In the midst of North Florida’s sandy terrain and pine forests, a bowl-shaped cavity 120 feet deep leads down to a miniature rain forest. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park is located at 4732 Millhopper Road in Gainesville Florida. For more information, click here.
Small streams trickle down the steep slopes of the limestone sinkhole, disappearing through crevices in the ground. Lush vegetation thrives in the shade of the walls even in dry summers.
Researchers have learned a great deal about Florida’s natural history by studying fossil shark teeth, marine shells and the fossilized remains of extinct land animals found within this park!
The boardwalk system that descends to the bottom of the Devil’s Millhopper is open. A half-mile nature trail meanders along the top of the sinkhole. Dogs on a hand-held 6-foot leash are welcome. Guided walks with a ranger are available every Saturday at 10 a.m. Special guided walks for groups are available by reservation.
Visitors to the park over the years have found several prehistoric archaeological artifacts such as arrowheads, but the exact locations of any discoveries remain unknown. These incidental finds seem to indicate at least early visitation to the area, if not habitation.
The park is a popular spot for a quick escape from town for a picnic. Squirrels, rabbits and a variety of reptiles and amphibians can be seen in the park. Birds of the pinelands and suburbs are also commonly sighted. The visitor center offers exhibits explaining the formation of the Devil’s Millhopper.
