The Wisconsin Dells area has a lot to offer, and beautiful landscapes and vistas are no exception! Nestled in the surrounding region, Devil’s Lake State Park, Mirror Lake State Park, and Rocky Arbor State Park are a spectacular addition to any vacation. State park passes can be issued hourly, daily, and annually and are honored until December 31, 2014. Park passes provide a portion of the funds that help keep the Wisconsin state parks, forests, and trails in tip-top shape for future generations. So you can truly feel good about slapping on your Wisconsin State Park pass sticker!
Devil’s Lake State Park
You won’t be disappointed with the 29-miles of hiking trails, fantastic camping opportunities, swimming, kayaking, and interpretive programs at Devil’s Lake State Park! Located just a short drive away from the Dells in Baraboo, WI, Devil’s Lake is visited by over 2 million people every year (the #1 visited state park in Wisconsin), and is known for its majestic beauty! Whether you are looking for a thrilling, more advanced hike on the 1.4 mi. West Bluff Trail or a leisurely stroll on the aptly-named, mile-long Tumbled Rocks Trail, Devil’s lake has a trail for you!
Your family will love taking a dip in the cool waters of Devil’s Lake. The beach is big enough for everyone, and the crystal-clear water makes for a great spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon! With depths of up to 47 feet, Devil’s Lake is used for all sorts of water recreation. Kayaks, canoes, small boats, and paddle boards are all available for rent at the North Shore. Cool fact: Devil’s Lake State Park is a popular scuba diving location! Non-motorized boats are allowed on Devil’s Lake, and it’s known as a local fishing hole!
As far as camping goes, Devil’s Lake has you more than covered! You’ll find 3 public camping areas on the north side, 9 sites on the south side, and scattered campsites along the 3.5 miles of shoreline! Bring a picnic, Devil’s Lake has 3 picturesque picnic areas each with stunning park views! Be sure to keep in mind that Wisconsin State Parks rely on their visitors to help keep the park clean. There is a “carry in, carry out” policy on all trash, so bring a trash bag and dispose of your garbage when you get home!
Swimming, boating, biking, hiking, rock climbing, scuba diving, paddle boarding, fishing, cross country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing are all on the agenda at Devil’s Lake! Leashed pets are allowed within the park boundaries, and can partner you on the trails (just be sure to clean up after Fifi!).
Devil’s Lake State Park is open to outside visitors from 6am-11pm daily.
Mirror Lake State Park
Your state park pass will also get you in to Mirror Lake State Park. Conveniently located off Interstate 90-94, and just 3 miles from Wisconsin Dells, Mirror Lake is an easily accessible park that’s jam-packed with adventure! The park’s topography is breathtaking, and it gets you face-to-face with the sandstone bluffs that helped make Wisconsin Dells famous. Towering red, white, and Norway pines line the trails and shoreline and create a fairytale-like setting. Mirror Lake is home to over 19 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of off-road biking trails, and offers boat, bike, canoe, and kayak rentals!
We would recommend renting a kayak at Mirror Lake State Park. Their equipment rental station will get you outfitted with everything you’ll need for a fantastic kayaking experience. The narrow waterways and sandstone cliffs are the perfect place to explore by water! The no-wake policy, calm water, and secluded feel of Mirror Lake lends itself to the perfect kayak/canoe getaway! Bring a fishing pole in the kayak with you! Those with valid WI fishing licenses are more than welcome to drop a line in the water and catch some delicious dinner!
There are plenty of densely-wooded campsites to choose from, and much of the park and trails are handicap-accessible (including a handicap-accessible cabin). A great perk to camping in the park is use of their several flush restrooms and showers! At the park concession stand you can purchase ice to keep your cooler fresh, and firewood to create the perfect S’more-ey end to a great day at Mirror Lake!
Mirror Lake State Park is a perfect winter park! Their trails are open to snowshoers and cross-country skiers! The rolling hills and varying trail lengths are perfect for first-timers & the most experienced of winter sport enthusiasts!
You won’t be disappointed with your trip to this beautiful state park. Be sure to bring a camera… and some extra batteries! You’ll have a new holiday card photo for sure! Mirror Lake State Park is open from 6am-11pm daily.
Rocky Arbor State Park
If you are looking to get away from the city setting, Rocky Arbor State Park is a great choice! Rocky Arbor focuses on hiking and camping, and boy-oh-boy do they do a stellar job! There is a 1.5 mile guided hike through the park that focuses on the stunning rocky ledges, and 89 secluded campsites that will have you completely in-touch with nature! On arrival, you’ll notice a beautiful playground area and a space to sprawl out your very own picnic!
If you are an avid snowshoer, plan your trip in the winter months! The reddish color of the cliff ledges stands out against the bright white glow of the fresh snow!
HINT: You can’t miss this A+ park in the fall season! The colors of the trees coupled with the warm hues of the bluffs make it a beautiful fall destination location!
Rocky Arbor State Park is from 6am-11pm.
From hiking to camping, swimming to scuba diving, our local Wisconsin Dells state parks have you covered! Don’t forget to purchase your Wisconsin State Park pass when entering, it will gain you direct access to all 3 parks! Though you could do all 3 parks in one day, we recommend taking your time to really explore them all! When spending time outside, be sure to bring some energy-packed snacks, water, and sunblock! Enjoy!
Sticker Fees Annual/Daily/One-hour
Vehicle with WI license plates $25//$7/$5
Vehicle with WI plates, resident age 65 and older $10/$3/N/A
Vehicle with out-of-state plates $35/$10/$5
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