
About This Spring
## Overview This developed roadside spring sits along Wardensville Pike (Route 55/259) near the small community of Star Tannery in Frederick County, Virginia. Nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the spring has long been a popular stop for locals and travelers who pull over to fill jugs and bottles with its naturally flowing water. The surrounding area is rich in limestone geology — a hallmark of Virginia's Great Valley region — which naturally filters groundwater and often contributes a clean, mineral taste that many spring-water enthusiasts prize. Visitors have reported that the water tastes fresh and clean, and the spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by the community. Star Tannery itself is a quiet, unincorporated community with deep roots in the region's early American history. The village takes its name from a tannery that once operated in the area, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with farms, forests, and winding mountain roads. The spring adds to the area's rural charm and serves as a small but valued local resource. ## Directions 1. From Winchester, VA, head west on **Route 55 (Northwestern Turnpike/Wardensville Pike)** toward Wardensville, WV. 2. Continue approximately 18 miles through the countryside. You will pass through the community of Star Tannery. 3. Look for the spring on the roadside near **1751 Wardensville Pike, Star Tannery, VA 22654**. 4. The spring is developed and visible from the road — watch for vehicles pulled over on the shoulder, which is a common sign of its location. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 39.099243, -78.47399 *Parking is informal along the road shoulder. Use caution when pulling over, especially during busy travel times.* ## What to Expect The spring has been developed for easy roadside access, making it a convenient stop for anyone traveling along Wardensville Pike. Water flows from a pipe or spout, allowing visitors to fill containers directly. It is common to see locals stopping with multiple jugs to bring water home. The setting is rural and peaceful, with views of the surrounding Appalachian foothills and farmland. The area is accessible year-round, though water flow may vary seasonally — springs in this limestone-rich region of Virginia tend to maintain relatively consistent flow, but winter freezing conditions could occasionally affect access. There are no formal facilities at the spring — no restrooms, picnic areas, or signage beyond what may be posted locally. The stop is quick and straightforward: pull over, fill up, and enjoy the drive through one of Virginia's most scenic corridors.
Getting There
Address
1751, Wardensville Pike, Star Tannery, VA 22654, US
GPS Coordinates
39.099243, -78.473990
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From Winchester, VA, head west on **Route 55 (Northwestern Turnpike/Wardensville Pike)** toward Wardensville, WV. 2. Continue approximately 18 miles through the countryside. You will pass through the community of Star Tannery. 3. Look for the spring on the roadside near **1751 Wardensville Pike, Star Tannery, VA 22654**. 4. The spring is developed and visible from the road — watch for vehicles pulled over on the shoulder, which is a common sign of its location. 5. **
Water Safety Disclaimer
Try Water does not independently test, verify, or guarantee the quality, safety, or potability of any water source listed on this site. Listings are based on publicly available data, community contributions, and historical reports — not laboratory analysis.
Water conditions at natural springs can change at any time due to weather, contamination, agricultural runoff, seasonal variation, or other environmental factors. A spring that was safe to drink from yesterday may not be safe today.
Always test water yourself before drinking. We strongly recommend using a portable water testing kit or filter (such as a LifeStraw) and consulting local health authorities when in doubt. Never rely solely on the information provided here when making decisions about drinking from a natural water source.
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Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Water flows from a pipe or spout.
Parking available nearby.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.