Underrated Escapes: Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin
Uncover hidden gems and underrated destinations from the team at Rand McNally. This week, Linda Pappalardo, our senior marketing manager and April Maher, a Rand McNally contributor, share their favorite spot for a friends’ getaway.
Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin
✨The Vibe: A quaint alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby Wisconsin Dells
✨Why It's Great: Crystal-clear Devil's Lake for swimming, 500-foot quartzite bluffs for climbing, and over 400 campsites for camping. “April invited me to her family reunion here over 30 years ago, and I've been hooked on the spot ever since,” says Linda. “We’ve swum in the pristine lake, hiked on the bluffs to Balanced Rock, Elephant Rock, and Devil's Doorway, or just walked the more leisurely Tumbling Rocks Trail. We've jumped off Ruth Rock and Rock 8 and kayaked on the lake (happily, no motorboats allowed).” “We've had our fair share of brats and beers or legendary cheese curds in the Chateau while shopping for the perfect souvenir,” says April. “If all the campsites in the state park are booked up, head 2 miles down the road to Skillet Creek Campground for a great camping experience with secluded sites, a new swimming pond, and a family-friendly vibe.”
✨Don't Miss: Circus World Museum where Ringling Brothers Circus began in 1894 and called Baraboo home. “Hip eateries like Tumbled Rocks Brewery serve Lamb Lollipops and Bison Sliders and have live music, or stop for Eggs Benny (Benedict) at the retro 1950s Broadway Diner in town, says April. “Baraboo Candy Company (and most of the stores in town) sells Cow Pies, Moo Chews and Udderfingers, ooey-gooey chocolate sweet treats with various caramel, nutty, and toffee fillings. If you’re in the mood for a classic Wisconsin Supper Club, don’t miss Ishnala, 10.5 miles away in Lake Delton.”
✨Photo Op: Wisconsin Tourism placed selfie stands at scenic locations around the state. “There are two selfie stands at Devil's Lake State Park: one on the north shore about 100 yards west of The Chateau and the other at the southwest corner of the lake on Cottage Grove Rd,” says Linda. “Take a fun photo of yourself with the scenic bluffs in the background.”