Devils Den USA

Discover the captivating Devil’s Den, a geological marvel near Williston, Florida. This privately-owned site serves as both a SCUBA diving training facility and a recreational haven.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 29.409433, -82.475131
• Depth: 60 ft
• Remarks:
• Type: Cavern, OW

Geothermal Waters and Mysterious Plumes

• Geothermal Comfort: Dive into the underground river at Devil’s Den, where the water maintains a geothermally warmed temperature of 72°F (22°C), ensuring a comfortable experience for divers year-round.
• Weather Effects: During colder weather, watch as water vapor rises from the river’s surface, creating a visible plume above the cave entrance. Early settlers likened this phenomenon to a chimney from Hell, inspiring the site’s intriguing name.

Historical Changes and Enhanced Access

• Evolution of the Entrance: Originally, the entrance to Devil’s Den was a small solution sinkhole, requiring visitors to squeeze through to reach the water. However, in the 1990s, efforts were made to enlarge the opening, making access more convenient.
• Inverted Mushroom Shape: Below the water’s surface, the cave expands in an “inverted mushroom” shape, reaching widths of up to 200 feet (61 meters). The maximum depth of the cave is approximately 54 feet (16.5 meters), with a surface diameter of 120 feet.
• Water Levels: Over time, the water level in the cave has fluctuated with changes in the water table in the area. As of 2018, the water level has risen above the main stage/platform.

A Glimpse into the Past

• Underwater Passages: Devil’s Den features four underwater passages extending from the pool, ranging from 5 feet (1.5 meters) to 90 feet (27 meters) below the water’s surface.
• Chamber 3 Discoveries: At a depth of 70 feet (21 meters) underwater, Chamber 3 revealed a remarkable find—an array of animal and human remains along with artifacts. The animal remains belonged to extinct Pleistocene species, including mastodons, ground sloths, camels, horses, dire wolves, bog lemmings, Florida spectacled bears, saber-toothed cats, and peccaries.
• Ancient Origins: Studies have dated the human remains to around 7,500 BC. A more recent analysis of rare earth elements in the bones discovered in the cave suggests that both human and Pleistocene animal bones are approximately 13,000 years old.

Devil’s Den invites divers and enthusiasts to explore its fascinating depths, where geological wonders and historical treasures await. Whether you’re embarking on a dive or seeking a unique natural experience, Devil’s Den promises a journey through time and nature’s beauty.

Devils Den Diving Deaths

The Tragic Dive: The Mystery of Devil’s Den

Devil’s Den Images

FAQ