Located in the small town of Williston, Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is a natural pool formed by an underground river and karst window. This privately owned cave spring facility is used for unique snorkeling experiences and scuba diving training.
Natural Warm Springs Pool
Devil’s Den formed over millions of years with the help of the natural river current and organic material turning into soft limestone. In the early 1990s, the entrance was relatively small and comparable to that of a sinkhole.
It has been enlarged since then due to increased visitors to make it more accessible. The surface diameter of the 72℉ swimming hole is 120 feet long, and the deepest point is 54 feet down.
The current owners of the pool purchased it in 1993 to make it a top-notch attraction. Inside this dry cave, many fossils of prehistoric animals have been discovered over the years and donated to The University of Florida’s Museum of Natural History. The crystal-clear waters give it fantastic visibility to great depths, and during the winter, the hole gives off steam when it’s cold outside.
Activities: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The spring is not open for swimming, but visitors can snorkel and scuba dive. The facility is available 364 days a year, with Christmas Day being the only day it’s closed. Fees are charged per person for snorkeling and swimming.
Snorkeling
Visitors who want to snorkel in the cave spring must make a reservation, but no certification is needed. Kids under six are not permitted to swim in the den, and other minors under 18 need to have a chaperone. Snorkeling is available seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm on Mondays-Thursdays, and 8 am to 5 pm on Fridays-Sundays.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is offered seven days a week to participants who have a clearance of “Open Water” and above. A diving partner is required, and visitors ages 7-18 need a chaperone. Kids under six are not allowed to enter Devil’s Den. Dive times are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and can’t be reserved ahead of time unless it’s a night dive.
Cabins and Camping
Staying at one of the property’s accommodations is a great way to experience the outdoors and be close to the pool. Prices for lodging don’t include dive or snorkel entry fees.
Cabins
For guests aged 21 and older, there are four cabins that each fit four people. No animals are allowed inside these buildings, and there is a two-night stay minimum. Reservations are required.
RV Campsites
Most of the 32 RV campsites have 30/50 amp hookups with water and sewage. These spots are suitable for RVs 25 feet long or less and require reservations.
Tent Camping
Families, friends, and solo campers enjoy stargazing from one of the property’s tent campsites. Amenities include port-a-potties and showers. A few of the tent sites have water and electricity. All tent campers must check in by 5 pm; there are no late check-ins.
Details
Address: 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, Florida 32696
Phone: 352-528-3344
Season: Year-round, open daily except for Christmas Day
Pets: Not allowed on the property
Website: devilsden.com
Alexander Springs Recreation Area – Altoona, Florida