A Daring Dive Awaits at the Devil’s Den in Florida

Although Gainesville, Florida, is a bustling city, you might be surprised to find that it’s actually filled with some amazing natural wonders. One of the most thrilling outdoor excursions in the area is taking a swim in the Devil’s Den in Florida. Just as daring as it sounds, this underground, natural spring submerges you into the depths of its still but rocky waters.

Are you searching for more excursions in nature? Check out our complimentary Vacation Guide for a comprehensive list of the best outdoor adventures you can find in Gainesville.

 

Text reads access our vacation guide. Image of blue underwater bubbles light at the surface

 

What to Expect at the Devil’s Den in Florida

What is Devil’s Den?

Devil’s Den Spring is a naturally formed, underground spring that has a maximum depth of 54 feet and maintains a temperature of 72 degrees year-round. This means, if you’re planning a road trip during the winter months, you can comfortably delve into these warm waters! In fact, on cool mornings, you can see rolling steam rising through the forestry. This eerie mist is actually what gave the site its’ name.

The rock formations that surround the waters also add to the daring feel of the spring. These ominous rocks contain fossil beds that are up to 33 million years old. If you want to learn more about the animals that made their mark on this area during the Pleistocene Age, stop by the University of Florida’s Museum of Natural History to view exhibits of these creatures.

What to Do at Devil’s Den

There’s a variety of activities to do during a visit to Devil’s Den Spring. Dare to dive into the depths of the clear waters on a scuba diving expedition. If you really want to live on the edge, you can even go on a night dive to get a different look at the rugged, geologic formations.

If you’d rather steer clear of the deep dive, you can opt for a day of snorkeling instead! Glide through the water with a pair of fins while you admire the crystal clear waters that reveal rugged underwater terrain. It’s amazing that such pristine nature lies just outside the bustling city!

Looking for More?

If your outing at Devil’s Den made you fall in love with the breathtaking spring, you’d be happy do to find so many more excursions like this within the area! Ginnie Springs is another beautiful, water-filled destination that’s less than an hour from Devil’s Den, and Poe Springs Park offers both great swimming and fantastic hiking.

Book a Secret Oasis in a Lively CityView of Luisa's Room

While you may be surprised by the natural elements of Devil’s Den in Florida, Sweetwater Branch Inn offers its own secret oasis within the lively state. We’ve landscaped a large, beautiful garden to contrast the modern city outside our doors. A stay in Luisa’s Room continues your immersion into an understated paradise with a private, luxurious six-foot whirlpool tub that reminds you of your time in the spring! Book your stay now and uncover the endless possibilities waiting here in Gainesville, Florida.

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