
About This Spring
## Overview This small, privately maintained drinking spring is located along Shover Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, within Cumberland County. The spring pool measures roughly three feet across and originates from a marshy, swamp-fed source — a common geological feature in the Great Valley region of south-central Pennsylvania, where limestone and carbonate bedrock allow groundwater to surface through natural fractures and low-lying wetland areas. Cumberland County sits within the Cumberland Valley, an area long known for its abundant groundwater resources. Springs throughout this region have historically served as vital water sources for early settlers, farms, and small communities. While no specific historical records have been found for this particular spring, its location in a residential area along Shover Drive suggests it has likely been used by local residents for some time. As a private drinking spring, visitors should be aware that access may require permission from the property owner. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals, though water quality can vary seasonally — particularly in swamp-fed springs, which may be more susceptible to surface water influence during heavy rains. ## Directions 1. From downtown Carlisle, head south on South Hanover Street (US-11 South). 2. Turn onto Shover Drive — the spring is located near the address marker 9 Shover Drive, Carlisle, PA 17013. 3. GPS coordinates: **40.242212, -77.162645** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring may not appear on standard mapping apps. 4. Look for a small spring pool, approximately three feet across, in a low-lying, swampy area near the road. ## What to Expect This is a modest, natural spring rather than a developed or piped source. The spring pool is roughly three feet in diameter and sits in a swampy area, so the ground around it may be soft and wet — waterproof footwear is recommended, especially during wetter months. The surrounding landscape is typical of Cumberland Valley lowlands: lush, green, and often damp. Because the spring originates from a swamp, water flow and clarity may fluctuate with the seasons. During dry summer months, the spring may slow; after heavy rains or spring snowmelt, the surrounding area can become quite saturated. As this is a private spring, please be respectful of the property and any posted signage regarding access.
Getting There
Address
9, Shover Dr, Carlisle, PA 17013, US
GPS Coordinates
40.242212, -77.162645
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From downtown Carlisle, head south on South Hanover Street (US-11 South). 2. Turn onto Shover Drive — the spring is located near the address marker 9 Shover Drive, Carlisle, PA 17013. 3.
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.
Water flows from a pipe or spout.
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.