Devil’s Lake Expanded: The Conservation Fund, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Grows Most Visited State Park

SAUK COUNTY, WI — A deal has been finalized to permanently protect land that will expand Devil’s Lake State Park by 100 acres. 

In 2025, The Conservation Fund bought the land to save it from future development. It used to be one of the largest privately owned parcels inside the park. Now, it will be protected and managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the public to enjoy. 

Visited by over 2.5 million people every year, this park offers a wide variety of outdoor opportunities, including biking, climbing, and camping. 500-foot bluffs offer scenic views of the lake dubbed “Tee Wakącąk” — or “sacred lake” — by the Ho-Chunk Nation and is frequently used for swimming and paddling. 

“The beauty of Devil’s Lake State Park can’t be overstated, and it’s where memories are made for many people in Wisconsin and beyond,” said Clint Miller, The Conservation Fund’s vice president of the Central Midwest region. “This expansion was made possible with the help of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and proves that dedicated state funding for conservation is essential. By protecting this land, we’re excited to give park visitors the chance to do even more of what they love.” 

The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is a bipartisan initiative in Wisconsin that’s funded wildlife habitat protection and outdoor recreation projects since 1989. The state legislature has failed to reauthorize the program thus far, meaning this critical state conservation funding source will likely end in 2026. 

Devil’s Lake is also home to many hiking trails, including parts of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail — a 1,200-mile footpath following the edge of a glacier that covered the area 15,000 years ago. This project lays the groundwork for a potential future segment of this historic trail, where 2 million people hike every year. 

“This thrilling addition to the Devil’s Lake State Park property, with its scenic vistas and world class geology, is sure to become a highlight for park visitors,” said Steve Schmelzer, DNR parks and recreation management director. “The State of Wisconsin is grateful for The Conservation Fund’s continued partnership in preserving these cherished landscapes.” 

“Devil’s Lake State Park is one of our state’s most recognized outdoor recreation destinations, and for good reason,” said Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. “This is a place that’s been beloved by visitors for generations. With the protection of these additional acres within the park, comes even more opportunity to explore and for people to enjoy this really special place.” 

About The Conservation Fund
The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches, and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America’s natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org.