About This Spring
## Overview Hapgood Spring is a public drinking spring located along South Athol Road in the town of Athol, Massachusetts, within Worcester County. The spring features a continuous flow of water and has been accessible to the public as a community water source. Situated in the rural landscape of north-central Massachusetts, Hapgood Spring is one of the region's traditional roadside springs that locals and visitors have long relied upon for fresh water. Athol, sometimes called "the heart of the Commonwealth" for its central location in the state, sits along the Millers River valley — an area shaped by glacial activity that left behind the aquifers and underground water sources that feed springs like this one. The name "Hapgood" likely reflects a local family or landowner historically associated with the site, as was common with named springs throughout New England. ## Directions 1. The spring is located at approximately **4 South Athol Road (Route 32)** in Athol, MA 01331. 2. If coming from the center of Athol, head south on **South Athol Road (Route 32)**. 3. Watch for the spring on the roadside near the beginning of South Athol Road, close to the GPS coordinates **42.590064, -72.232522**. 4. The spring is roadside and publicly accessible — look for the water flow near the road. ## What to Expect Hapgood Spring offers a continuous flow of water, making it a reliable stop year-round. The spring is roadside and easily accessible from South Athol Road without the need for a hike or trail navigation. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions and should be considered untested unless current testing data is available. The surrounding area is characteristic of rural New England — wooded hillsides, quiet roads, and a peaceful atmosphere. The spring is a convenient stop for those traveling through the region or exploring the nearby trails and natural areas of north-central Massachusetts, including the Quabbin Reservoir area to the south and the Millers River corridor. Parking is typically informal along the roadside near the spring.
Getting There
Address
4, S Athol Rd, Athol, MA 01331, US
GPS Coordinates
42.590064, -72.232522
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. The spring is located at approximately **4 South Athol Road (Route 32)** in Athol, MA 01331. 2. If coming from the center of Athol, head south on **South Athol Road (Route 32)**. 3. Watch for the spring on the roadside near the beginning of South Athol Road, close to the
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.