Looking for a unique day trip in Central Florida? If you love the water, consider Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring in Williston, Florida.
Today, we are sharing photos from a recent trip – and giving you information to plan your trip there, too.
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What is Devil’s Den?
Devil’s Den is a breathtaking underground spring in Central Florida. Scientifically, Devil’s Den is a karst window. At some point in the past, the land above the subterranean river collapsed. We can now see into the earth below.
The sinkhole that forms Devil’s Den features a constant water temperature of 72 degrees. It is reaches a maximum depth of 54 feet deep and 120 feet across.
It has been privately owned and operated as an attraction since the 1990’s.
Why is it Called Devil’s Den?
On cold winter mornings, steam rises from the underground spring through the hole in the ground. This could be why early settlers named it Devil’s Den.
What Can You Do at Devil’s Den?
Devil’s Den is a popular scuba diving destination, but you can also snorkel. Unfortunately, general swimming is not allowed at Devil’s Den. To enter, you must have a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Arrival at Devil’s Den
Once you arrive at Devil’s Den, you’ll park and head towards the office. There, you will fill out required waivers. Then, you’ll pick up your snorkel gear (or scuba gear). Next, you’ll be able to access the changing rooms and get ready. Finally, you’ll descend the stairs into Devil’s Den.
What Will You See Inside Devil’s Den?
As a snorkeler, we were able to check out ancient rock formations of the spring through the crystal clear water and watch scuba divers explore below us. There were a number of fish congregating under the dock to see, as well as Nelson – the resident turtle.
After swimming and snorkeling for about an hour, we felt as if we had seen it all and were ready to head out.
Fun Fact: There are caves connected to the sinkhole, but they cannot be accessed. However, animal and human remains have been found in the cave system. The fossils date back to the Pleistocene age and have included mastodons, horses, bears, and cats – along with other prehistoric artifacts.
Must Know Information Before Visiting Devil’s Den
- Know how to swim. You must be a good swimmer that is comfortable in deep water.
- Reservations required for snorkelers. Reservations are currently required to visit Devil’s Den.
- Reservations not required for scuba divers. Reservations are not required to visit Devil’s Den as a scuba diver, unless doing a night dive. However, you’ll need an Open Water Certification and a dive buddy. Get additional information on the Devil’s Den website.
- Hours. Devil’s Den is open every day except Christmas, with the last water entry at 4pm.
- Leave your valuables in your car. You cannot take anything into Devil’s Den and will be required to leave shoes, towels, and bags at picnic tables. Since you cannot see the picnic tables while inside Devil’s Den, it is advised to leave your valuables locked in your car.
- Leave Fido at home. Pets are not allowed at Devil’s Den.
- Rental gear is available. Rental gear is available for both snorkelers and scuba divers.
- You can get scuba certified. If you are interested in getting scuba certified, Devil’s Den is a certified scuba training center. However, you’ll need to book through a third party instructor. Devil’s Den does not provide scuba diving instruction.
- If you don’t snorkel or scuba, you cannot enter. If someone in your party is not interested in snorkeling or scuba diving, they cannot enter Devil’s Den. Instead, they can wander the grounds for $7.
- Camping available. If you need somewhere to stay, Devil’s Den has onsite cabins and RV or tent spaces.
Whether you are looking to take a break from the theme parks, or you are a looking to explore a hidden gem – we recommend a trip to Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring.
Interested in visiting other springs? View our list of favorites.