While we’re waiting for the snow to melt.. (which shouldn’t be too long actually) I thought I’d share a bit of Devil’s Lake Facebookery.  There are 3 Facebook pages worth joining for Devil’s Lake State Park fans and addicts..  There’s ours of course..The Skillet Creek Fan Page which is fairly new, Then there is the “Fans of Devil’s Lake State Park” page hosted by Ben Treutler, and there’s the new Devil’s Lake State Park Rock Climbing Page as well.  That’s 3 places you can sooth your sense of outdoor deprivation, see pictures, make friends and probably learn a bit as well.

Weather is calling for rain and 50F today.. That snow is not long for this world.

Ok. I think we’re allowed to start thinking about spring now!!  Finally it’s March and for the moment air temperatures are hanging between 30 – 40f and showing signs of a bit of warming.  Oh sure, we’ll get a bit more cold and a bit more snow as Winter fights to keep it’s grasp on the northern hemisphere, but it won’t last.  So with that thought, let’s all run outside and shout, YIPPIE!!!..   Now let’s hit a few quick updates…

Again, I want to remind you to get your reservations for the park locked down as quickly as possible.  That’s always first on the list this time of year.

Given the time of year, it’s time to really start taking ice conditions on the lake seriously.  We don’t want anyone going through the ice this year.  For the most part,  a bit of good judgment will go along way.  Stay sober, don’t go racing across the frozen surface at night when you can’t see… You know, be smart!

Next congratulations to  the new official Devil’s Lake State Park superintendent Steve Schmelzer.  Superintendent Steve has been “Acting”  superintendent for some time now, and it’s about time he officially got the con.

Last Week Skiing On Steinke Basin.

Cross Country Ski Trails as still open but getting a bit crunchy at the moment.  We had some nice fresh snow recently but it covers some crusty stuff underneath. Hikers are waiting for access with baited breath.

Meanwhile planning continues for next year’s Devil’s Lake State Park Centennial Celebration.  Lot’s of ideas and events have been tossed around.  Next meeting we start fixing events and dates, then get to work organizing them.

Let’s be clear. You simply have to reserve now for most weekends at Devil’s Lake and many other state parks to have a chance at getting a sport.  Yes, there is the whole drive in and play “campsite lotto” approach but don’t count on it.  I’ve added a “Book Now” button on the top left menu to make it easier to get directly to the Reserve America screen.  (We are now a Reserve America Partner) Read the rest of this entry »

Devil’s Lake State Park may have a volunteer campground host position open this summer at the park. If you are interested contact Jenny Hudson-Stanek (608)356-8301 ext. 132.  What’s a campground host?  Well, they are they guys who get the free campsite all summer.. But it’s much more than that.  These are also they folks who love the park so much that they will spend the summer helping people just like you get the most out of your stay.

Now the Wisconsin DNR takes a pretty stoic approach to what a campground host is.  They say, “Campground hosts set an example by being model campers, practicing good housekeeping, and obeying all rules and regulations.”  Well, yes they do.  But it’s more than that.  Campground hosts also greet new visitors when they roll in.  They hand out literature, answer questions, share experiences, solve camper’s issues, channel complaints when necessary and even perform a bit of maintenance.  A campground host is, well, a host.  A great gig if you love the park and have the time.  AND if you can get it.

Just a few days back a 17 year old girl was hurt snow-tubing near the park.  A med-flight helicopter landed at the Stienke basin parking area to take her to the hospital in Madison some 45 miles away.  Then last Saturday night a man drove his ATV through the ice on the lake as well.  It seems like a good time to just remind everyone to be careful out there.

The tubing accient sounded pretty unusual.  According to reports the hill was not that big, it was just icy and fast.  For ice fisherman and others out on the lake keep in mind that the park does not monitor the ice in any way. Currents and springs can create dangerous areas right next to areas that  seem very safe.  It’s hard to tell which is which and just because you see tracks does not mean conditons haven’t changed since the last driver went though.  Over the next couple months conditions can and will change very quickly as we progress into spring. If you put your vehicle through, it can cost up to $3000 to get it out again and that would really put a damper on your day.

Let’s just be extra careful.. OK?

Read More

• Girl critical after tubing mishap
• ATV plunges through Devil’s Lake ice