By:
Submission
Originally designated the Ma-na-to (Manitoo) River, translated “Stooping Spirit River,” by native Ojibwe peoples, the name was mistaken by early settlers to mean “Devils River.” This mistranslation stuck and today Devils River is the name of the 16-mile-long waterway that flows into the West Twin River, which in turn empties into Lake Michigan. Visitors to the river can enjoy some outdoor time at the Devils River Campground, while exploring some of the historical sites around the area, including an old mill and the remains of an old stone bridge. The river is also a popular fishing hole for bullhead catfish, rock bass, northern pike, and brown and rainbow trout.
Located approximately 30 minutes southeast of Green Bay, the Devils River Campground offers 130 parklike campsites situated among open, grassy clearings (i.e., minimal privacy) surrounded by shady trees. Sites can accommodate both tent and RV campers (max 50 feet), and are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and water and electrical hookups. The central comfort station provides flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities; a dump station is located nearby. The campground also features a large swimming pond, a playground, and access to the Devils River State Trail for exploring the river, wetlands, and local prairies. Dogs are welcome at this campground. Campsite rates are $32–$38/night.
Situated right in the campground is the historic Rock Mill. Constructed in 1847 by Pliney Pierce, the mill first operated as a sawmill, then as a gristmill, for nearly a century. The remarkably well-preserved building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The mill is not open for public touring, but can be viewed from outside. Just a mile south of the campground, visitors can explore some natural history at Cherney Maribel Caves Park. The park has many caves, crevices, and cliffs that can be explored by the public. A few caves can only be seen by joining a seasonal cave tour. The park also has picnic areas, a playground, and trails for hiking, biking, and skiing.
There are rare opportunities to camp at a place like this. The waterfall was breathtaking and the historic ruins as well as the historical buildings to check out were just too cool. There is access to the waterfall from the upper campground as well as from lower down behind the buildings if a hill isn't your thing. So glad on made a 2 day stop here on my way through Wisconsin. It's nice to be so close to run to Manitawoc for groceries/dinner and museums.
We came to view the waterfall and boy it was a nice experience. Please everyone remember to stop in the office and let them know your there, this is a private campground! It doesn't cost anything and kindness is free.
We stayed at Devil's River Campground in Maribel, Wisconsin. This is more of a campground than a resort. All of the nightly sites back up to the swimming pond. We did not swim in it but lots did. The roads are gravel, 30 amp only and dump station. It is very convenient to Milwaukee and Door County. The grounds are nice and have a historic town at the entrance. There is also a creek with a waterfall. If you are looking for something fancy, this is not the place to go but we were good with it. The laundry room was inexpensive and fine to get laundry caught up. Shower house was adequate.
Big thumbs up to Bob and the crew for keeping the grounds clean. Great camp sites, and a nice touch next to the River/waterfall.
We will be returning.
Beautiful campground. All the reservable sites have spectacular spacing. Love that the water has two spigots on each pole. Pond swimming was great. Trail was fantastic. Just a short drive to Maribel Caves, too.
Web presence leaves a bit to be desired, but it is clear that they put their energy into the campground and not the marketing. Once you have been on site, you realize they don't need to market themselves any more than they already do!
