Hell’s Hole Sinkhole
A dramatic, deep sinkhole with clear green water, nestled in a scenic forest, offering breathtaking views and diving opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Hell’s Hole Sinkhole
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, deep sinkhole with clear green water, nestled in a scenic forest, offering breathtaking views and diving opportunities.
"Striking natural landmark with a dramatic drop and clear green water, worth the drive through the forest."
Check Fire Bans First
Forest reserves close during total fire bans. Always check conditions before you go! :fire:
Drive Carefully on Dirt Roads
Roads are generally good, but can be slippery when wet. Drive cautiously. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sinkhole Itself
Caveton
A dramatic 45m wide, 25m deep sinkhole with striking green water contrasting against rocky walls.
Caged Viewing Platform
Overlooking the sinkhole
Step out over the edge for an unparalleled, albeit dizzying, view into the depths.
Scenic Forest Drive
Approaching Hell's Hole
Enjoy a pleasant drive through pine forests on well-maintained dirt roads, a fun experience for drivers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Hell's Hole
Viewing and Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Fire Bans First
Forest reserves close during total fire bans. Always check conditions before you go! :fire:
Drive Carefully on Dirt Roads
Roads are generally good, but can be slippery when wet. Drive cautiously. :car:
Brave the Cage!
Don't let heights deter you; the caged platform offers a safe and rewarding view. :camerawithflash:
No Facilities On-Site
Pack water and snacks. No toilets or picnic areas available. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Fire Bans First
Forest reserves close during total fire bans. Always check conditions before you go! :fire:
Drive Carefully on Dirt Roads
Roads are generally good, but can be slippery when wet. Drive cautiously. :car:
Brave the Cage!
Don't let heights deter you; the caged platform offers a safe and rewarding view. :camerawithflash:
No Facilities On-Site
Pack water and snacks. No toilets or picnic areas available. :water_wave:
Consider Nearby Sites
Combine with Caroline Sinkhole for a brief visit. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hell's Hole a striking natural landmark, appreciating the scenic drive through pine forests and the dramatic view from the caged platform. While the sinkhole's depth and clear green water are impressive, some find it a brief visit with limited facilities. It's particularly noted for its appeal to divers.
"During our day of exploring from Mount Gambier we decided to visit Hells Hole at Caveton, located about 20 km (roughly a 22-minute drive) from town. The drive takes you through pine forests, and once inside the reserve, clear signage points you towards the trail. There is a small car park at the trailhead, and when we visited we had the entire place to ourselves, adding to the quiet and somewhat eerie atmosphere.
The sinkhole itself is striking, approximately 45 metres wide and 25 metres deep, with a dramatic drop down to the water below. From the secure caged viewing platform, you can step out and look directly over the edge. The drop to the water is about 38 metres, and while some people might feel anxious leaning over, the structure is very sturdy and well built. The green water at the bottom contrasted with the rocky walls makes for an unusual and fascinating sight.
It’s worth noting that if there is a total fire ban, the forest reserve will be closed, and you won’t be able to access the path or site, so check ahead before planning a visit.
For those exploring the Limestone Coast region, Hells Hole is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. A unique natural feature in a peaceful forest setting."
John Winter
"Great natural landmark, down the logging tracks. About 13 min walk in some incline walking, small caged platform to take photos. Can be tricky to take pics. Apparently geologists dive here?"
Rhiannon Jackson-Lematua
"The real winner here is the road to Hells hole. I was expecting to be crawling along some corrugated gravel road, not sailing along in 5th gear on a smooth and hard surface. Awesome fun driving along it and low car friendly.
The sinkhole is a short pleasant walk through a plantation, I encourage people who take issue with heights to brave stepping in the cage, its worth it."
Seanbethyname
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hell's Hole is about a 20-minute drive (22 km) from Mount Gambier, taking you through pine forests on SA Forestry dirt roads. The roads are generally smooth and suitable for most cars, though they can become slippery in wet conditions. Clear signage within the forest reserve will guide you to the site. +1
The roads leading to Hell's Hole are described as smooth and hard-surfaced, making them low-car friendly and fun to drive. However, it's advised to exercise caution, especially after rain, as they can become slippery.
The walk from the car park to the sinkhole is described as short and pleasant, though it can be very slippery in wet weather. +1
No, if there is a total fire ban, the forest reserve will be closed, and access to Hell's Hole will be restricted. It's crucial to check fire ban status before your visit.
There are no facilities at Hell's Hole, including toilets or picnic areas. Visitors are advised to bring their own water and snacks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of ticket requirements for visiting Hell's Hole. It appears to be a natural attraction accessible via forest roads.
As a natural sinkhole within a forest reserve, there are no set opening hours. However, access may be restricted during total fire bans.
Based on traveler accounts, there is no entrance fee mentioned for Hell's Hole.
Yes, Hell's Hole is a popular spot for cave divers. However, diving requires specific cave diving qualifications and a permit from the local council. 
The sinkhole is approximately 25 meters deep, with the water level at the bottom being about 38 meters from the viewing platform.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Taking photos can be tricky due to the caged platform and the depth. Leaning out over the edge, while secure, requires a steady hand. Be mindful not to drop your camera!
The caged platform allows you to step out and look directly down into the sinkhole, offering a striking view of the green water against the rocky walls.
Yes, the unique geological formation and the contrast of the water and rock make Hell's Hole a photogenic spot, especially for those interested in natural landscapes.
Although the water appears black from above, it is actually crystal clear, attracting divers.
While Hell's Hole itself has a specific viewing platform, nearby sinkholes like Caroline Sinkhole might offer different photographic perspectives.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife
While exploring the surrounding areas, visitors have reported seeing possums, especially around dusk near other sinkholes like the Garden Sinkhole.
Hell's Hole is situated within a forest reserve, surrounded by pine plantations. The drive to the site is through these scenic woodlands. +1
Yes, Hell's Hole is part of the Limestone Coast region, which boasts over 50 water-filled sinkholes and 800 caves, including the Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole.
The sinkhole water is primarily for diving by qualified individuals. It is not recommended for casual swimming due to its depth and the nature of the site.
The water itself is crystal clear, but the depth and the surrounding rock formations can give it a striking green hue when viewed from above.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that there are no facilities, so pack essentials. The walk to the sinkhole is short but can be slippery, so ensure children wear appropriate footwear. Consider combining this visit with other family-friendly attractions in the Mount Gambier area, like the Umpherston Sinkhole, where possums are often seen.
+1🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's a perfect addition to a day exploring the region's unique geological features. Combine it with visits to the Blue Lake, Cave Gardens, or other nearby sinkholes for a comprehensive natural exploration. Remember to check for fire bans, as this can affect access to the forest reserve.
+1🤿 Adventure Seekers & Divers
+1Even if you're not a diver, the site offers a sense of adventure. The drive through the forest and the dramatic view from the caged platform provide a thrilling experience. It's a place that speaks to the raw power and beauty of nature, appealing to those who seek out unique natural wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Diving of Hell's Hole
For experienced divers, Hell's Hole offers a unique challenge. Accessing the water typically involves specialized techniques like Single Rope Technique (SRT) for descent and ascent, requiring advanced cave diving certifications and permits from the local council. The clear water and the submerged environment present an intriguing world for those equipped to explore it.
+1While the sinkhole is a draw for divers, it also serves as a fascinating natural landmark for visitors who prefer to stay on solid ground. The secure, caged viewing platform allows for a dramatic perspective into the earth's depths, offering a glimpse into the powerful forces that shape the Limestone Coast's unique landscape.
Experiencing Hell's Hole: From Drive to View
Upon arrival, a short, pleasant walk leads you to the sinkhole. While the path can be slippery in wet conditions, the effort is rewarded. The sinkhole itself is a striking sight, approximately 45 meters wide, with a dramatic drop to the green, clear water below.
The main viewing point is a sturdy, caged platform that extends over the edge, allowing visitors to look directly down. While the height might be daunting for some, the secure structure provides a safe vantage point to appreciate the sinkhole's scale and beauty. It's a place that offers a sense of awe and a connection to the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit