Stephen's Falls Spring, Dodgeville, WI

## Overview Stephen's Falls Spring is a historic springhouse tucked within the scenic grounds of Governor Dodge State Park near Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Nestled in Iowa County's rolling Driftless Area landscape, this spring has been used for generations by local farmers and continues to flow year-round, feeding the picturesque Stephens Falls just downstream from the springhouse. The falls and surrounding woodland make this one of the most popular and accessible natural features in the park. Governor Dodge State Park actually houses three springhouses, but Stephens Falls Spring is widely regarded as the most accessible, cleanest, and most actively flowing of the three. The spring emerges inside a small stone springhouse before spilling out to cascade over the rocky ledge that forms Stephens Falls — a beautiful sight especially after rainfall. It's worth noting that the park's official brochure includes a warning: *"Despite it looking tempting, we recommend you refrain from sampling the water."* While the spring has historically been used as a water source by area farmers, visitors should be aware of this advisory. ## Directions 1. Head to **Governor Dodge State Park**, located at **4175 State Highway 23 North**, Dodgeville, WI. A Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker or daily pass is required for entry. 2. Once you've entered the park, continue **north** along the main park road. 3. Watch for the signed turnoff for **Stephens Falls**. The trailhead is a short distance from the road. 4. Follow the well-marked trail to the falls. The springhouse is located in the back corner of the falls area, just upstream from where the water cascades over the ledge. The park is open from **6 AM to 11 PM** daily. **GPS Coordinates:** 43.028198, -90.13015 (approximately N43° 01.692′, W090° 07.809′) ## What to Expect The trail to Stephens Falls is short and sees heavy foot traffic, making it one of the easier natural attractions to reach in Governor Dodge State Park. The springhouse itself sits in a quiet back corner near the head of the falls. Water flows steadily from the spring, emerging from the springhouse and tumbling over rock to form the falls below. If you're hoping to collect water, be aware that the springhouse setup is not designed for easy filling — large bottles will require some creativity to position under the flow. Smaller containers are much easier to manage. The surrounding forest is lush and especially beautiful in spring and fall. The trail can be muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Because this is a popular stop within the park, expect company on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning offers the best chance for a quieter experience. Governor Dodge State Park spans over 5,000 acres and offers hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping, so a visit to Stephens Falls Spring pairs well with a full day of exploring the park's Driftless Area terrain — characterized by steep, wooded coulees and exposed sandstone bluffs that were never flattened by glaciers.