Florida has always been a top American vacation destination travelers visit throughout the year. The weather is warm, the tropical breeze is high, and there’s plenty to see and do throughout the Sunshine State. As if you needed another reason to visit Florida, the city of Williston has a hidden gem where water and magic collide.
A prehistoric underwater world, Devil’s Den Spring is an incredible experience for travelers of every age. There is an abundance of water sports to enjoy including scuba diving, swimming, and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. Around the spring, travelers will find even more activities to dive into. One of the oldest springs in the United States, Devil’s Den is a magical place worth visiting on your next trip to Florida.
A Prehistoric Experience
Although its exact age is unknown, many believe that Devil’s Den Spring has been around for 33 million years. Archaeologists and scientists have found fossils dating back to the Pleistocene Age all around the underground spring. Despite its age, many travelers are unaware of the incredible adventures awaiting them in the spring.
Located about 21 miles from Gainesville, Williston sits in the heart of Levy County. Apart of Florida’s Nature Coast, the city is known for its natural landscapes, wild terrain, and wildlife. Here travelers will find Devil’s Den.
From the surface, the spring goes down approximately 54 feet underwater. Purchased by the current owners in 1993, Devil’s Den has been transformed into the ultimate hub for water adventures and outdoor explorations. With pristine weather and warm water that stays above 72 degrees year-round, Devil’s Den should be at the top of every outdoor traveler’s bucket list.
Fun For The Entire Family
There’s plenty of fun and adventure to tap into on a trip to Devil’s Den Spring. One of the main attractions in the spring is scuba diving. The location is a certified scuba diving training center and offers diving seven days a week. Only certified divers are allowed to dive and they must be accompanied by a diving buddy.
If you’re heading to Devil’s Den without a scuba diving license, there are still many things for you to enjoy. The center also offers 90-minute snorkeling sessions every day of the week. Both adults and children can enjoy gazing beneath the crystal clear water of Devil’s Den. Children under six are not permitted to snorkel or dive at Devil’s Den.
Travelers can stay the night at Devil’s Den by booking one of their cabins, RV’s or setting up on their camping grounds. Surrounding the spring, you’ll find other exciting nature grounds to explore like the Cedar Lakes Woods and Garden and Nature Preserve. You can also check out prehistoric fossils found in Devil’s Den at the University of Florida’s Museum of Natural History in Gainesville.
Things To Know
There are a few things travelers should know before heading out to explore Devil’s Den. Travelers under 18 are not permitted into the spring without a legal guardian. Additionally, all visitors must complete an insurance waiver upon entering the property. While it may be tempting to bring along your pet, the property is not four-legged friend-friendly. So be sure to leave your animals at home.
A true Floridian hidden gem, Devil’s Den is a one-of-a-kind destination. You won’t find many underground waterways as ancient or enchanting as this one.
