Scappoose-Vernonia Hwy Spring, Scappoose, OR 97056

## Overview The Scappoose-Vernonia Highway Spring is a beloved public drinking spring located along the scenic Scappoose-Vernonia Highway (Highway 30) in Columbia County, Oregon. Nestled in the foothills of the Northern Oregon Coast Range, this roadside spring has been a trusted water source for the surrounding community for decades. Long-time residents have reported that the water is exceptionally clean and refreshing — one family who lived nearby for over 40 years considers it "the best water anywhere in the world." The spring flows year-round, making it a reliable stop for locals and travelers passing through this rural stretch of northwestern Oregon. The area surrounding the spring sits within the volcanic and sedimentary geology of the Coast Range, where rainfall percolates through layers of basalt and marine sedimentary rock before emerging as cool, filtered spring water. Columbia County is known for its abundant groundwater resources, and this spring is one of several natural water sources that dot the region's back roads. ## Directions 1. From the town of Scappoose, head west on the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway (also known as Scappoose-Vernonia Road). 2. Continue west for approximately 6–7 miles into the more rural, wooded section of the highway. 3. Watch for the spring on the **left-hand side** of the road as you travel westbound. 4. The spring is located near the address 30290 Scappoose-Vernonia Highway. Use GPS coordinates **45.818003, -122.945207** for precise navigation. 5. There is typically enough shoulder space to pull off the road safely near the spring. ## What to Expect This is a simple, no-frills roadside spring — the kind of hidden gem that locals rely on quietly. The water flows year-round and has historically been used as a drinking water source by the entire surrounding neighborhood. Visitors have consistently reported that the water tastes exceptionally clean and fresh. The spring is situated along a rural stretch of the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway, surrounded by the lush, forested landscape typical of the Northern Oregon Coast Range. The drive out to the spring is scenic in its own right, winding through dense stands of Douglas fir and alder. Expect a peaceful, uncrowded stop — this is primarily a local resource rather than a tourist destination. Since the spring is roadside, access is straightforward and does not require any hiking. Pull off carefully onto the shoulder and bring your own containers to fill. The spring is accessible in all seasons, though the road can be slick during Oregon's rainy months (roughly October through April), so drive with caution.