Roy's Spring

## Overview Roy's Spring is a public drinking spring nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains near the charming mountain community of Idyllwild, California. Situated at approximately 33.73°N, 116.76°W in Riverside County, this spring lies east of Strawberry Creek and north of Highway 74 (also known as the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway). The surrounding area is part of the San Jacinto Ranger District within the San Bernardino National Forest, a region renowned for its granite outcroppings, mixed conifer forests, and abundant natural water sources fed by seasonal snowmelt and underground aquifers. Idyllwild sits at roughly 5,400 feet in elevation, and the springs in this area have historically served as water sources for both the Cahuilla people — who have inhabited the San Jacinto Mountains for centuries — and later settlers drawn to the region's cool mountain climate. While specific historical records for Roy's Spring are limited, the name suggests it was likely associated with a local resident or early homesteader who relied on the spring as a personal water source. Visitors have reported that the water flows from a natural spring outlet, though flow rates may vary seasonally, with the strongest output typically occurring in late winter and spring following periods of rain and snowmelt. ## Directions 1. From the town of Idyllwild, head south on Highway 243 toward Highway 74 (Palms to Pines Highway). 2. Turn east onto Highway 74. 3. Look for the spring on the north side of Highway 74, east of where Strawberry Creek crosses or runs near the highway. 4. GPS coordinates: **33.726693, -116.760531** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring may not appear on all standard maps. *Note: These directions are based on the original listing data and GPS coordinates. The spring's exact trailhead or pulloff point may require some local knowledge. Checking with the Idyllwild Ranger Station (located on Pine Crest Avenue in Idyllwild) for current access conditions is recommended, especially during winter months when roads may be affected by snow or closures.* ## What to Expect Roy's Spring is located in a forested mountain setting typical of the western San Jacinto range — expect tall pines, incense cedars, and manzanita along with the sound of nearby Strawberry Creek. The spring is in a relatively accessible area north of Highway 74, though the immediate surroundings may involve uneven terrain and natural ground cover. As a public drinking spring, Roy's Spring has historically been used as a water source by locals and visitors. However, water quality can fluctuate with seasonal conditions, and no current testing data is publicly available for this spring. Visitors who choose to collect water should be aware that untreated natural spring water may carry contaminants. The Idyllwild area is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers, so a visit to Roy's Spring can easily be combined with exploring nearby trails in the San Jacinto Wilderness or strolling through Idyllwild's eclectic village of galleries, cafés, and shops. Summers are warm and pleasant at this elevation, while winters can bring snow — plan accordingly and check road conditions before heading out.