First Time Camper? This Accessible Campground in Wisconsin Will Make You a Camping Convert

“Time spent indoors was time wasted.” That’s a quote from Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird that has stuck with me since my youth. Ever since I read that line, I adopted a firm belief that everyone should spend time outdoors, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. However, I understand that if you didn’t grow up in an “outdoorsy” family, the concept of getting outdoors is easier said than done. That’s why I want to challenge you to take your first overnight camping trip in the accessible Quartzite campground at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin.

Three family campgrounds and an outdoor camp make up more than 420 campsites at Devil’s Lake State Park. While all the campgrounds are accessible, I find Quartzite campground to offer more perks than the others to welcome a first-time camper. For starters, this campground used to be a golf course. In fact, the nature center used to be the clubhouse. 

Additionally, the campground is the closest of the three to the swimming beach at Devil’s Lake. Of Quartzite campground’s 100 sites, 75 have electric hookups. RV owners tend to like this campground due to the larger and open sites it offers. If you’re someone worried about staying clean, there’s no need to fret. Quartzite campground offers running water, complete with shower houses and restrooms. Plus, there’s a host stationed at the campground to help you out with anything you might need. 

Camping isn't just about sitting around the campfire (although it can be if you want it to be!). Devil's Lake State Park offers a plethora of accessible activities for first-time campers to fill their day with. For example, there are over 30 miles of hiking trails to explore. Tumbled Rock Trail, Devil's Lake Grottos Trail, and Steinke Basin Loop are all relatively short and sweet routes to try out on your first camping trip.

In addition to camping, the state park offers picnic areas, kayak rentals, and 500-foot quartzite bluffs to gaze upon. Of course, you can always take a dip in the 360-acre lake itself. If relaxing is more your speed, every campsite has a metal fire ring for making s'mores and a picnic table to enjoy your gooey creation on. If you're not quite ready to take on campfire cooking, Quartzite campground is just a five-minute drive from the town of Baraboo. Here, you'll find plenty of restaurants and cafes to satisfy your hunger. Plus, there's a Walmart in case you forgot any essentials.

I understand that trying something new can feel scary. However, I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and give camping a try. Quartzite campground at Devil's Lake State Park is both a safe and accessible place to test out this new experience and see if it's right for you. Take a look at our list of camping must-haves for some packing inspiration before you hit the road. Do any other accessible campgrounds in Wisconsin come to mind? Let us know by filling out our nomination form.