Save 5 Bucks!

So this is for all you frugal folks and self-avowed cheapskates! Well, anyone that likes saving a few bucks. Five, to be exact. Well, maybe 10.

If you are planning to visit Devil’s Lake State Park for the day, or better yet Devil’s Lake State Park AND Mirror Lake State Park, get your daily pass at Mirror Lake State Park. A daily pass at Mirror Lake State Park costs Wisconsin residents $8. The same daily pass at Devil’s Lake State Park costs $13 for residents. The $5 bump includes out-of-state license plates and bus passes as well. (Annual park stickers are the same rates regardless of where you buy it.)

So we all knew the daily rates at Devil’s Lake State Park were going up and would be higher than other parks. But it’s easy to overlook that the next closest park, Mirror Lake, is only 12.5 miles away and day passes which are valid at all parks are $5 cheaper there.

So what?

OK, I started out by saying this was a tip for extra frugal people. Not everyone is going to care about saving $5 or would drive the extra miles for it. But in a few cases, it makes sense; You’re only here for the day and you plan on visiting both parks. You’re staying in Wisconsin Dells. (Mirror Lake is then on your way to Devil’s Lake anyway!) You plan on visiting parks and natural areas around Devil’s Lake such as Parfrey’s Glen which also requires at least a day pass. Or maybe you’re just on a tight budget. 🙂

Save Even More?

Now at some point, it’s more logical to buy an annual pass. If you make your purchase at Devil’s Lake State Park, it’s day 2. Two day passes at Devil’s Lake will cost Wisconsin Residents $26. An annual pass costs $28. Same for out-of-state plates. Two-day passes will cost you $32. An annual out-of-state pass costs $38. However, if you buy your day passes at Mirror Lake State Park, you’re still saving money, about $10 for 2 days.

Just Buy The Annual Pass

If you’re going to visit Wisconsin State Parks, and many natural areas for more than 2 days this year, the cost difference doesn’t matter. Just buy the annual pass. It’s the best deal. Besides, the more money you spend on stickers, the more money goes to supporting the parks! Buy 2 and give one to a friend! Wisconsin State Park’s are self-supporting and really need the bucks!

Bottom Line

Frugal travelers can save $5 by purchasing a daily pass at Mirror Lake State Park before visiting Devil’s Lake. Two, day passes can save you $10. Beyond two days, you’re better off buying the annual pass no matter how you slice it.

More Ways To Save?

Remember, Wisconsin residents age 65 or older with WI license plates can get their annual sticker for $13. Veterans can get some discounts as well. And lastly, if you’ve already purchased one sticker, you can get stickers for additional vehicles registered to the same household address at a reduced rate.