Quartzite Campground

Hey there, fellow Wisconsinites and outdoor enthusiasts! When you think of breathtaking natural beauty in our state, Devil's Lake State Park undoubtedly comes to mind. And for those looking to immerse themselves fully in this iconic landscape, Quartzite Campground offers a fantastic basecamp. Located conveniently within the park boundaries in Baraboo, this campground provides direct access to some of Wisconsin's most stunning geological formations and recreational opportunities.

Quartzite Campground is one of three family campgrounds within Devil's Lake State Park, each offering a slightly different experience. Our focus here is to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Quartzite Campground, helping you, our local users in Wisconsin, understand what makes it a prime choice for your next adventure. We'll delve into its unique location, the essential services it provides, and the distinct features that set it apart. While some campers have noted specific characteristics to be aware of, the overwhelming consensus points to a well-maintained and highly accessible gateway to the wonders of Devil's Lake.

Quartzite Campground is ideally located within Devil's Lake State Park, at the address "Nature Center, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA." More specifically, it can be accessed directly from County Road DL, which allows for easier entry and exit, often helping campers avoid the heavier summer traffic that can sometimes affect other park entrances. Its placement is also particularly convenient as it's located near the park's Nature Center, and there's an access road leading up to the main day-use picnic area and beach.

While the campground itself is not directly on the lakeshore, it is approximately 0.33 miles from the lake, separated by a wooded hill and the park entrance road. This distance is generally walkable, but it's important to note the "steep hill between the campground and the day-use area" when planning your trips to the beach or main park facilities. For Wisconsinites traveling from Madison, Milwaukee, or other parts of the state, Baraboo is a well-known destination, making the park easily accessible via major state highways. The internal roads within Quartzite Campground are paved, and many campsite spurs are paved or gravel, aiding in maneuverability. This campground, once a 9-hole golf course, is largely open and spacious, making it a "great choice for those with large RVs due to the open and spacious nature of many of its sites."

As part of the Wisconsin State Park System, Quartzite Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities, focusing on convenience and maintaining a clean environment for campers.

• Electric Campsites: Quartzite Campground offers both electric (75 sites) and non-electric campsites. Electric sites typically provide 20, 30, or 50 amp service, catering to various RV and trailer needs.
• Modern Shower Building & Flush Toilets: The campground is equipped with a modern shower building featuring heated individual stalls, running water, and flush toilets. This amenity is greatly appreciated by campers seeking comfort in a natural setting. These facilities are generally open from mid-April through mid-October, depending on temperatures.
• Dump/Fill Station: A convenient RV dump station is located at the east side of the campground and is free for registered campers to use. Unregistered vehicles can use it for a fee. This facility is typically closed in the off-season (mid-October to mid-April) to prevent freeze damage.
• Drinking Water Taps: Running water for drinking and other uses is available at numerous taps scattered throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to potable water.
• Firewood Sales: Bundles of firewood are available for sale at the camp store and the north shore Chateau during operating hours, making it easy to enjoy campfires (collecting dead wood from the ground within the park is also permitted).
• Online Reservations: Due to Devil's Lake's popularity, reservations for campsites are strongly recommended and can be made online or by calling the Wisconsin State Parks reservation line.
• Accessibility Features: The park offers accessible opportunities including one accessible campsite with a paved driveway, and easy access to an accessible shower and restroom within Quartzite Campground.

Quartzite Campground, as part of Devil's Lake State Park, offers unique features and highlights that draw campers back year after year.

• Proximity to Devil's Lake: Its location within Devil's Lake State Park provides immediate access to the park's main attractions: the stunning 360-acre glacial lake, towering quartzite bluffs (up to 500 feet high), and over 30 miles of hiking trails.
• Open and Spacious Sites (Ideal for RVs): Having once been a golf course, Quartzite Campground features mostly open and grassy areas. This layout provides more spacious sites compared to some other campgrounds in the park, making it particularly suitable for larger recreational vehicles and trailers, offering better maneuverability.
• Playground: A playground is located within the campground, near the middle, providing a convenient and safe area for children to play.
• Direct Access to Nature Center: Being near the Nature Center offers educational opportunities and a starting point for exploring the park's natural history and ecology.
• Access to Hiking Trails: The campground is "just under a half mile from the trails," including sections of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, allowing campers to easily embark on scenic hikes to famous formations like Devil's Doorway and Balanced Rock.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite some specific site-leveling challenges, the campground is generally "extremely well maintained," particularly the shower building.
• Winter Camping Availability: Unlike some other campgrounds in the park, Quartzite Campground is open year-round for winter camping, offering a unique experience for cold-weather enthusiasts (though running water and dump stations are closed during this period).
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the campground (with standard state park rules regarding leashing, waste disposal, and prohibited areas like beach or buildings).

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Quartzite Campground and Devil's Lake State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: Nature Center, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA (This refers to the general location within Devil's Lake State Park)

Official Park Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA (This is often used for the park's main entrance or general area).

Park Office Phone: (608) 356-8301 (This is the general number for Devil's Lake State Park).

Wisconsin State Park Reservations: 1-888-947-2757 (Call to make or change camping reservations).

Website for Reservations and Detailed Information: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake (Wisconsin DNR official park page) or https://www.devilslakewisconsin.com/ (Area Visitor's Guide).

For Wisconsinites, Quartzite Campground at Devil's Lake State Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, offering a quintessential Wisconsin outdoor experience. Its prime location within one of our most iconic state parks means unparalleled access to Devil's Lake's stunning natural wonders—the towering bluffs, clear waters, and extensive trail system are literally at your fingertips. This direct access makes it incredibly convenient for locals, reducing travel time and maximizing your opportunity to explore and relax.

While some larger RVs might encounter specific site leveling challenges (which can be mitigated by researching sites before booking, a tip from fellow campers), the campground's overall design with spacious, open sites makes it a preferred choice for those with bigger rigs. The presence of electric hookups, modern shower facilities, and a dump station ensures a comfortable stay, blending the rugged beauty of the park with essential amenities. This balance is key for many Wisconsin families and individuals who want to enjoy nature without completely roughing it.

Furthermore, the affordability of state park admission (especially with an annual Wisconsin State Park sticker, which is a fantastic investment for frequent visitors) makes Quartzite Campground a cost-effective option for regular getaways. The family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a playground for kids and pet-friendly policies, means everyone can join in the adventure. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen rock climber, a fishing enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in a visually stunning setting, Quartzite Campground provides the perfect home base. It’s a chance to reconnect with Wisconsin’s natural heritage, create lasting memories, and truly experience the beauty of our state, making it an ideal recurring destination for locals.

Quartzite Campground

Nature Center, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA