Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful natural springs in the country. So, why not take a day to discover them? In this article, we’ll be highlighting 13 amazing natural springs in the state.
From lush woodlands to deep caves, these sites offer not just recreational opportunities but also a chance for reflection and reconnection with nature. Whether you’re looking for a unique spot for swimming or just want to appreciate Pennsylvania’s wilderness and beauty, these spring sites won’t disappoint.
Not only are these natural springs stunningly beautiful, but they also provide health benefits like improved mental and physical wellbeing. If you’re ready for an adventure unlike any other, keep reading for all the details about these magnificent Pennsylvania springs!
Table of Contents
Omni Bedford Springs Resort
If you’re looking to take a vacation with a side of adventure, Omni Bedford Springs Resort in South Central Pennsylvania should be at the top of your list.
Nestled away in the heart of Cumberland Valley, it offers stunning natural springs that are perfect for swimming and exploring.
At this historic resort, the 600-foot-long outdoor pool is the centrepiece — and it’s fed by natural mountain springs. Its warm temperatures provide a perfect backdrop for some relaxation after a day of exploring the outdoors.
Along with a natural pool, there are other pools heated to different temperatures, a hot tub and saunas.
Frankfort Springs
Frankfort Springs, located in Lawrence County, is one of the most amazing natural springs in Pennsylvania. Nestled among rolling hills and lush greenery, this picturesque spring offers breathtaking views and is a great spot for picnics and outdoor adventures.
The mineral-rich spring produces a constant flow of crystal-clear water which is perfect for swimming, fishing and kayaking. There are also several hiking trails that are designed to take you through the beautiful landscape surrounding the spring. In addition to its natural beauty, Frankfort Springs is also home to some historical sites including the remains of an old railroad line and an abandoned mill site that dates back to the mid-1800s.
Boiling Springs
If you’re looking for some gorgeous natural springs in Pennsylvania, then Boiling Springs is the perfect place for you to stop. Boiling Springs is located in Cumberland County and it’s considered one of the most amazing natural springs in pa due to its crystal clear waters and lush green surroundings.
Not only is Boiling Springs beautiful to look at, but it’s also incredibly useful for restoring energy and vitality. The spring water comes from limestone aquifers deep beneath the earth, giving it a higher mineral content than most other water sources, thus making it excellent for restoring your well-being. Plus, the sulfur that runs through its veins also helps to cleanse and purify your soul.
A few of the minerals you can expect to find in Boiling Springs include:
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Sulfur
• Fluoride
Children’s Lake
Nestled in the town of Boiling Springs, Children’s Lake offers a cool respite from the summer sun. It’s a beautiful place, surrounded by cedar, larch and white pine trees. Children’s Lake is fed by several springs and has an average depth of 10 feet, making it perfect for swimming and canoeing.
If you’re looking to commune with nature, Children’s Lake is a great spot for fishing and wildlife watching. You can look for muskrats, beaver, otter and mink as they dart around the nearby streams or keep an eye out for turtles sunning themselves on logs. For fishermen, there are a variety of fish to catch including bass, catfish and trout.
Black Spring
You may not know about Black Spring, but it’s an amazing natural spring in Pennsylvania. Located off of Big Springs Court in Huntingdon, it’s a little off the beaten path but well worth the visit.
Benefits of Visiting Black Spring
Black Spring is known for its waters’ therapeutic properties and offers a relaxing environment to take in the beauty of nature. Here are some of the benefits you can experience from visiting Black Spring:
• Natural healing – The mineral-rich waters help promote healing and relaxation, as well as reduce stress levels
• Exercise – Its location makes it easy to get some exercise while taking in nature’s beauty; you can go hiking, biking and walking around this beautiful area
• Connect with nature – Take in nature’s beauty through its sights and sounds, including birdsong and wildlife. You can also visit an old mill nearby that adds to the atmosphere.
Big Spring
The sixth amazing natural spring to explore in Pennsylvania is Big Spring. Located in the heart of Boiling Springs, Big Spring is a stunning sight to behold. Measuring 45 feet wide and 20 feet deep, it’s the largest cold-water spring in the state and has been a popular tourist destination for over two centuries!
Big Spring is an amazing reminder of our natural environment and a great place to visit. Here are some of its notable features:
Water source: The water from the spring originates from a limestone aquifer that extends more than three hundred feet underground.
Clear visibility: It’s possible to see up to 20 feet below the surface due to its incredible clarity – making it popular among scuba divers!
Unique wildlife: You might catch sight of wood ducks and other migratory birds that frequent the area, or even see some trout swimming around – the perfect photo opportunity!
Mineral Springs Loop Trail
If you’re up for a bit of a hike, then you should check out the Mineral Springs Loop Trail in Pennsylvania. This five-mile loop offers views of three natural springs and the amazing beauty of nature.
Location
The trail is located in southwestern Pennsylvania, about an hour northeast of Pittsburgh. The route runs along the Youghiogheny River and has an elevation gain of about 400 feet. It’s a moderate trail that’s great for all skill levels!
Wildlife and Nature
The Mineral Springs Loop Trail is absolutely filled with wildlife and nature! You’ll get to see birds, deer, and other animals along the way. Plus, you’ll get to take in some amazing views of the surrounding forests, rivers and streams.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs might be the most well-known natural spring in Pennsylvania. Situated in Morgan County, Berkeley Springs is a public bath and spa fed by warm natural mineral springs.
This amazing natural spring is also known for its historic significance: George Washington frequented the springs, and it was the first spa resort in the United States. The surrounding area even has a few of Washington’s original bathtubs still intact!
Berkeley Springs is not only historically significant—it’s also beautiful. Located in a picturesque park setting, Berkeley Springs has pathways lined with old trees that lead to wooded hills, bubbling brooks and cascading waterfalls. Plus, you can enjoy boating activities like kayaking or canoeing on the nearby Cacapon River.
Hot Springs Near Pennsylvania
It’s no secret that Pennsylvania is home to some of the best natural springs in the country. From spectacular mountain views to stunning waterfalls, there are plenty of stunning spots to explore and relax. But did you know that Pennsylvania also has some natural hot springs?
That’s right—if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, there are several hot springs near Pennsylvania with naturally heated pools ranging from a serene 96°F to a toasty 108°F! Here are a few of them:
Zane Gray Hot Springs – Located just outside of Wellsboro, Zane Gray Hot Springs offers two naturally heated pools, surrounded by lush green woods and stunning views of the Tioga River.
Kinzua East Branch Warm Springs – This spring-fed pool is located along the East Branch Clarion River and temperatures range from 90°F to 98°F.
Valley and Ridge Region of Virginia
When you think of Pennsylvania, you might think of the Pocono Mountains, but did you know that it’s also home to some amazing natural springs? The Valley and Ridge region of Virginia is a great place to explore these stunning natural attractions. Here are just a few of them:
Slab Cabin Run Natural Spring
It is located in the south-central part of the state, this spring is an excellent spot for swimming and exploring. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife, so be sure to bring your binoculars!
Ice Mountain Springs
It is located in the Poconos, these springs are perfect for cooling down on hot summer days or exploring the surrounding forests.
Tioga County Springs
With over 40 distinct springs scattered throughout the region, this area is home to some truly spectacular natural wonders.
Conclusion
Natural springs in Pennsylvania are a delightful way to get outside and explore nature. With their beautiful backdrops and the tranquil sound of flowing water, the springs provide an opportunity for visitors to get in touch with nature and relax. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from the city or just taking a drive to explore the region, these 13 amazing natural water springs in Pennsylvania will be sure to leave you feeling refreshed and re-energized. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and make some memories!
Lisa's Notebook
Wow, Pennsylvania has a lot of springs! My favourite is the little Black Spring, so natural and pretty.