Luka Springs, Luka, MS, 38852

## Overview Iuka Springs Park in Iuka, Mississippi, is home to a remarkable cluster of six artesian springs that rise naturally to the surface. These mineral-rich springs have long been a point of pride for the small town of Iuka, located in Tishomingo County in the northeastern corner of the state. Historically, the springs and their reputed mineral properties helped put Iuka on the map — the town developed in the mid-19th century in part because of the springs, which attracted visitors seeking the purported health benefits of the mineral water. During the Civil War era, the area saw significant activity, including the Battle of Iuka in September 1862, and the springs were well known to soldiers and settlers alike. Today, only three of the six springs are currently flowing, but they remain accessible within the public park and continue to draw visitors curious about the area's natural artesian water. Each spring historically had a distinct mineral composition, contributing to the local tradition of "taking the waters." The water has been historically used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors, though conditions can change over time. The park setting makes Iuka Springs an easy and pleasant stop — there's no difficult hike or rugged terrain to navigate. It's a great destination for anyone exploring the natural heritage of northeastern Mississippi or traveling along the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor, which passes nearby. ## Directions 1. The springs are located at **Iuka Springs Park** near **401 East Quitman Street, Iuka, MS 38852**. 2. From the center of Iuka, head east on **East Quitman Street**. The park and springs are situated within the town itself, making them easy to reach. 3. GPS coordinates: **34.808651, -88.18797** — use these for precise navigation, as the park can be easy to pass if you're unfamiliar with the area. 4. The park is publicly accessible and does not require an entrance fee. ## What to Expect Iuka Springs Park is a small, publicly accessible green space within the town of Iuka. Of the original six artesian springs, three are currently active and flowing. The springs emerge naturally from the ground, fed by underground aquifers — a hallmark of the region's geology in the Tishomingo County area, which sits along the edge of the Tennessee River Hills physiographic region where porous limestone formations allow groundwater to reach the surface under natural pressure. Visitors can walk up to the flowing springs and observe (or collect) the water. The mineral content of each spring has historically varied, and the water has been reported to have a clean, pleasant taste — though, as with any natural water source, conditions may change and testing is always advisable before consumption. The park is flat and easy to walk through, suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels. There are no strenuous trails or difficult access points. The setting is quiet and shaded, offering a peaceful stop. Iuka itself is a charming small town with a historic downtown square, so the springs make a nice complement to a broader visit to the area. Seasonally, the springs flow year-round as artesian sources, though flow rates may vary. The park is open during daylight hours.