Public Drinking Spring

Town of Crescent, River Rd. Spring, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501

3278, S River Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501, US

2 photos

About This Spring

## Overview The River Road Spring is a roadside natural spring located in the Town of Crescent, just south of Rhinelander in Oneida County, Wisconsin. The spring flows from a pipe near the Wisconsin River, offering a steady stream of water year-round. Situated along a rural stretch of S River Road near its intersection with Highway 8, this spring has served as a convenient stop for locals and travelers passing through Wisconsin's Northwoods region. While the spring produces a consistent flow, visitors have noted that the immediate surroundings are not well-maintained, and there is reportedly no regular upkeep or custodian responsible for the site. As with any untreated natural water source, the water quality cannot be guaranteed, and conditions may vary seasonally. ## Directions 1. From **Rhinelander, WI**, head south on **S River Road** (also accessible from Highway 8). 2. Travel to the area near **3278 S River Road**, close to the crossroad of **S River Road and Highway 8**. 3. Look for a **small pipe** on the side of the road where water flows out — the spring is at GPS coordinates **45.623368, -89.448257**. 4. The spring is roadside, so pull well off the road and park safely. There is no dedicated parking area. **Safety note:** The spring is located alongside the highway. Exercise caution when crossing or walking near the road, especially during periods of heavier traffic. ## What to Expect This is a simple, no-frills roadside spring — a pipe emerging near the road with a steady flow of water. There are no benches, signage, or developed facilities at the site. The area around the pipe has been described by visitors as unkempt, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for muddy or uneven ground, particularly after rain. The spring sits in the scenic Northwoods landscape near the Wisconsin River, so the surrounding area is wooded and pleasant despite the spring site itself lacking upkeep. Because the spring is unmaintained and exposed to roadside runoff, the water has not been tested or certified for drinking. Visitors who choose to collect water do so at their own discretion. The spring flows year-round, though winter visitors should be aware that icy conditions may make the roadside stop more challenging. The location is easy to access by car and requires no hiking — simply pull over and look for the pipe.

Getting There

Address

3278, S River Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501, US

GPS Coordinates

45.623368, -89.448257

Directions

Community Submitted

Directions 1. From **Rhinelander, WI**, head south on **S River Road** (also accessible from Highway 8). 2. Travel to the area near **3278 S River Road**, close to the crossroad of **S River Road and Highway 8**. 3. Look for a **small pipe** on the side of the road where water flows out — the spring is at

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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

TypePublic Drinking Spring
AccessPublic

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Tips

🫗

Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.

🚗

Accessible by road — pull off carefully.

🚰

Water flows from a pipe or spout.

🅿️

Parking available nearby.

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.