Devil's Well: Missouri's Subterranean Secret
Explore Missouri's hidden wonder: Descend into Devil's Well and witness the beauty of its vast underground lake within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
Devil's Well, located near Salem, Missouri, is a collapsed sinkhole leading to the state's largest underground lake. A spiral staircase descends into the earth, offering a glimpse into this unique geological formation.
A brief summary to Devil's Well
- Devil's Well Rd, Salem, Missouri, 65560, US
- +1573-323-4236
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours, as the site is not open at night.
- Bring a flashlight or spotlight for a better view of the underground lake, even though there is a motion-activated light.
- The road to Devil's Well is steep and rough; it's not recommended for trailers or large motorhomes.
- Consider hiking the 4.6-mile trail to Cave Spring to see where the water from Devil's Well emerges.
Getting There
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Car
From Salem, Missouri, head north on Highway 19. Turn west onto Route KK and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Devil's Well Road and follow it for a couple of miles to the parking area. The road is steep and rough. There are no parking fees.
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Public Transport
Take a bus or shuttle to Salem, MO. From there, arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to Devil's Well, approximately 10 miles northwest of Salem. Taxi/rideshare costs may vary.
Discover more about Devil's Well
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White River Trace Historical Marker
35.3 km
Commemorating a historic route through Missouri, the White River Trace marks a poignant segment of the Trail of Tears and westward expansion.
Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo
59.9 km
Experience the Australian Outback in the Missouri Ozarks: Kangaroos, caves, and family fun await at Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo!
Shut-Ins Trail
60.0 km
Hike through a billion years of geological history at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, where the East Fork Black River creates a natural waterpark.
Johnson Shut-Ins
60.5 km
Explore a billion-year-old natural waterpark in the Missouri Ozarks. Swim, hike, and discover the unique beauty of Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Rolla Lions Club Den and Park
66.2 km
A serene escape in Rolla, MO, featuring a beautiful pond, walking trails, playgrounds, and community events for all ages.
Los Arcos Mexican Food & Tequila Bar
66.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and a vibrant tequila bar at Los Arcos in Rolla, Missouri. Fresh ingredients, friendly service, and a festive atmosphere.
Twitty Arboretum
66.7 km
Discover a peaceful sanctuary in Rolla, Missouri, with diverse flora and tranquil walking paths at Twitty Arboretum.
Rustic Motel, Rolla, Missouri
66.9 km
Experience the rustic charm of the Rustic Motel in Rolla, Missouri, your cozy retreat for exploring the beauty of the Ozarks and local attractions.
Mandarin Garden
67.1 km
A Rolla favorite for Chinese and American cuisine, offering a diverse buffet with fresh, flavorful dishes in a welcoming setting.
A Slice of Pie
67.2 km
Rolla's iconic pie shop, serving homemade sweet and savory pies with generous portions since 1986. A taste of tradition in every slice!
Uniquely Yours Knitting & Quilting Center
67.5 km
Rolla's premier knitting and quilting destination, offering a wide selection of yarns, fabrics, and crafting supplies for all skill levels.
Missouri University of Science and Technology's Experimental Mine
67.8 km
Explore a real-world mining environment at Missouri S&T's Experimental Mine, where students learn and the public discovers the world beneath our feet.
Bishop Commons
67.8 km
Explore the vibrant shopping and dining options at Bishop Commons in Rolla, Missouri, where local charm meets retail excitement.
Phelps County Historical Society
68.1 km
Discover the captivating history of Rolla, Missouri, at the Phelps County Historical Society, where local stories come to life through engaging exhibits.
Di Trapani's On The Square
68.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a historic setting at Di Trapani's On The Square, Rolla, MO. Fresh pasta, seafood, and homemade desserts await!
Unmissable attractions to see
Welch Spring Hospital Ruins
7.6 km
Explore the haunting beauty of Welch Spring Hospital Ruins, a historic gem nestled in Missouri's stunning Ozark landscape.
Current River State Park
7.9 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure at Current River State Park in Missouri, a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Echo Bluff State Park
10.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities at Echo Bluff State Park in Missouri, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Round Spring Cave
12.5 km
Discover the enchanting Round Spring Cave in Missouri's Ozarks, a stunning natural wonder filled with history and captivating geological formations.
FLATNASTY Off-Road Park
13.5 km
Explore the exhilarating trails and stunning landscapes of FLATNASTY Off-Road Park, the ultimate destination for off-road adventures and camping in Missouri.
Bo's Hollow
17.9 km
Experience the charm of Bo's Hollow, a delightful tourist attraction in Salem, Missouri, featuring BBQ areas and breathtaking natural landscapes perfect for picnics.
Montauk State Park
19.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Montauk State Park, a hidden gem in Missouri's Ozarks, perfect for all nature lovers.
Loggers Lake Campground
20.4 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Loggers Lake Campground, a perfect blend of nature, peace, and outdoor fun in Missouri.
Roger Pryor Pioneer Backcountry
23.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Roger Pryor Pioneer Backcountry, a premier hiking destination in Missouri’s serene wilderness.
Alley Spring & Mill
25.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history of Alley Spring & Mill, a captivating destination in the heart of Missouri's Ozarks.
Klepzig Mill
37.9 km
Explore the historic Klepzig Mill in Winona, Missouri, where history meets nature in a stunning Ozark setting.
Rocky Falls Shut-ins
39.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Rocky Falls Shut-ins in Missouri, where stunning waterfalls and hiking trails create a perfect escape into nature.
Indian Trail Conservation Area
40.8 km
Discover tranquility at Indian Trail Conservation Area, a stunning nature preserve in Missouri perfect for hiking, wildlife observation, and relaxation.
Sutton Bluff Recreation Area
44.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sutton Bluff Recreation Area, a serene campground in Missouri perfect for camping, hiking, and immersing in nature.
Dillard Mill State Historic Site
45.8 km
Explore the historic Dillard Mill State Historic Site in Missouri, where stunning nature meets rich heritage in a perfect day out.
Essential places to dine
The Jadwin Outpost / Outpost Trading & Grill Llc
14.0 km
Discover delightful dining at The Jadwin Outpost - where great food meets breathtaking views near the Current River.
Dos Rios Mexican Grill
27.2 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors in Eminence at Dos Rios Mexican Grill - where every meal is a fiesta!
Current River Kitchen
28.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in a cozy setting at Current River Kitchen in Salem, Missouri.
Pizza Hut
29.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of flavors at Pizza Hut in Salem - where delicious pizza meets friendly service.
Miller's Grill
42.7 km
Experience mouthwatering grilled delights at Miller's Grill in Houston, MO – where flavor meets hospitality in a charming setting.
Redbeard's Steak and Seafood
58.6 km
Discover delightful dining at Redbeard's Steak and Seafood in Van Buren—where every bite is a celebration of flavor!
Smalley's Convenience & Deli
59.5 km
Discover Smalley's Convenience & Deli in Van Buren – where quick meals meet local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
The Beavers Teeth
59.7 km
Discover delightful local cuisine at The Beavers Teeth in Van Buren – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Jolly Cone on the Current
59.7 km
Discover Jolly Cone on the Current: where delicious fast food meets stunning river views in Van Buren, Missouri.
Las Margaritas
59.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Las Margaritas in Van Buren - where every meal is a celebration of tradition.
The Landing - Current River
60.3 km
Discover thrilling adventures and delightful dining at The Landing - Current River in Van Buren, Missouri.
Godfather’s Pizza Express
60.4 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Godfather's Pizza Express in Van Buren - where every slice tells a delicious story.
The Blue Heron Restaurant at The Landing
60.4 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine amidst stunning river views at The Blue Heron Restaurant – where fine dining meets live music.
Imo's Pizza
67.2 km
Experience the unique flavors of St. Louis-style pizza at Imo's Pizza in Rolla—where every slice tells a story.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
67.5 km
Experience American cuisine at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Rolla – where family-friendly dining meets delicious food and great service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Windmill Flowers and More Co
26.5 km
Explore the enchanting Windmill Flowers and More Co in Bunker, Missouri, where unique gifts and stunning floral arrangements await every visitor.
Our Monkey Shack
30.2 km
Explore the charming Our Monkey Shack in Salem, Missouri – a sewing shop and flea market with unique fabrics, garments, and local crafts.
A Gypsy's Dream
33.8 km
Discover unique treasures and vintage finds at A Gypsy's Dream, a charming antique store in Salem, Missouri, where history and nostalgia come alive.
Bixby Country Store
46.0 km
Explore Bixby Country Store: Your charming stop for convenience and delightful ice cream in the heart of Missouri.
G&W Foods
49.1 km
Experience the charm of G&W Foods in Viburnum, Missouri, where friendly service and quality groceries come together for a delightful shopping experience.
DG Market
49.1 km
Discover DG Market in Viburnum, Missouri – your convenient, affordable grocery store for all your travel essentials.
TINY TYLER’S TIRES LLC
54.4 km
Explore the beauty of Missouri with peace of mind, thanks to Tiny Tyler’s Tires LLC, your trusted tire shop in Lesterville.
Dollar General
57.6 km
Explore Dollar General in Lesterville for unbeatable deals on essentials, snacks, and seasonal goods, perfect for your travel needs.
JACKS CONVENIENCE
57.8 km
Experience convenience and local charm at JACKS CONVENIENCE, your go-to stop in Lesterville for snacks, beverages, and travel essentials.
Lesterville Florist & Gifts
57.8 km
Discover the charm of Lesterville Florist & Gifts, where vibrant blooms and unique gifts await in the heart of Missouri.
Campground Store
59.3 km
Explore the Campground Store in Middle Brook, Missouri, your friendly stop for camping supplies and local treasures in the heart of nature.
Current River Trading Post
59.7 km
Explore the Current River Trading Post for unique antiques and local crafts in Van Buren, Missouri, a must-visit for all vintage lovers.
Goggins Mountain Trailhead
60.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Goggins Mountain Trailhead, your gateway to adventure in Missouri's stunning natural landscapes.
TRU Boutique
65.0 km
Explore TRU Boutique in Rolla, MO for trendy women's clothing and accessories at affordable prices, perfect for every fashion lover.
Hobby Lobby
66.6 km
Discover endless creativity at Hobby Lobby, your go-to destination for crafts, fabrics, home goods, and inspiration in Rolla, Missouri.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
JB Malone's Bar & Grill
29.7 km
Discover a vibrant grill experience at JB Malone's Bar & Grill, where delicious cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere in Salem, Missouri.
Casey's
49.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of pizza and convenience at Casey's in Viburnum, Missouri, where every bite is a slice of happiness.
Viburnum Inn
49.1 km
Savor the flavors of America at Viburnum Inn, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Viburnum, MO, known for its hearty dishes and warm hospitality.
Viburnum Inn Motel and Restaurant
49.1 km
Experience the charm and comfort of Viburnum Inn Motel and Restaurant, your perfect base for exploring Missouri's scenic Ozarks.
Viburnum Eagles club lodge
50.0 km
Discover the heart of Viburnum at Eagles Club Lodge, where local hospitality meets charming community spirit in Missouri's picturesque Ozarks.
Pole Bridge Tavern
55.0 km
Discover the charm of Pole Bridge Tavern in Missouri, where rustic ambiance meets delicious food and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
21 Yard Line Bar and Grill
57.9 km
Experience the ultimate combination of sports, great food, and a friendly atmosphere at 21 Yard Line Bar and Grill in Lesterville, Missouri.
Three Forks Cafe and Home Cookin
58.0 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of homestyle cooking at Three Forks Cafe, where every meal is a taste of local charm and comfort.
Wilderness Lodge Resort
58.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Wilderness Lodge Resort, a serene escape in Missouri's stunning landscapes.
Riversedge Campground
59.0 km
Experience nature's beauty at Riversedge Campground, a serene escape in Missouri perfect for families, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lenny's
59.4 km
Discover Lenny's in Lesterville – a delightful restaurant, grocery, and liquor store offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Scour Trail
60.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Scour Trail in Ironton, MO – a must-visit hiking area for outdoor lovers seeking adventure amidst nature's beauty.
Deer Creek Campgrounds
62.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Deer Creek Campgrounds - your perfect escape into the heart of Missouri's stunning nature.
Twain's Vineyard
64.3 km
Experience the charm of Missouri at Twain's Vineyard, where exceptional wines meet stunning landscapes for the perfect getaway.
Locker's House Bar & Grill
69.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Locker's House Bar & Grill, a must-visit spot in Rolla, Missouri for food and fun.