Visiting During the "Slow Season" - Devil's Lake State Park Area Visitor's Guide

November 4, 2025
Derrick Mayoleth
Hiking & Trails, Tourism, Uncategorized, Winter
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Even though fall is winding down, there’s still great hiking to do at Devil’s Lake. Keep in mind, when you come in the fall/winter, many of the park’s facilities are shut down for the season.

Bathrooms

We mentioned this in our spring newsletter that not all restrooms are open year-round—especially those with flush toilets. Many pit (or vault) toilets are open year-round, but if you are looking for flush toilets. . . .

North Shore: Heated flush toilets are available at the Visitor Center and Park Headquarters.
South Shore: Only the vault toilets near the East Bluff are open.

Check the map below for year-round restrooms (marked with green dots).

Water

Water fountains on both shores will be turned off for the season. Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while you’re hiking and exploring.

Concessions

The concession stands—North Shore (Chateau) and South Shore— will be shut down for the season. The Chateau closes at the end of October. If you plan on visiting the park this winter, make sure to bring your own snacks and meals.

Picnic areas are open, but with winter’s chill in the air, consider wrapping up your trip with a meal at a local restaurant.

Derrick Mayoleth

For nearly 2 decades the Skillet Creek blog has focused on 3 main goals; To inspire you to visit and explore the Devil’s Lake region, to help you get the most your visit by sharing tips, events, and other helpful information. Lastly to advocate for our environment & wildlife and talk about how we can keep our natural areas amazing now and into the future! That last goal can sometimes cause controversy, but it’s the only way we can accomplish the first two. – Derrick Mayoleth, Owner.