Devil’s Den is one of Florida’s most unique and otherworldly springs, located in Williston. This prehistoric underground spring is hidden inside a dry cave with a circular opening in the ceiling, letting sunlight stream down onto the clear, blue water below. Popular with scuba divers and snorkelers, Devil’s Den offers a surreal experience of swimming beneath ancient limestone formations in water that stays a consistent 72°F year-round. To explore more of Florida’s natural springs, check our Florida springs overview.
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What Should You Know Before Going to Devil’s Den
Devil’s Den is not your typical Florida spring. It’s a privately owned diving site with a focus on snorkeling and scuba experiences rather than casual swimming. You must make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as entry is limited and often sells out.
Only snorkeling and scuba diving are allowed. General swimming is not permitted. All visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and proper gear (mask, snorkel, fins) is required or you can bring your own or rent it on-site.
There’s no natural light underground aside from the central skylight, so visibility depends on the time of day and weather conditions. The site is open year-round, and water stays a consistent 72°F (22°C), making wetsuits optional but often comfortable.
No alcohol or pets are allowed on the property. Facilities include changing rooms, restrooms, picnic tables, and a small gift shop. Visitors are welcome to bring food for a picnic, and shaded spots are available outside the cave.
How to Get to Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
Devil’s Den is located in Williston, which is a small town between Gainesville and Ocala.
If you’re driving from Gainesville, it’s about a 32-minute drive south via US-27. From Ocala, it’s about 40 minutes northwest via FL-27. The spring is easiest to reach by car, as public transportation is not available in the area.
There is free parking on-site, and signs clearly mark the entrance from the road. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft may be limited in this rural region, so planning your transport ahead of time is essential if you’re not using your own vehicle.
Best Time to Visit Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
Devil’s Den is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer tends to be the busiest season, especially on weekends, so making a reservation well in advance is strongly recommended.
The constant 72°F (22°C) spring water makes it a suitable spot even in winter, though the surrounding air can be chilly. If you’re diving or snorkeling in the colder months, a wetsuit will make the experience more comfortable.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs at Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is open seven days a week, with slightly extended hours on weekends. Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Fri–Sun: 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. All divers must exit the water at least 15 minutes before closing time, and the front gate shuts promptly at 5:00 PM every evening. Closed only on Christmas Day.
If you’re planning to go snorkeling, admission is $25 per person. A mask, snorkel, and fins are required to enter the water, and you can either bring your own or rent them on-site. Full snorkeling gear rental bundle – including mask, snorkel, and fins – costs $15, while each item can also be rented individually for $5.50. If you’d like to explore the site without entering the spring, a walk-through pass is available for $7. All reservations require a non-refundable $5 deposit per person.
For scuba divers, admission is $48, with the last dive of the day starting no later than 3:00 PM. There’s also a swimming pool on the property that can be reserved for $15.
Air tank refills are available for $10.50, though the site does not offer nitrox fills. If you need full scuba equipment, you can rent a complete gear bundle for $60 (mask, snorkel, fins, booties, regulator, BCD, tank, wetsuit, weights, and LED light). Individual rental items are also available: wetsuits $21, regulators $25, BCDs $20, tanks $15.50, and weights $1 per pound. You can rent a mask or snorkel for $5.50 each, scuba fins with booties for $9.20, and an LED dive light for $13.80.Importantly, all guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian whether they plan to snorkel, dive, or simply visit the property.
Reservations are required for all visitors, whether you plan to snorkel, dive, or just walk the grounds. Without a reservation, entry is not guaranteed, especially on weekends and holidays, when the site often reaches capacity.
Where to Stay Nearby Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
If you’re planning a visit to Devil’s Den, there are several comfortable places to stay within a short drive. While the spring itself offers on-site lodging, including cabins and tent camping, many travelers opt for nearby hotels in Williston, Gainesville, or Ocala.
On-site lodging at Devil’s Den includes a small number of rustic cabins with basic amenities, along with shaded tent sites. These are ideal for visitors who want to be just steps from the spring for early morning dives or peaceful evenings in nature. Reservations for lodging are highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons.
Recommended stays nearby Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
Best Western Gateway Grand – Gainesville
Located about 30 minutes north of Devil’s Den, this hotel offers modern comfort with an outdoor pool, free hot breakfast, and a fitness center. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want convenience, clean rooms, and access to restaurants and shopping.
Gainesville is a vibrant college town with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and bars. Highlights include the Florida Museum of Natural History with its butterfly garden, the Harn Museum of Art, and the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. In the evening, you can enjoy live music or take a stroll through the historic downtown.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gainesville, FL
About 20 miles north of Devil’s Den, this hotel offers spacious rooms, free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour gym. It’s a reliable mid-range choice for couples or families seeking convenience without sacrificing comfort
You can explore more places to stay and book your preferred option via the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
While Devil’s Den is the kind of place you’ll want to stay and soak in for hours, the surrounding area has more to offer if you’re up for a little exploring.
Just a few minutes down the road, Blue Grotto Dive Resort is another fascinating freshwater diving site. It’s deeper, wider, and more open than Devil’s Den, making it a great contrast if you’re spending a full weekend in the area and want to dive both places.
If you’re into slow mornings and local charm, downtown Williston is a short drive away and has a few cafés, antique stores, and Southern-style diners worth checking out. It’s not big, but it’s got that quiet, small-town vibe that pairs well with a nature-focused trip.
For more time outdoors, Goethe State Forest lies just west of Williston, offering miles of hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. The trails aren’t crowded, and if you’re lucky, you might spot deer, tortoises, or even a hawk overhead.
And if you’re up for a bit more driving, Gainesville is only 32 minutes away, with museums, parks, and a lively college-town atmosphere. It’s a good spot to grab dinner, catch some live music, or just take a break from the quiet nature scene.
Other Hot Springs Nearby Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
North Central Florida has several springs you can easily pair with a visit to Devil’s Den. About 30 minutes south, Rainbow Springs is known for its bright blue water, short trails, and peaceful swimming areas. If you’re heading toward Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs offers a classic Florida spring experience surrounded by palms and old-growth forest. You can also visit Blue Spring State Park, one of Central Florida’s best-known springs, especially popular for swimming and wildlife viewing during the warmer months.