The Origin of Devil’s Lake’s Name

← Camping Essentials & Setup | Shelter & Sleeping Gear

Quick answer

• The name “Devil’s Lake” comes from Native American legends and folklore.
• Early European settlers likely mistranslated or adapted these original names.
• Multiple tribes, including the Ojibwe and Ho-Chunk, have stories associated with the lake.
• Legends often involve spirits, battles, or powerful beings residing in or near the lake.
• The name reflects the awe and respect these natural features inspired.
• It’s a common theme in place names across North America.

What to check first (do this before you drive out)

Before you head out to any campsite, especially one with a name like Devil’s Lake, do your homework. It’s not just about booking a spot. It’s about being prepared.

• Land manager / legality: Who actually owns and manages the land? Is it a state park, national forest, BLM land, or private? This dictates rules, fees, and camping regulations. Always check the official website for the specific park or forest you’re visiting. For Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin, it’s the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

• Access/road conditions: Can your rig handle the drive? Is it paved, gravel, or a rough trail? Check for seasonal closures, especially after heavy rain or snow. Some spots might need 4WD or high clearance. Don’t assume your sedan can make it to every remote campsite.

• Fire restrictions + weather + wind: This is crucial. Check current fire danger levels and any burn bans. Weather forecasts are your best friend. Extreme wind can make camping miserable or dangerous. A sudden storm can change everything.

• Water plan + waste plan (Leave No Trace): Will there be potable water available, or do you need to bring all yours? How will you handle trash and human waste? Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is non-negotiable. Pack it in, pack it out. Know where designated waste disposal is.

• Safety (wildlife, distance to help, comms): What wildlife is common in the area? Know how to store food properly. How far is the nearest ranger station or town? Cell service can be spotty, so have a backup communication plan if you’re going deep. Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

Step-by-step (field workflow)

Alright, you’ve done your pre-trip checks. Now you’re at the trailhead or campsite. Here’s how to get set up right.

1. Arrive and orient:

• What to do: Get out of your vehicle. Take a look around. Identify your designated campsite or the general area you plan to camp. Note the position of the sun, prevailing wind direction, and any obvious hazards.
• What “good” looks like: You feel a sense of calm and awareness of your surroundings. You know where the facilities are (if any) and the general layout.
• Common mistake: Rushing straight to setting up your tent without checking the site. This can lead to pitching in a low spot that floods or under a dead branch.

2. Select your tent site:

• What to do: Choose a flat, level spot for your tent. Avoid setting up on game trails or near water sources (at least 200 feet away, per LNT). Look for natural shelter from wind if possible, but avoid pitching under dead trees or branches (“widowmakers”).
• What “good” looks like: A smooth, clear patch of ground that will be comfortable for sleeping and safe from falling debris.
• Common mistake: Pitching on a slope. You’ll spend the night sliding into your tent mate or the tent wall.

3. Clear the tent footprint:

• What to do: Gently remove any rocks, twigs, or sharp debris from the area where your tent will go. You don’t need to dig or make it bare earth; just make it comfortable.
• What “good” looks like: A clean surface that won’t poke or prod you through your sleeping pad.
• Common mistake: Leaving sharp rocks or roots. You’ll regret this when you’re trying to sleep.

4. Set up your tent:

• What to do: Lay out your tent, stake down the corners, and insert poles. Attach the rainfly.
• What “good” looks like: A taut, well-secured tent that will shed rain and withstand moderate wind.
• Common mistake: Not staking the tent down properly or leaving the rainfly loose. This makes it vulnerable to wind.

5. Organize your gear:

• What to do: Unpack your sleeping bag, pad, and pillow inside the tent. Set up your cooking area away from your tent (at least 100 feet). Store food securely.
• What “good” looks like: Your sleeping area is ready for the night, and your cooking setup is safe and efficient. Food is protected from critters.
• Common mistake: Leaving food inside your tent. This is an open invitation to bears, raccoons, or other animals.

6. Water and waste management:

• What to do: If you have a water source, filter or treat it. If not, set up your filtration system. Locate designated waste disposal areas or prepare your cathole trowel for backcountry use.
• What “good” looks like: You have a reliable way to get safe drinking water and a plan for managing human waste properly.
• Common mistake: Drinking untreated water or leaving human waste uncovered. This is a major LNT violation and a health hazard.

7. Fire safety (if applicable):

• What to do: If fires are permitted, use an existing fire ring. Clear the area around it of flammable materials. Have water and a shovel nearby. Never leave a fire unattended.
• What “good” looks like: A contained, controlled fire that you can easily extinguish.
• Common mistake: Building a fire outside a designated ring or leaving it smoldering. This is a wildfire waiting to happen.

8. Secure your campsite:

• What to do: Double-check that all food is stored, trash is secured, and your tent is properly zipped.
• What “good” looks like: Your camp is safe from wildlife and the elements, ready for you to relax or explore.
• Common mistake: Leaving tempting food items accessible. Animals have a good nose.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Ignoring fire restrictions	Wildfires, fines, jail time, environmental damage.	Always check current fire bans and regulations before lighting any fire.
Improper food storage	Attracting wildlife, damaged gear, potential animal encounters, lost food.	Use bear canisters, hang food properly, or store in a bear-resistant vehicle. Keep food away from tents.
Pitching tent in a drainage path	Waking up in a puddle, wet gear, uncomfortable night.	Select a flat, well-drained spot, ideally on slightly higher ground.
Not checking road conditions	Getting stuck, vehicle damage, needing a tow, turning back.	Research road conditions for your specific vehicle type; call the ranger station if unsure.
Leaving trash behind	Littering, harming wildlife, impacting the natural beauty, potential fines.	Pack it in, pack it out. Use designated trash receptacles or bring it home.
Not having a water plan	Dehydration, illness from drinking untreated water, carrying too much weight.	Filter/treat all natural water sources, or bring enough potable water for your entire trip.
Setting up camp too close to water	Contaminating water sources, disturbing riparian habitats, mosquito issues.	Camp at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers, and streams.
Ignoring weather forecasts	Getting caught in storms, hypothermia, heatstroke, dangerous conditions.	Check forecasts before and during your trip. Be prepared to adjust plans or seek shelter.
Not telling anyone your plans	Delayed rescue if something goes wrong, increased risk in emergencies.	Leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted person, including your expected return time.
Using a campfire ring improperly	Starting wildfires, damaging the ring, creating a hazard.	Use only existing rings, keep fires small, and ensure they are completely out before leaving.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If fire restrictions are in place, then do not build a campfire because it’s illegal and dangerous.
• If the road is marked “4WD HIGH CLEARANCE REQUIRED,” then do not attempt it with a standard car because you will likely get stuck or damage your vehicle.
• If you see signs of bear activity (scat, tracks), then be extra diligent with food storage and make noise while hiking because it’s a sign they are active in the area.
• If the weather forecast shows thunderstorms, then secure your tent extra well and have a plan to get to safe shelter because lightning is a serious risk.
• If you are camping in bear country, then always store food and scented items in a bear canister or hang them properly because it protects you and the bears.
• If you are unsure about water quality, then filter or treat it before drinking because untreated water can cause severe illness.
• If you are hiking and encounter a large animal (like a moose or bison), then give it a wide berth and do not approach it because they can be unpredictable and dangerous.
• If you plan to use a camp stove, then ensure it’s in good working order and you have enough fuel because a malfunctioning stove can be a fire hazard or leave you without cooked food.
• If you are leaving your campsite for an extended period (day hike), then secure all food and trash because animals can find them even when you’re away.
• If you are unsure about local regulations regarding drones or firearms, then check the land manager’s website before you go because rules vary widely.
• If you notice your campsite becoming muddy after rain, then consider moving to a more solid surface if possible because it helps prevent site degradation.

FAQ

Why is Devil’s Lake called Devil’s Lake?

The name likely comes from Native American legends. Early European settlers may have mistranslated or adapted these original names, which often referred to spirits or powerful beings associated with the lake.

Are there specific Native American tribes connected to Devil’s Lake?

Yes, tribes like the Ojibwe and Ho-Chunk have historical ties to the region and have stories or names associated with the lake and its surroundings.

What kind of spirits are mentioned in the legends?

Legends vary, but they often involve water spirits, ancient beings, or even tales of battles that took place near the lake, giving it a sense of mystery and power.

Is the name “Devil’s Lake” unique?

No, “Devil’s Lake” and similar names (like Devil’s Backbone, Devil’s Garden) are quite common across North America. They reflect a shared cultural experience of awe and respect for natural landscapes.

Does the name imply the lake is dangerous?

While the name has a “devilish” connotation, it more often reflects the profound respect and awe the original inhabitants felt for the powerful natural forces and spiritual significance they perceived in the lake.

Did early settlers actually see devils there?

It’s unlikely they saw literal devils. The name is more a reflection of their interpretation of local folklore and the imposing, sometimes wild, nature of the landscape.

What kind of wildlife can I expect at Devil’s Lake State Park?

You can expect common Wisconsin wildlife like deer, various birds, squirrels, and possibly smaller mammals. Always be aware of your surroundings and store food properly.

Is camping allowed anywhere around Devil’s Lake?

No, camping is restricted to designated campgrounds within state parks or approved areas. Always check with the land manager for specific rules.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific campsite availability or reservation details for Devil’s Lake State Park. (Check the Wisconsin DNR website.)
• Detailed geological history of the lake’s formation. (Look for local natural history resources.)
• In-depth folklore analysis of all Native American legends. (Explore anthropological and historical texts.)
• Gear reviews for tents, sleeping bags, or cooking equipment. (Consult outdoor gear review sites.)
• Advanced wilderness survival techniques. (Seek out specialized survival training courses.)