Devil’s Lake Nature Center

The Devil’s Lake Nature Center is located at the North Shore of Devil’s Lake State Park and serves as the park’s main hub for exhibits, naturalist programs, and visitor resources. Inside, you’ll find geology displays, hands-on natural history specimens, historic photographs, and a dedicated space for kids. During the summer season, park naturalists run a rotating schedule of programs — from monarch tagging to astronomy nights — several days a week.

Inside the Nature Center

The centerpiece of the main floor is a detailed three-dimensional landform model showing Devil’s Lake State Park from above. Nearby displays explain how the ancient valley — once more than 1,000 feet deep — was gradually filled with rock and sediment over hundreds of millions of years, leaving behind the lake as it exists today at roughly 50 feet deep.

Visitors can handle hands-on natural history specimens, including animal bones, furs, shells, and rock samples. Downstairs, a collection of historic photographs documents the park from the late 1800s through the mid-20th century. A dedicated kids’ room offers quizzes, interactive activities, and mystery boxes with items to touch and identify.

The Nature Center offers something for every age—whether you’re curious about geology, Wisconsin wildlife, or the park’s fascinating past.

Programs and Events

From late spring through fall, park naturalists lead programs Tuesday through Saturday, with daytime and evening options throughout the season. Past programs have included monarch tagging, bat tracking, astronomy nights, snowshoe hikes, and archery. Schedules and locations vary by week. See the Programs & Events Calendar for current offerings.

Events Photo Gallery