Hawk Hills Spring, South Bloomingville, OH

## Overview Hawk Hills Spring is a public drinking spring located near South Bloomingville in Hocking County, Ohio — right in the heart of the scenic Hocking Hills region. Situated along State Route 56, the spring sits just a short distance from the famous Ash Cave, one of Ohio's most visited natural landmarks. The surrounding area is known for its dramatic sandstone formations, lush hemlock forests, and abundant waterfalls carved over millennia by the erosive forces of water on Black Hand sandstone. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travelers passing through the area. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and refreshing, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. The spring appears to be accessible at all hours, with no posted signage indicating limited availability. Whether you're on a day trip through Hocking Hills or making a dedicated stop to fill up bottles, Hawk Hills Spring is a convenient and scenic roadside spring worth visiting. ## Directions **From Columbus, Ohio** (approximately 55 miles, ~73 minutes): 1. Head south on US-23 South. 2. Take OH-22 East / OH-56 East toward Circleville. 3. Continue on OH-56 East for approximately 25 miles past Circleville. 4. About 7 miles beyond the town of Laurelville, you'll reach the intersection of OH-56 East and OH-664 North. 5. At approximately 2 miles past this intersection, turn right to continue on OH-56 East. 6. The spring is located along State Route 56 near the address 23526 State Rte 56, South Bloomingville, OH 43152. 7. Ash Cave is located beyond the spring — if you've reached Ash Cave, you've gone a bit too far. The spring can be easy to miss, so keep an eye out as you drive. **GPS Coordinates:** 39.417709, -82.59977 ## What to Expect Hawk Hills Spring is a roadside spring along State Route 56, making it relatively easy to access by car. The spring is located in one of Ohio's most beautiful regions — the Hocking Hills — surrounded by rolling forested hills and sandstone geology. The area's Black Hand sandstone, deposited roughly 350 million years ago during the Mississippian period, is the same formation responsible for the region's famous caves, rock shelters, and waterfalls. The spring does not appear to have restricted hours and seems to be available around the clock. Because it sits along a state route, parking is informal — pull off carefully to the side of the road. If you're visiting the spring, consider combining your trip with stops at nearby Hocking Hills attractions. Ash Cave, one of the largest recess caves in Ohio, is just a short drive farther east on Route 56. Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Conkle's Hollow are also within a short driving distance, making this an ideal area for a full day of exploration. The spring can be easy to overlook from the road, so slow down as you approach the GPS coordinates and look carefully for it along the roadside.