When The Lake Drained

On June 9, 2008, something really astounding happened in Wisconsin Dells. One of our area lakes drained. Yes, it literally drained. Following several days of torrential rain, Lake Delton broke through its sandy banks and spilled into the Wisconsin River, leaving nothing but a muddy lake bottom as the view from the shoreline resorts. What was even more astounding was that in less than one year, the lake was full again, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of so many from the Governor’s office on down. And boy, did we celebrate! Today the lake is more pristine than ever, the walleye and other fish released into the waters are growing and the resorts have that stunning view of the water that you’d expect.

Additional Details

Lake Delton Reconstruction Timeline

Time-lapse video showing the refilling of Lake Delton

Lake Delton Celebration photos

Fox Sports Wisconsin celebrating "Welcome Back Lake Delton" video