About This Spring
## Overview Fowler Spring is one of the most well-known natural springs in the Nevada City area of Nevada County, California. Located along Banner Quaker Hill Road, this spring has long been a local landmark in the historic Gold Country foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Nevada City itself dates back to the Gold Rush era of the 1850s, and natural springs like Fowler Spring have served the surrounding community for generations. The spring is situated on what appears to be unowned or unclaimed land, and locals have traditionally accessed it freely. However, it has been reported that water testing has detected trace amounts of potentially harmful elements in the spring water. Because of this, the water is generally not recommended for drinking. Anyone who chooses to consume the water does so at their own risk. The GPS coordinates for Fowler Spring are approximately 39.284006, -120.885781. ## Directions 1. From the area near Robson Custom Homes in Nevada City, head toward Wewah Way. 2. Follow Wewah Way until you reach Banner Quaker Hill Road. 3. Turn right onto Banner Quaker Hill Road. 4. Continue along Banner Quaker Hill Road — the spring is located near the address 17399 Banner Quaker Hill Road, Nevada City, CA 95959. 5. Keep an eye out for the spring on the roadside as you travel along this stretch. ## What to Expect Fowler Spring is a roadside natural spring accessible directly from Banner Quaker Hill Road, making it relatively easy to reach by car. The surrounding landscape is characteristic of the Sierra Nevada foothills — rolling terrain with mixed conifer and oak woodland, especially scenic in spring and autumn. There are no posted hours or access restrictions, and visitors have historically been free to stop by at any time. The spring flows naturally, though flow rates may vary seasonally — expect stronger output during the wet season (late fall through spring) and potentially reduced flow during the dry summer months. It is worth bringing your own water container if you plan to collect water for non-drinking purposes such as gardening or other uses. As noted above, water quality concerns have been reported, so the spring water is generally not considered safe for consumption without proper testing or treatment. The area around Nevada City offers plenty of additional attractions for visitors, including historic downtown Nevada City, the South Yuba River State Park, and numerous hiking trails throughout the Gold Country region.
Getting There
Address
17399, Banner Quaker Hill Rd, Nevada City, CA 95959, US
GPS Coordinates
39.282760, -120.888544
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From the area near Robson Custom Homes in Nevada City, head toward Wewah Way. 2. Follow Wewah Way until you reach Banner Quaker Hill Road. 3. Turn right onto Banner Quaker Hill Road. 4. Continue along Banner Quaker Hill Road — the spring is located near the address 17399 Banner Quaker Hill Road, Nevada City, CA 95959. 5. Keep an eye out for the spring on the roadside as you travel along this stretch.
Water Safety Disclaimer
Try Water does not independently test, verify, or guarantee the quality, safety, or potability of any water source listed on this site. Listings are based on publicly available data, community contributions, and historical reports — not laboratory analysis.
Water conditions at natural springs can change at any time due to weather, contamination, agricultural runoff, seasonal variation, or other environmental factors. A spring that was safe to drink from yesterday may not be safe today.
Always test water yourself before drinking. We strongly recommend using a portable water testing kit or filter (such as a LifeStraw) and consulting local health authorities when in doubt. Never rely solely on the information provided here when making decisions about drinking from a natural water source.
By using this site, you acknowledge that you assume all risk associated with visiting and consuming water from any listed source.
Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Parking available nearby.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.