod, new swimming pond, large barn game room, gaga ball pit, cross net, jumping pad, bike rentals, 4 wheelcart rental, clean bathrooms. Full hookup sites and privative camping sites. Located 1 mile from Devil's lake in Baraboo, Wi. Enjoy nearby breweries, zoo, circus world museum.

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Terra Growers Organic Farm

13 sites · Tents80 acres · Waunakee, WI

Terra Growers is a 100 year-old organic family farm in Springfield WI near Waunakee. We raise free-range chickens (for eggs), grow an extensive variety of vegetables, tend to several fruit orchards, and grow a variety of berries. Terra Growers also has a year-round on-farm store, events open to the public, multiple campsites for rent, as well as extensive volunteer opportunities.

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The Heifer Pasture

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Cross Plains, WI

Located on a hill side pasture on the properties back forty along the Ice Age Trail. This fenced off area within the pasture includes a small pond, walking trails, forest and prairie areas. There is a “feed shed” that is available to use (generator on site for electricity)otherwise just pitch a tent. Completely remote from any other houses.

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Echo Valley Farm

4 sites · Lodging46 acres · Ontario, WI

See the Milky Way on 46 acres of sustainably cared for land located in beautiful Driftless Wisconsin. Adjacent to Wild Cat Mountain State Park and near the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. We are a working farm with sheep, mules, chickens, ducks, multiple gardens and an old apple orchard. Our onsite bakery has seasonal offerings and more. Our twenty year effort to create a regenerative and sustainable farm allows us to offer our unique space and cabins for enjoyment and for learning.

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Maple Street Retreat

1 site · RV1 acre · Oxford, WI

Beautiful private campsite located right up the street from Goose lake beach and boat landing. Get ready to pack your days with lake time goodness of all sorts! Level lot that is easy to back into. Goose lake is a 81 acre lake with a maximum depth of 22 feet. It offers great swimming, fishing and kayaking as well as wake hours from 11-5:30. We have a great campfire area and picnic table on site. The campsite is located 25 minutes from Wisconsin Dells. This is an RV/camper site with electric hookup available no water or sewer.

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Breakaway Stables

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Mount Horeb, WI

Chasing a dream, took a leap of faith and made an offer and to our surprise it was accepted. Learn more about this land:Breakaway from it all, grab your gear, and head to Breakaway Stables where you will experience a beautiful panoramic view of Blue Mounds State Park located in the Driftless Area of southern WI. Enjoy being in the presence of equine energy from near or far depending on your comfort level. We offer a central location to pitch a tent in the middle of numerous possibilities for short trips that are sure to lead you to fun and adventure. Not quite comfortable with total isolation? We live close by to lend a helping hand with camp setup, directions, information about the surrounding area, and anything else in between. Make memories that will last a lifetime. This will be a trip you will want to make a tradition.

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Captain Morgan's Pirate Ship

5 sites · Lodging10 acres · Lyndon Station, WI

Pirate Ship Adventure Cabin offers a unique glamping experience where the thrill of pirate lore meets the comfort of modern luxury. It's a family-friendly retreat where memories are made, and imaginations set sail on a sea of endless possibilities. Come aboard Captain Morgan's ship and enjoy your glamping experience!

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The Mother-In-Law’s Pad

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Richland Center, WI

This is a cabin based, short-term rental property with a single, well-shaded, RV/Motorhome pad. Located in a rural area this is a great quiet camping spot best for a motorhome or camper under 40’. The location is quiet with expansive views of a crop farming valley with electric and water hookups and free access to a Finnish steam sauna and laundry.

The best camping near Devil's Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Wisconsin's most visited state park, Devil's Lake offers all sorts of opportunities for experiencing the great outdoors, from educational kids’ programs at the nature center to renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboat, or standup paddleboard to explore the 360-acre lake. Hiking opportunities abound too—the East Bluff Trail is a great choice to see some of the park's characteristically pink-and-purple quartzite bluffs. Devil’s Lake is also a good camping spot, with hundreds of sites spread over three campgrounds, many with hookups. The aptly named Ice Age Campground is open for winter camping for those who don’t mind a little snow.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RVs: Quartzite Campground has large sites ideal for RV camping, plus showers and a dump station.
Best for families: Northern Lights Campground offers open grassy areas, plus a shower building, flush toilets, and a playground.
Best for convening with nature: Ice Age Campground offers a mix of electric and non-electric sites, some in a pine grove.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve your campsite online or over the phone through Wisconsin State Parks.
Same-day camping reservations are available from May through October with waived reservation fees.
All campsites are reservable and released for reservation 11 months in advance.
If you can't secure one of the 423 sites in the three main campgrounds, look into reserving one of the park's nine group campsites. Alternatively, consider a Hipcamp in the area to visit Devil’s Lake for the day. Plenty of privately operated options exist in Baraboo, a 10-minute drive away.

When to go

Devil’s Lake is open year-round and at its busiest in summer, when it draws droves of campers with hiking, biking, rock climbing, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Winter activities include sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There are also ranger-led programs and hikes, particularly from spring through fall. Quartzite Campground remains open in winter months, offering winterized restrooms and running water plus electrical hookup sites.

Know before you go

Seasonal concession stores on both the north shore and south shore and at the Ice Age Campground sell basic groceries and supplies. They’re open in summer and on select spring and fall weekends.
You’re welcome to gather firewood in the forest (although you can't chop or pull wood from trees). You can also purchase bundles at the camp stores.
Cell phone service is spotty at best in the park.
The park is pet-friendly, but dogs must remain on a leash no longer than eight feet in length.
Running water facilities, including showers, are available from mid-April through mid-October.