Mechanicsburg Gap Spring, Romney, West Virginia 26757

## Overview Mechanicsburg Gap Spring is a public drinking spring located about 2 miles west of Romney, West Virginia, in Hampshire County. The spring emerges from the ground through a plastic pipe, offering a steady, accessible flow that has been estimated at roughly 5 gallons per hour or more. Romney, the county seat of Hampshire County, is one of the oldest towns in West Virginia and sits within the Appalachian Ridge and Valley region — an area well known for its abundant limestone geology and natural spring activity. Springs like this one have historically served as important water sources for local communities and travelers passing through the region. While no formal water quality testing data is available for this spring, it has been used as a public drinking water source by locals and visitors. As with any natural spring, water conditions can change over time and with weather events. ## Directions 1. From downtown Romney, head west on **US Route 50** (Northwestern Turnpike). 2. Travel approximately **2 miles** west of town. 3. Turn onto **Old Mechanicsburg Gap Road** (the spring is near the address 768 Old Mechanicsburg Gap Rd). 4. Watch for a plastic pipe emerging from the ground on the roadside — this is the spring outlet. **GPS Coordinates:** 39.333453, -78.80641 ## What to Expect Mechanicsburg Gap Spring is a simple, roadside spring — don't expect a dramatic waterfall or elaborate setup. The water flows from a plastic pipe that protrudes from the ground, making it easy to fill jugs or bottles. The flow rate has been reported at approximately 5 gallons per hour or more, so bringing smaller containers and allowing a bit of time to fill up is a good idea. The surrounding area is rural Hampshire County countryside, with rolling hills and wooded ridgelines typical of the eastern West Virginia landscape. Old Mechanicsburg Gap Road is a quieter back road, so parking near the spring is generally straightforward — just pull off to the side safely. The spring is accessible year-round, though flow rates may vary seasonally, with stronger output typically following periods of rain or snowmelt.