Organ Springs, Salem, Indiana

## Overview Organ Springs is a small, unincorporated community located about 11 miles south of Salem in Washington County, Indiana. Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, the area is home to a natural spring that flows freely through a natural water channel before spilling onto the ground. The spring sits in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by the wooded landscape characteristic of this part of the state. It's important to note that this spring is on private property — a community member has taken ownership of the land where the spring is located. Access is not guaranteed, and visitors should seek permission from the landowner before attempting to collect water. The water has not been tested for contaminants, and its safety for drinking has not been verified. Visitors should treat it accordingly. The corrected GPS coordinates for the spring are approximately **38.47734, -86.16436** (the listed address of 8550 S Organ Springs Rd is approximate, as no official address exists for this unincorporated area). ## Directions Coming from Salem, Indiana: 1. Head south on **S Main Street**. 2. Turn right onto **W Becks Mill Road** and continue west. 3. At the intersection with **S Orchard Road**, turn left and head south. 4. Continue south, passing **Beck's Mill** on your right — a historic grist mill and local landmark worth a quick stop. 5. Shortly after, you'll pass **Nice Park** on your right. 6. Cross the **W Grandview Road** intersection and keep going. 7. Watch for a tight right-hand turn in the road — this curve leads directly into the Organ Springs community, just a short distance ahead. 8. Once in the community, ask a local resident for the exact spring location and for permission to access or harvest water. The total drive from Salem is roughly 11 miles and takes about 20 minutes. The roads are rural and winding, so drive carefully — especially at night. ## What to Expect Organ Springs is a very small, quiet community with only a handful of residents. The spring itself is modest — water flows through a natural channel and disperses onto the ground rather than collecting in a pool or basin. There is no formal infrastructure such as a spigot, pipe, or collection point. Because the spring is on private property, your experience will depend entirely on the landowner's willingness to grant access. Approach respectfully and be prepared for the possibility that you may not be able to collect water during your visit. A few things to keep in mind: - **The community is very small and remote.** There are no nearby stores, gas stations, or public facilities. Come prepared with everything you need. - **Traveling alone at night is not recommended.** The roads are unlit and winding, and the area is isolated. - **Water quality is unknown.** The spring water has not been tested, so its safety for consumption has not been established. - **Cell service may be limited** in this rural part of Washington County. If you're making the trip, consider combining it with a visit to nearby **Beck's Mill**, a beautifully preserved water-powered grist mill just a few miles north along the same route. It adds historical context to the area and is a worthwhile stop.