Ballplay Artesian Spring, Ballplay, TN 37885

## Overview Ballplay Artesian Spring is a beloved public drinking spring located in the small community of Ballplay, near Tellico Plains in Monroe County, Tennessee. Situated at a convenient T-intersection along TN Route 360, this artesian spring has long served as a refreshing stop for locals and travelers passing through the scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The spring delivers naturally pressurized water that rises to the surface without the need for pumping — a hallmark of true artesian springs, which occur when an underground aquifer is confined between impermeable rock layers and the water is under enough pressure to flow upward on its own. Visitors have reported that the water is cool, clean-tasting, and refreshing, and the spring has historically been used as a community drinking water source. A catwalk was built by the local Rotary Club, providing a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the spring water. Across the street, an American flag flies from a flagpole, lending the site a charming, small-town atmosphere. The name "Ballplay" itself carries historical significance — it is believed to reference the Cherokee ball game (a predecessor to lacrosse) that was once played in the area, reflecting the deep indigenous heritage of the region surrounding the Little Tennessee River valley. ## Directions 1. From **Tellico Plains**, head northeast on **TN Route 360** (Ballplay Road). 2. Continue along TN 360 for several miles through the rolling countryside. 3. The spring is located at the **T-intersection of TN 360 and Ballplay School Road**, near the community of Ballplay (also close to the Varnel area). 4. Look for the **flagpole with the American flag** across the street — the spring and its catwalk are right at the intersection. 5. **GPS Coordinates:** 35.4639679, -84.2054707 ## What to Expect Ballplay Artesian Spring is an easy, roadside stop — no hiking required. The spring is right at the intersection, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and mobility levels. The Rotary-built catwalk provides a pleasant place to sit, fill water containers, and take in the peaceful rural surroundings. The water flows year-round, as is typical of artesian springs, and visitors have noted that it stays refreshingly cool even during the warm Tennessee summers. Many locals regularly stop here to fill jugs, and the spring has a loyal following among those who prefer natural spring water. The surrounding area of Monroe County offers plenty to explore, including the nearby Cherokee National Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, and the town of Tellico Plains itself, which serves as a gateway to some of East Tennessee's finest mountain scenery. Ballplay Artesian Spring makes an ideal refreshment stop before or after a day of exploring the region.