Northern Lights Campground

For Wisconsin locals, the call of Devil's Lake State Park is a familiar and compelling one. And for many, their basecamp for exploring this natural wonder is the Northern Lights Campground. Located right within the heart of the park at its headquarters, this campground offers direct access to the stunning bluffs, clear waters, and extensive trail system that make Devil's Lake a jewel of the Wisconsin State Park System. It's a place where families have built traditions for generations, where the excitement of outdoor adventure meets the simple joys of a campfire under the stars.

Northern Lights Campground is known for being a bustling hub of activity, especially during peak seasons, reflecting the immense popularity of Devil's Lake itself. While it can be busy, its convenience to all the park has to offer, combined with essential amenities, makes it a perennial favorite. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a water enthusiast, or a family looking for memorable outdoor experiences, understanding what Northern Lights Campground provides is key to planning your perfect Wisconsin getaway. This guide will delve into the factual details, helping you prepare for a truly immersive experience at one of the state's most iconic destinations.

Northern Lights Campground is centrally located within Devil's Lake State Park at S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA. This prime address means you are literally immersed in the park's natural splendor. For Wisconsin residents, Baraboo is a well-known and easily navigable destination, typically accessible via major state and federal highways. Once in the vicinity of Baraboo, clear signage will direct you to Devil's Lake State Park, and subsequently, to the Northern Lights Campground, which is near the park headquarters.

The campground's location is a significant advantage, as it is approximately "0.50 miles from the lakeshore," with connector trails providing convenient access to the North Shore day-use picnic area and beach. This proximity allows campers to walk or bike to the lake, enjoying swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water without the hassle of driving and finding separate parking within the often-crowded park. However, it's important to note that accessing the campground requires driving through the main park entrance, which "can lead to long waits to return to your campsite from outside the park on busy weekends." Planning your arrivals and departures strategically during peak times can help mitigate this. Despite the potential for crowds, the sheer convenience of being within Devil's Lake State Park makes Northern Lights Campground an incredibly accessible and desirable location for locals.

Northern Lights Campground, as part of Devil's Lake State Park, offers a range of services designed to provide a comfortable and equipped camping experience. These amenities contribute significantly to its popularity:

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground features 71 electric sites, including two accessible sites, making it the only campground at Devil's Lake State Park with wooded electric options. There are also non-electric sites available.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Modern Shower Buildings: Northern Lights has "four shower buildings" with "heated showers (individual stalls), running water and flush toilets." These facilities are generally clean and well-maintained, with "no additional charge for use of showers."
• Sanitary Dump/Fill Station: An RV dump and fill station is located on the east side of the campground, free for registered campers, providing essential services for RV and trailer owners.
• Mini Store/Concessions: The park features a "mini store" or concession stand where campers can purchase essentials like "food and groceries, basic camp items, ice, firewood, souvenirs, shirts and hats."
• Playground: A playground is available within the campground, specifically noted near site 140, offering a dedicated area for kids to play.
• Potable Water: Running water for drinking is available at numerous taps scattered throughout the campground areas.
• Accessibility Features: Two sites are available for people with disabilities, featuring paved driveways and easy access to accessible showers and restrooms.
• On-Site Staff/Rangers: As part of a state park, the campground is staffed by park rangers and hosts who are available to provide assistance and maintain park regulations.

Northern Lights Campground's appeal stems from its integration into Devil's Lake State Park, offering a wealth of natural and recreational features:

• Direct Access to Devil's Lake State Park: This is the paramount highlight. Campers are steps away from Devil's Lake, allowing immediate access to its "stunning bluffs," "beautiful views," and diverse landscapes, including woods and open areas.
• Variety of Sites: The campground offers a mix of "open and wooded areas," with both "electric and non-electric options." It is uniquely the "only campground where you will find wooded electric campsites" at Devil's Lake.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Many visitors praise it as a "great camping place with kids," offering playground facilities and a safe environment for children to enjoy.
• Extensive Recreational Activities: Proximity to Devil's Lake means a vast array of activities including "high-quality rock climbing," "kayaking, swimming, and hiking." The park boasts "over 29 miles of hiking trails," including the Ice Age Trail.
• Clean and Maintained Facilities: Reviewers frequently mention "clean bathrooms and showers," which are considered "modern" and a significant comfort for campers.
• Camp Store Convenience: The presence of a "mini store" within the campground is a practical highlight, saving campers from needing to leave the park for essentials.
• Nature Immersion: Despite being busy, the campground allows for a deep connection with nature, with opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching.
• Historical Significance: Northern Lights is the oldest campground at Devil's Lake State Park, opened in 1939, with some shower/restroom buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, adding a touch of history.
• Scenic Beauty: The overall "breathtaking views of the foliage in the hills below" and the surrounding bluffs make for a picturesque camping experience.

Address: Park Headquarters, S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA

Phone: For reservations and general park information related to Northern Lights Campground (as it is part of Devil's Lake State Park), the primary contact would be the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reservation system or the Devil's Lake State Park office.

Wisconsin State Park System Reservation Line: 1-888-WI-PARKS (1-888-947-2757)

Devil's Lake State Park Office: While a specific direct number for the Northern Lights Campground isn't commonly listed separately from the park, the main park office can be reached at (608) 356-8301.

Note on Reservations: Reservations for Devil's Lake State Park campgrounds are highly recommended and can be made up to 11 months in advance. Due to high demand, especially for electric and wooded sites, booking "waaaaaaay in advance" (like several months) is crucial, particularly for weekend and peak season stays. There are generally no non-reservable standard campsites, meaning you must have a reservation before setting up.

For Wisconsin locals, Northern Lights Campground at Devil's Lake State Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an institution, a vibrant gateway to one of the state's most iconic natural treasures. Its suitability for residents stems from its direct integration into the park, offering unparalleled access to Devil's Lake's stunning bluffs, crystal-clear waters, and extensive trail network. This means minimal travel time from many parts of Wisconsin and maximum time spent enjoying the outdoors, a key priority for many local adventurers.

The campground's blend of essential amenities and family-friendly features makes it incredibly appealing. With "decent sized sites" and the availability of "electric hookups," it caters to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, ensuring a comfortable stay. The presence of a "mini store" means that forgotten essentials or a quick treat are just a short walk away, adding to the convenience. Crucially, the "clean bathrooms and showers" are a significant advantage, often cited as superior to those found in other state park settings, contributing to a more pleasant camping experience.

While the campground can be "busy on weekends" and attract "lots of kids making lots of noise," this reflects its popularity as a family destination. For many Wisconsin families, this bustling, community atmosphere is part of the appeal, fostering a sense of shared adventure. The strict recommendation to "book waaaaaaay in advance" for popular sites underscores its desirability, making early planning a necessary step for locals to secure their spot at this beloved park. Despite the occasional crowdedness and the need to preview sites due to varying layouts, the overall consensus remains that the benefits of being right at Devil's Lake far outweigh these considerations.

In essence, Northern Lights Campground offers Wisconsin locals an accessible, amenity-rich, and activity-packed camping experience at the heart of Devil's Lake State Park. It's a place where outdoor adventures are limitless, where family memories are forged, and where the natural beauty of Wisconsin is truly at your doorstep. For an authentic and action-packed state park camping trip, Northern Lights remains a top choice for those in the know.

Northern Lights Campground

Park Headquarters, S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA