Bateman Branch Spring – Erin, Tennessee

## Overview Bateman Branch Spring is a public drinking spring located near Erin, Tennessee, in Houston County. Situated in the rural hills of Middle Tennessee, this spring emerges in an area shaped by the region's characteristic limestone and dolomite geology — formations that have been filtering and channeling groundwater through the Highland Rim plateau for millennia. The name "Bateman Branch" likely refers to the local waterway fed by the spring, a common naming convention in this part of Tennessee where springs historically served as vital water sources for early settlers and rural communities alike. Houston County and the surrounding area are home to numerous natural springs, a testament to the karst topography that defines much of Middle Tennessee. Springs like Bateman Branch have historically been used by residents as sources of drinking water, and many continue to be valued by locals and visitors who seek out naturally sourced water. ## Directions Bateman Branch Spring is located near Erin, Tennessee. The GPS coordinates for the spring are approximately **36.2795, -87.6404**. To reach the area: 1. From Erin, head generally northwest using the GPS coordinates as your guide. 2. The spring is situated in a rural area, so a GPS-enabled device or smartphone with offline maps is recommended. 3. Look for the branch (small stream) and signs of spring flow near the coordinates. *Note: Road conditions in rural Houston County can vary. A vehicle with decent clearance may be helpful depending on the season.* ## What to Expect Bateman Branch Spring is set in the quiet, wooded countryside typical of Houston County. Visitors can expect a natural spring environment surrounded by the rolling, forested hills of Middle Tennessee. The spring has historically been used as a public drinking water source, though water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. The area around Erin is rural and peaceful, making a visit to the spring a pleasant outing for those exploring the natural water sources of the Highland Rim. As with many natural springs in the region, flow may be stronger during wetter months in late winter and spring, and may diminish during dry summer periods. Visitors should be aware that the spring is in a rural setting with limited amenities nearby. Erin, the Houston County seat, offers basic services including gas stations and small restaurants for those making a day trip.