Initiatives
In keeping with our mission to give back to Devil’s Lake State Park using our money, the Friends fundraise and receive grant support for park projects, infrastructure, visitor enhancements, and other improvements. Below is our list of 2026 priority initiatives. Every membership, sponsorship, donation, and purchase of merchandise or firewood goes into making these projects a reality. These projects are made possible through YOUR support! THANK YOU.
Wayfinding Signage
Last updated and installed in 2001, the Friends are fundraising for all new trail signage! The trails at Devil’s Lake can be tricky to follow. New signage, developed by the DNR, will help visitors navigate and orient to this park. This two-year project will cost approximately $50,000.
Trailhead Kiosks
To help visitors when they arrive at a trailhead, kiosks provide necessary information such as maps, warnings and notifications, reminders, and safety notices. We’re funding two new kiosks, one for the parking lot at Steinke Basin and one for the CCC parking lot. Cost: $4,152
Bike Racks
We’re purchasing three new bike racks for the park! New bike racks will be strategically placed, durable, and sized to accommodate all types of bikes. Cost: $1,438
Picnic Tables
Bolstered by a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant, we funded 41 new, galvanized picnic tables for the Quartzite Campground. These new tables are durable and require very little maintenance as opposed to the wooden tables. This $39,547 project was matched 50/50 by the state and the Friends. Our cost: $19,773.33
Accessibility Improvements
Bolstered by a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant, we are in the process of funding accessibility improvements to both the day use areas and the campgrounds. Improvements include universal BBQs, fire rings, picnic table access, and more. This $40,000 project will be matched 50/50 by the state and the Friends. Our cost: $20,000
Volleyball Posts
The park’s sand volleyball courts are popular! A set of posts are due for an upgrade. Help us keep recreational facilities updated! Cost: ~$2,500
Fire Ring Replacement
Our popular fire ring at the Rock Elm Shelter sees heavy use! Installed in 2020, the fire ring is in need of TLC. Working with the family of Dr. Timothy Schuebel, DDS, we’re purchasing and replacing this fire ring. The family has funded most of the cost, but additional costs remain due to rising tariffs. Cost: ~$2,200
Playground Refresh
This spring, we both purchased materials for and did the work on refreshing two playgrounds, one at the Quartzite Campground and one at the Northern Lights Campground. At Quartzite, we added a new layer of protective rubber nuggets. At Northern Lights, we replaced all the perimeter timbers and added new fall protection. Cost: $6,630
Trees
To celebrate our 30th anniversary this year, we purchased tree seedlings planted for Arbor Day. Trees were planted at the Quartzite and Northern Lights campgrounds. Together with Heartwood Tree Company and Devil’s Lake Climbing Guides, volunteers planted over 100 trees that will help add shade, provide ecological benefit, and replace trees removed due to invasive species invasion and disease. Cost: $2,500
Programs and Events
We offer free, family-friendly programs throughout the year. This fall, we have several events coming up, including our popular Halloween Extravaganza on October 24. We’ll host three torchlit hikes this winter. Help us fund programs year-round! Each year, we spend approximately $10,000 on programs. Cost: $10,000
If you’re interested in helping fund our work beyond these projects (we need help with ongoing operational costs), please contact us or donate today! In addition to the projects listed above, we also fund nature center programs and materials, park staff appreciation and training, and supplies for our volunteer workdays. Your support makes this work possible.