
About This Spring
## Overview The Flowing Well is a beloved public artesian well located just east of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, along scenic Bark River Road. Known for its distinctive iron-rich flavor, this continuously flowing well has drawn visitors from across southeastern Wisconsin — with fans traveling from as far away as Milwaukee to fill jugs and bottles with its mineral-laden water. The well flows year-round, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it a reliable stop for spring water enthusiasts in any season. The iron content in the water gives it a characteristic mineral taste that many locals and visitors have come to love. Historically, artesian wells like this one tap into pressurized underground aquifers, and the natural pressure pushes water to the surface without the need for a pump — hence the name "Flowing Well." The well sits in Jefferson County, an area underlain by glacial deposits and dolomite bedrock that naturally filter and mineralize groundwater as it moves through the subsurface. ## Directions 1. From Fort Atkinson, head east on **Bark River Road**. 2. Continue on Bark River Road until you reach the area near its intersection with **Rustic Road**. 3. The well is located along Bark River Road between **Rock River Road** and **Kutz Road**, on the outskirts of town. 4. Look for the flowing well on the roadside — it is accessible directly from the road. 5. **GPS Coordinates:** 42.923599, -88.807182 (N 42° 55.416′, W 088° 48.431′) The address **W5469 Bark River Road, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538** can be used for navigation apps, though the well is a roadside feature rather than a traditional street address. ## What to Expect The Flowing Well is a simple, roadside artesian well that runs continuously. Visitors typically pull over along Bark River Road to collect water in containers. The water has a noticeable iron flavor — a characteristic that has earned it a loyal following among those who prefer naturally mineralized spring water. Some visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and refreshing despite the mineral notes, while others specifically seek it out for the iron content. The surrounding area along Bark River Road is rural and scenic, with the Bark River winding through the Jefferson County countryside nearby. The well is accessible at all hours, making it convenient for both planned trips and spontaneous stops. There is no formal parking lot, so visitors typically park along the road shoulder. Bring your own containers if you plan to collect water — gallon jugs or large water bottles work well. The well is a popular local landmark, so don't be surprised if you encounter other water collectors during your visit, especially on weekends.
Getting There
Address
W5469, Bark River Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, US
GPS Coordinates
42.923599, -88.807182
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From Fort Atkinson, head east on **Bark River Road**. 2. Continue on Bark River Road until you reach the area near its intersection with **Rustic Road**. 3. The well is located along Bark River Road between **Rock River Road** and **Kutz Road**, on the outskirts of town. 4. Look for the flowing well on the roadside — it is accessible directly from the road. 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.
By using this site, you acknowledge that you assume all risk associated with visiting and consuming water from any listed source.
Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Parking available nearby.
Open 24/7 — visit anytime.
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.