Malabar Inn Spring

## Overview Malabar Inn Spring is a continuously flowing public spring located right next to the Malabar Inn Restaurant in the small village of Lucas, Ohio, in Richland County. Water emerges naturally from sandstone bedrock approximately 20 feet above a cement-covered trough, where it is channeled through a 4-inch pipe that flows around the clock, 365 days a year. The spring's proximity to the historic Malabar Inn — a well-known local dining establishment — makes it an easy and convenient stop for visitors exploring the area. Lucas sits at the edge of the glaciated Allegheny Plateau, a region rich in sandstone formations that naturally filter groundwater and give rise to numerous springs. The sandstone geology here is part of what gives the water its notably clean taste, as visitors have consistently reported that the water is refreshing and delicious. However, a posted sign at the spring indicates that the water is **not certified as potable**, and it is unclear whether the water has been formally tested for contaminants. Visitors should be aware of this advisory before choosing to drink from the spring. The village of Lucas is also home to Malabar Farm State Park, the former estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield, making the area a popular destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and spring water enthusiasts alike. ## Directions 1. From Mansfield, Ohio, head south on **OH-603 S** toward Lucas (approximately 12 miles). 2. Continue into the village of Lucas on **Pleasant Valley Road / OH-603**. 3. Look for the **Malabar Inn Restaurant** at **4025 Township Highway 438** on your right. 4. The spring is located immediately adjacent to the restaurant building. The cement trough and flowing pipe are visible from the road. *GPS Coordinates: 40.6523, -82.4013* ## What to Expect The spring is easy to access and sits right alongside the Malabar Inn Restaurant, so there is no hiking or trail navigation required. You'll find a cement-covered trough fed by a 4-inch pipe that delivers a steady, continuous flow of water directly from the sandstone source above. The setup is simple and utilitarian — this is a working spring, not a manicured park feature. The flow is reliable year-round, making this a dependable stop regardless of the season. Many visitors bring jugs or bottles to fill up. The water has been widely praised for its taste, though the posted signage advises that it has not been certified as potable drinking water. If you're making a trip to the area, consider combining your visit with a stop at nearby **Malabar Farm State Park**, which offers scenic trails, historic tours of Louis Bromfield's "Big House," and beautiful rolling countryside — all just minutes away. The Malabar Inn Restaurant itself is a popular spot for a meal before or after exploring the park.