Free Nature Gear & Activities at the Devil’s Lake Nature Center
The following items are available to borrow whenever the Nature Center is open. These programs are free and designed to help families explore the outdoors together.
🧭 Wisconsin Explorer Books & Backpacks
Perfect for young adventurers, the Wisconsin Explorer books include nature activities, scavenger hunts, games, hikes, and crafts.
Borrow a backpack filled with supplies like magnifying lenses, bug boxes, pencils, crayons, and field guides to help kids complete the activities.
🐻 Take Smokey Camping
Kids can take a cuddly, stuffed Smokey Bear camping for the night! Read The True Story of Smokey Bear and record your adventure in Smokey’s diary—write about everything Smokey did during your visit.
🌲 Forest Forever Backpacks
Designed for older kids (ages 10–14), these backpacks are packed with tools, books, games, and guides that help young explorers learn about Wisconsin’s forests and ecosystems.
🎣 Fishing Poles
Spend a relaxing day fishing on Devil’s Lake. Fishing poles are available for free daily checkout—no bait or lures are provided.
Note: A valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older.
❄️ Snowshoe Rentals
Come explore Devil’s Lake in winter! The Nature Center offers free snowshoe rentals in a range of sizes, including pairs for kids as young as 4.
Snowshoes must be used within the park and returned the same day.
All items are available on a first-come, first-served basis during open hours. For seasonal updates, visit the Nature Center or check the park’s website.