Devil’s Lake State Park has 3 public campgrounds to handle over 3 million visitors a year. This means it’s packed. I made reservations to be sure and get a spot. I was surprised to find many non-electric sites empty. Other Dyrt Rangers suggested we come here so I’m following their advice. 

The local Ho-Chunk named the lake, Tawacunchukdah, which roughly translates into “Spirit or Holy” Lake. Some translation errors to the early trappers and the name Devil’s Lake caught on (it also markets better with a more sinister name). 

There are requirements for various passes to use the state park and trails. Daily passes or annual ones - the choice depends on your usage. 3 nights here means it’s cheaper to get the annual pass.

To get to the non-electric sites, you drive through much of the park. Signs showed the way and it was easy to follow along. We passed the camp store in the middle. We camped at site 401 which is near the bathroom. There are plenty of trees between sites so others are heard more than seen. The site is large enough for my teardrop camper and a screen room (trying to keep the mosquitoes at bay) and still have plenty more room. The showers are clean and refreshing. 

The main draw for us is the hiking. The Ice Age trail passes right through this camp loop. We followed it out and back after setting up camp. The ranger said the east and west bluff trails are the most popular. We headed out early on Monday and did an 8 mile loop right from our campsite. We saw beautiful overlooks and only encountered 1 person on the trail. Tuesday found us on the tumbled rocks trail and returning on the west bluff. 3 school buses of children filled the trail. It was still enjoyable with the crowds. 

The only negative is that some trails are hard to follow when they use the roads in the park. It’s not often and understandable once you do your first hike. This is a great park that was great to visit midweek instead of on a crowded weekend.