Stone Cave Spring, Dunlap, TN

## Overview Stone Cave Spring is a natural spring located along Stone Cave Road in Dunlap, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Sequatchie County. Situated in the scenic Sequatchie Valley — one of the longest and straightest valleys in the world, carved by millions of years of water flowing through limestone bedrock — this spring is a product of the region's rich karst geology. Water percolates through layers of ancient limestone, emerging at the surface as a cool, naturally filtered spring. The spring flows freely at ground level and has long been used by locals as a source of drinking water. Visitors have reported that the water tastes exceptionally clean and fresh. According to the original submitter, the water has been tested and found to be of good drinking quality, though conditions can change over time and independent testing is always recommended before consumption. The spring is open to the public 24/7, and there is no fee or limit on how much water you can collect. Despite being well-known among locals and appearing on Google Maps, Stone Cave Spring remains a relatively quiet and lightly visited spot — a hidden gem for those who seek out natural spring water sources in East Tennessee. ## Directions The spring is located near **1174 Stone Cave Road, Dunlap, TN 37327**. Updated GPS coordinates reported by a visitor are approximately **35.3107, -85.4286**. **Coming from Dunlap:** 1. Head south on **US Highway 28 (TN-28 S)**. 2. Pass **Anthony and Theresa's Homecookin' restaurant** on your left. 3. Continue a short distance and pass a **church**, also on your left. 4. At the next intersection, turn **left** onto **Stone Cave Road**. Look for **Stone Mulch & More**, a landscaping supply business, as a landmark at the turn. 5. Drive a short distance down Stone Cave Road until you enter a wooded area. 6. Watch for a **path or pull-off on your left** where you can park your vehicle. 7. From the parking area, walk to the **right** into the woods. After a short walk of just a few dozen yards, you should see signs or markers indicating the spring's location. *Note: The walk from the road to the spring is very short — you'll barely need to venture into the woods before reaching the water source.* ## What to Expect Stone Cave Spring is a simple, natural ground-level spring — don't expect a developed park or elaborate infrastructure. The water flows naturally from the earth, and the surrounding area is wooded and peaceful. The spring is located conveniently close to the road, requiring only a brief walk through the trees. A bakery is located nearby along the route, making it easy to combine a spring water run with a stop for fresh baked goods. The area around Dunlap offers additional attractions, including access to the Cumberland Plateau and numerous hiking trails in the Sequatchie Valley. Because the site sees relatively few visitors, you're likely to have the spring to yourself. Bring your own containers for collecting water, and consider bringing sturdy footwear as the short path through the woods may be uneven. There are no restroom facilities or other amenities at the spring itself. Visitors are encouraged to leave the area as they found it and to respect the natural surroundings so this community spring remains accessible for years to come.