Clare Spring, Clare, Michigan

## Overview Clare Spring is a long-flowing public drinking spring located along the roadside near the small city of Clare in Clare County, Michigan. According to longtime local residents, this spring has flowed continuously for over 70 years and has been available for public use since its earliest days. Situated on the public road shoulder, the spring is easily accessible to passersby and has served as a beloved community water source for generations. The spring's source may originate from private property nearby, but the well itself sits on the public roadside and has historically been treated as a communal resource. Visitors over the decades have reported that the water is clean and refreshing, though — as with any natural spring — water quality can vary and has not been independently verified. The Clare County Road Commission and neighboring property owners may have additional historical details about the spring's origins and maintenance. ## Directions The spring is located on Beaverton Road (also known as Clare Beaverton Road), near its intersection with Old U.S. 27 (South Clare Avenue), just outside Clare, Michigan. The listed address is 898 Hatchery Road, Farwell, MI 48622. 1. From **Clare**, head north on **South Clare Avenue / Old U.S. 27**. (You can also take the exit off **US-127** and follow signs toward Old 27.) 2. Continue north for approximately **2 miles**. 3. At the intersection with **Beaverton Road (Clare Beaverton Road)**, turn **left (east)**. 4. The spring well is **immediately on the right** side of the road. 5. Look for a small **pullover space** near the well — it is visible from the road. **GPS Coordinates:** 43.873123, -84.86322 ## What to Expect Clare Spring is a simple, roadside well — don't expect a grand natural feature, but rather a practical and charming community water source that has quietly served locals for decades. The well is visible from the road, and there is a small pullover area where you can park briefly to fill containers. The spring is accessible **24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round**. There are no gates, fees, or posted hours. Because it sits along a public road, visits are typically quick stops rather than extended outings. A few things to keep in mind: - **Water quality:** The water has been used by locals for drinking for many years, but there is no posted water quality testing data. As with any unmonitored natural spring, visitors should use their own discretion. - **Parking:** The pullover space is small and best suited for one or two vehicles at a time. Be mindful of road traffic when stopping. - **Winter access:** The spring has been reported to flow year-round, but icy road conditions in Michigan winters may make the pullover area slippery — use caution. - **Respect the area:** The surrounding land includes private property. Please stay near the well and the roadside pullover, and leave the area as you found it.