Devil’s Den – Haunted Battlefield Landmark in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Devil’s Den is one of Gettysburg’s most eerie and blood-soaked battle sites.

It was a key location during the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. Many soldiers died in brutal, close-range combat among the jagged rocks.

Today, visitors say the spirits of those fallen soldiers still linger.

Historical Background

Year Built: Natural rock formation, but became a significant site in 1863 during the Civil War
Original Purpose: Used as a strategic position during the Battle of Gettysburg
Significant Events:
- On July 2, 1863, fierce fighting broke out here between Union and Confederate troops.
- The area became known for its high death toll and gruesome scenes, with bodies left among the rocks for days.
- A photo by Alexander Gardner showing a dead Confederate sniper sparked rumors of the site being cursed.

Visitors often report ghostly apparitions of Civil War soldiers.
Cameras and phones stop working or delete photos taken near the rocks.
Sudden drops in temperature, sounds of gunfire, and disembodied voices are commonly heard.
A barefoot soldier in a gray uniform is the most well-known ghost. He is said to speak to visitors before vanishing.

By the way, have you visited this haunted place in Pennsylvania State? Mishler Theatre – Haunted Historic Theatre in Altoona, Pennsylvania

The barefoot Confederate soldier is often seen walking among the rocks, warning people “What you’re looking for is over there,” then disappearing.
Tourists report their electronics malfunctioning or pictures coming out blurry with strange shadows.
Others hear muffled cries, drum rolls, and even cannon fire, though no reenactments are happening.
Locals believe the soldier’s spirit is trying to help tourists find the exact battle positions or avoid danger.
Some believe Devil’s Den has a spiritual doorway, with trapped souls repeating their final moments.

Speaking of haunted places, don’t forget to also check this place in Pennsylvania State? Van Sant Covered Bridge – Haunted Bridge in New Hope, Pennsylvania

The central rock formations are said to be the most active.
This is where the sniper was photographed and where many visitors report seeing the ghostly soldier.

The paranormal doesn’t stop here—this haunted place might also interest you in Pennsylvania State? Historic Hotel Bethlehem – Haunted Hotel in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Open to the Public? Yes
Entry Fee: Free
Tour Availability: Ranger-led battlefield tours available; ghost tours offered by local operators at night
Photography Allowed? Yes (though cameras may not work properly)
Visiting Hours? Sunrise to sunset

Fall and early winter evenings, especially around anniversary dates in July, see the most reports of activity.

The site has been featured on Ghost Adventures and other paranormal shows.
Multiple teams have recorded EVPs (electronic voice phenomena) and temperature fluctuations.
Some investigators claim to have captured shadowy figures moving through the rocks.

If you’re brave enough to visit Devil’s Den, just know you might not be alone.

And if a barefoot soldier tells you where to look—maybe listen. Or maybe run.