Devil’s Lake Economic Impact Study
What is this study?
The Wisconsin Climbers Association is conducting a groundbreaking economic impact study at Devil's Lake State Park, funded by a grant from the Access Fund. This research will help us understand and quantify the economic contribution climbers make to local communities surrounding Wisconsin's premier climbing destination.
Data collected from May - October 2025 is currently being analyzed. We aim to share the results of the study in February 2026. Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to stay in touch!
Why this matters
For years, we've known that climbers contribute significantly to the local economy around Devil's Lake, but we've lacked the data to demonstrate this impact. This study will help:
Quantify the economic value climbers bring to the region
Strengthen our advocacy efforts with park management and local governments
Support access initiatives with concrete data
Build relationships with local businesses and stakeholders
Document climber demographics and Leave No Trace practices
your participation matters
TAKE THE SURVEY
Your participation is crucial to the success of this study! The survey takes just 15-20 minutes to complete and collects information about your climbing activities, spending habits, and Leave No Trace awareness.
Please note: Data for the economic impact study was collected from May - October 2025. The survey is still open to share about your most recent climbing experience at Devil’s Lake but data collected from November onward will not be included in this phase of the study.
Pro tip: Save the survey link on your phone/computer for easy access to take the survey after each climbing trip!
WHEN TO COMPLETE THE SURVEY
We encourage you to complete the survey each time you visit Devil's Lake to climb. This helps us capture seasonal variations and different types of climbing trips.
SHARE WITH FELLOW CLIMBERS
The more data we collect, the stronger our results will be. Please share this initiative with your climbing partners and encourage them to participate.
Timeline and Updates
We'll be collecting data through October 2025. Check back here or follow us on social media for the latest information.
The final study will be shared in early 2026.
Partners and Support
This economic impact study is made possible through a grant from the Access Fund. Learn more about the Access Fund here!
Want to learn more from similar studies? Learn more here!
We also want to thank The Mountaineering Foundation of Chicago and the support of our local climbing community. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in this important initiative.
faq’s
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This survey is designed to help the Wisconsin Climbers Association understand climbing at Devil’s Lake State Park. It gathers information on climbers’ spending, demographics, Leave No Trace practices, and climbing habits to help the WCA understand more about climbing at this popular park and the benefits it has on the local economy.
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We know people come to Devil's Lake to climb, but we don't have data about who they are or where they come from. Your responses will help WCA:
Measure the financial impact of climbing on the community
Understand climbers' habits and commitment to Leave No Trace principles
Support climbing access and advocacy efforts with solid data
Better advocate for climbing in Wisconsin
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Anyone who climbs at Devil's Lake, whether independently or as part of a guided trip. If you're spending money on food, lodging, gear, or other expenses while climbing here, your input is valuable!
You can take the survey every time you climb at the lake!
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The survey asks about:
Your climbing activities (bouldering, trad, or guided trips)
How often you visit Devil’s Lake to climb
How much you spent on food, lodging, gear, etc., on your most recent trip
Your awareness and practice of Leave No Trace principles
Basic demographic information to help us understand who is climbing here
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The data will be compiled and analyzed to provide insights into how climbers support the local economy. This information can help WCA advocate for climbers, support climbing access, work with local land owners/managers, and promote responsible climbing practices.
Contact Us
Have questions about the economic impact study? Want to get volunteer or get involved?
Reach out to us:
Email: info@wiclimbers.com
