God’s Acre Healing Springs are located in Blackville, South Carolina – roughly two hours from Charleston and three hours from Myrtle Beach. You are unable swim in God’s Acre Healing Springs because the water is not deep. In fact, even wading in the water would be tough. The Healing Springs are accessible to those with disabilities. The cool, freshwater springs are well known and loved. At times, lines even form to reach the two spigots, tucked in a rural forest behind a church.
God’s Acre Healing Springs are located behind Healing Springs Baptist Church in Blackville on land that has the unusual distinction of being deeded to God. Their mineral waters flow from nearby artesian wells, and the springs have been a source of folklore spanning centuries. Native Americans who lived near this site believed the waters were sacred because of their healing properties. Today, people continue to tout the water’s health value and will travel long distances to collect gallons at a time.
Stories of the springs’ healing power were popularized during the American Revolution. Legend holds that four British soldiers were severely wounded in a nearby battle at Windy Hill Creek. They, along with two men ordered to bury them when they died, were rescued by Native Americans, who took them to the springs. Six months later, all of the soldiers returned to their post in Charleston, crediting the springs’ water with their miraculous recovery.
Native Americans are said to have sold the springs to a trader named Nathaniel Walker for corn. Walker was also the founder of the adjacent church, which originally was known as Edisto Church after the South Edisto River. The land passed through many hands before it was eventually purchased by Lute Boylston. In 1944, Mr. Boyston decided to deed the land to God so that everyone could enjoy the spring’s healing powers.
Centuries later, South Carolinians continue to hold the site sacred, and many people – of all races and socioeconomic classes – travel hours to collect water from its humble spigots. The springs are accessible via a paved sidewalk and ramp which takes you directly to the water source, making it completely handicap accessible.
God’s Acre Healing Springs – Historical Marker
The front of the historical marker at God’s Acre Healing Springs reads:
By tradition, Healing Springs got its name during the Revolutionary War. In 1781 after a bloody battle at nearby Windy Hill Creek, four wounded Tories sent inland from Charleston by General Banastre (The Butcher) Tarleton were left in the care of two comrades who had orders to bury them when they died. Luckily, Native Americans found them and took to their secret, sacred healing springs. Six months later the Charleston Garrison was astonished by the reappearance of the six men. All were strong and healthy.
Its reverse reads:
Ownership of the springs passed from the native “Indian” tribes who revered them to an Indian trader, Nathaniel Walker, who bought them with corn. The site passed through several hands until it was acquired by L. P. Boylston. On July 21, 1944 he deeded the land and the springs to GOD. The waters, by analysis are exceptionally pure and contain healthful minerals. People today, as in the past, believe they truly are Healing Springs.
More Pictures of God’s Acre Healing Springs
Reflections on God’s Acre Healing Springs
Contributor Teri Leigh Teed shares her experiences visiting God’s Acre Healing Springs:
Probably the only property in the country that is deeded to God, Healing Springs is a natural artesian spring that is visited daily for its cool, crystal clear, best tasting waters. Native Americans claimed that the waters had healing properties, hence the name. During the Revolutionary War, wounded British soldiers were left to die. They were nursed back to health with the help of the waters and the Native Americans. The soldiers were eventually healthy enough to rejoin their regiment in the Charleston area. Today, Healing Springs still attracts visitors locally and regionally to partake of the delicious waters, and enjoy the soothing shade of the trees surrounding the springs on the edge of the forest and swamp.
I have visited this site on many occasions since I first had a picnic here with my mom and brother in July 2005. The renowned Miller’s Bread Basket restaurant is three miles south in Blackville and well worth the drive!
Can someone ship me some? I’m disabled and can’t walk very well and I can’t sit to travel very far. I live in Indiana. How much do you have to drink for the healing blessing and how long do you do it for? I’m willing to pay for the shipping. It would be a true blessing to see if it helps me.
Hearts_desired7370@yahoo.com or text 8124933855
We always travel there to get gallons and gallons of water. It’s about a 30-minute drive for us. Something about this cool crystal fresh water just makes you feel good and better. I’m truly thankful for it being free for everyone to enjoy. I believe God blesses that water and maybe it’s the fountain of youth ❤️❤️
I live in Omaha NE and can’t make the trip because of my own ailments, but would love to know how I could get some sent to me. It is for my husband who has been diagnosed with terminal small cell lung cancer. It’s a miracle he is still here, but he’s coming to the end of the treatment choices.
My husband and I visited and we went with a couple jugs. When we got down there, wWe decided to go buy bigger jugs for a water machine. We loaded up on water and people were down there also getting a lot so they wouldn’t have to keep driving back and forth a long distance. Our water lasted us months. We also shared our water with other people. We felt better drinking it and it’s pure. Has a great taste to it. We’re trying to decide on when will get back down there now to get more. I suggest people get this water.
So is that spout filtered or do y’all filter before drinking or y’all just drink it straight out the spout?
I would love to really get some of this water. I wonder if I could get some mailed to me.
There is also a healing spring just like this, same claims of healing but not deeded to God, located at Huger Recreation Area in Cordesville, SC. A little roadside park. It is also free and runs constantly. Very good water and much closer to the lowcountry.
In response to hours of operation:
Google Maps lists it as open 24/7.
There was no gate to go through.
I recall seeing no hours of operation/usage.
The only “rule” that I saw was DO NOT LITTER.
I went there on 9 November, 2020.
I filled up four repurposed gallon apple cider jugs. Thinking about going back again with some larger containers for family and friends (5-gallon containers maybe).
I live in Orange, Texas. I’m hoping to get to the water soon. I pray it can help me as I have lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. I barely walk.
My husband was diagnosed with Hep C in 2000. No clue where he got it, but went on treatment. His mother insisted we go get the healing water and she assured him he would be healed. We got several jugs of water and he drank it. Keep in mind he was on treatment for this disease, but before the treatment was completed his doctor took him off all medication because he said he was healed. 21 years later he is still free of Hep C. God is Good! We believe.
We’re camping in the area and checked to see if there was anything worth checking out. Found this place. Several people were filling their jugs of water. One said he comes twice/week. We took some water containers also. The water flows fast. No one has to wait to fill their containers. I washed my hair this evening and am anxious to see how it looks tomorrow. Also saw on a post The Breadbox that was in town not too far away. Run by the Mennonites, it was delicious homemade food, along with a few homemade items in the store. Definitely worth the trip to go to both. We’ll probably go back tomorrow for more water.
A friend of mine showed me where the springs are, and I have been feeling fantastic since I have been drinking the water. I’m taking some to NY for my family. It works for me and I am thankful for the opportunity to drink from there. Peace and thanks to the Creator.
I live in Kentucky and my mother lives in Indiana. I have two friends who need this as well; how do we get consent for us? I will make the drive.
Hi Sheila! No consent is needed so far as we know. The springs are owned by God and thus open to all. Best wishes to you, your mother, and your friends!
Yes, I wanted to know when you’ll be open now. And what time do you open and close each day? Thank you.
Hi Roberta, to our knowledge God’s Acre Healing Springs are still open regularly, from sunrise to sunset.
My family and I moved to Lexington, SC back in 2016. Shortly after, I heard about Healing Springs and we went. Since then, we go every two weeks and fill jugs for our drinking water. I’m a welder and always have some kind of minor injury to my skin. I always wash my hands and arms when I finish filling jugs. My little burns and scratches always heal super quick. The healing properties are real.
I visited Healing Springs Saturday the 6th of June.The water was very refreshing and had a good taste. I have been drinking some water every day. Pray that it cures my Chron’s disease. I have faith that God will rid my body from the disease.
I’m fascinated by this holy place and would love to know more.
We brought home a few gallons of the healing water when we stayed in Columbia during the hurricane last year. We still have a few gallons we never opened; I was wondering how long they would be good for? Thank you.
I had a leg injury a few years ago and the doctors said I would not be able to walk the same again. My family took me to the springs, prayed over me, and rubbed the healing water on my leg. Since then I have been walking normally with no problems at all. I truly believe I was healed through prayer and blessing of the healing water!
I live in Oakland, California. A dear friend is undergoing radiation treatment for lymphoma. Is there a way to have some of the healing water shipped to me in California? I’m on social security, but I’m can give a donation for shipping and costs, up to $40 0r $50. I know God can work miracles!
I hope someone answered your request. This water is truly a healing blessing.
Not to sound negative here, but has anybody been healed there? From the comments I know the water taste good but am wondering about actual healing.
The answers are sure to be subjective, but many swear by it.
I go once a month, almost like a pilgrimage. I bring my entire family and all.
My Dad brought me to the springs when I was 12 years old and I brought my boys. I am 55 now and make a trip from Charleston to get this blessed water, the Lord’s presence is there you can feel it!
I’m hoping my Sunday school class can take a trip there real soon. I really enjoyed the information.
Hi I’m looking forward to visiting weekend after next. I want to taste the water and visit the restaurant. Also looking for a hotel that would be close. Not trusting Trip Advisor, could you recommend a safe hotel?
I was their last Saturday and I was sceptical at first, but I tried some and I was hooked. The water has a refreshing taste, it’s like pure thoughts and a empty mind… I must say it’s a peaceful place to visit. I love the locals who enlighten you on the history of God’s Acre healing spring water.
I’m skeptical as well, but thinking about taking a trip.
I visited the spring yesterday. The water is very good. Many artesian wells have an unpleasant taste. Not so with this water. My father grew up on a farm nearby at Goodland Creek.
I was baptized there.
Thank you.
I would like to go there. But my condition is not good. My wish is” to go there”. I want to drink this water. When can I go there? Thank you so much.
Hello San, we hope you’re able to get well enough to visit. The springs are open all year at all hours and are right beyond the parking area so there is a very minimal walk.
Is there special permission needed to get the water and is there a charge
No there isn’t, you’re able to visit at any time and the water is free if you have your own jug or container.
Can you get as much water as you want. I am planning to come and want to get water for me, my mother and daughter who all have diseases that would live to know that we could be cured. I know we have an awesome God!!
May the Lord strengthen you to visit one day. I have heard good things about people being healed drinking this water. Today my ex-husband and I decided to visit this place for ourselves and golly gee the people were carrying water jugs, 5-gallon water jugs, big plastic containers, pickle jars, Hawaiian Punch containers full of water. so of course, we found a Dollar general and bought 5 liter one litre jugs of water poured it out and uset those too capture our God Acres Healing Spring Artesian water. God bless you as he strengthens you.
My stepdad was from the area. He took me and my brothers to visit the spring when we were young kids. I remember literally slipping on the mud and falling into the stream. The cool water was refreshing and tasted great. I don’t remember healing powers, just cool refreshing water. That had to be more than 50 years ago. I want to go back but I’m afraid a slip into the stream or creek would require a miracle to fix whatever bones I might break.
We could certainly understand your hesitation! Last time we visited there was a concrete walking area to a certain point but far enough down to the first well area, it may be safer these days! Hope you enjoy your visit if you find yourself there again.
I visited the Healing Springs on Wednesday and got two gallons of water. I had a rash on my face that wouldn’t go away, I put the water in a mister and put it on my face Wednesday night, today is Saturday and after applying it several times a day, it is almost completely healed. Thank God for his healing water!
Yes, Nathanael Walker was actually my 1th g.g.f. His son redesigned the front of the Church. The Walkers dominated the area with ownership of over 10,000 acres of land. As a Pastor myself, I would like to see more on the church history. I have a copy of the 200th anniversary of the Church. Noticed the Pastor’s name was Hunter. I wondered if he was related to Larry Hunter a attorney in Greenville and another Walker descendant. He did much on the history and I also recognized some of those photos. Thanks for responding.
Hello Rev. John! We would love to know more history of the church, have you ever scanned that 200th anniversary history by chance? We would love to see it.
Thank you, we are going this weekend.
Was curious – The story starts off “do not use without permission” Do not use what? The story is as old as the place itself. I have seen most of it written in various ways. My 8th G.Grandfather first walked that land and started the first Baptist Church of Healing Springs. He and his sons fought in that war along with my other 8th g. grandfather, Patrick Caine. There are no copyrites to a almost 300-year-old story.
Dear Reverend Wilson, thanks for your note and of course not! We only mean that the pictures, which are generously donated to the South Carolina Picture Project by volunteer photographers around the state, can not be used unless one has written permission from the photographers themselves. We try hard to protect their rights. The legends – and most importantly, the water – are for all to share. It is exciting that you are a descendant of the church’s founder. Do you mean Mr. Walker?
I think they are referring to the photos. I think you have to get permission from the photographer to use them.
Yes, that is what we meant 🙂
Where do I get consent? I would love to visit God’s Land
Hi! Do you know who the pastor was at Healing Springs Baptist Church in 1921?
The times I have been have always been wonderful. On the hot days it seemed to be at least ten degrees cooler down by the taps. The water, for myself, I’ll just put it out thee, the glory is to God. This place is special no doubt – I’m a believer but not a practicing Christian, you feel the power at this place though, that’s the only way I know how to describe it. I’m sure others will attest to the same. In closing I will say that if you believe in the Holy Spirit you will feel the presence here and even if you don’t or have other beliefs, or none at all, there truly is healing power in that water. Visit, be graceful and respectful. You can’t go wrong.
I live in Texas and my boss told me about this place. I would love some of that water since it sounds amazing with all of its healing properties. God is so good. I wish someone could send me some since it’s like a 15-hour drive. I am so happy that so many people have gotten to go and reap the great benefits. May God bless you all.
Lacy, we recently visited the springs since it is about a two-hour drive from our office. It is a magical place, and the water is delicious! It is heartwarming to see so many there gathering water, looking for its healing properties. We sincerely hope you are able to visit soon. It will be worth the trip!
Has anyone been able to get some of this water to you yet? If not, my husband and I MIGHT be able to!
I’ve read your post and live near the well, if you could figure out shipping I could send you some. A lot of these places don’t allow liquid to be shipped.
One of my best friends just returned from visiting this spring and brought me some back. I have had some serious health problems, but I am drinking this water every morning and praying for a total healing. I can’t wait to see and feel the healing that this water brings. In Jesus’s Name.
Neat pictures! My mom was telling me something about this place!
Hello, Priscilla from SA who commented in January 2016. I will be going to God’s Acre Healing Springs next week, Lord willing, and I will be more than happy to mail you a jug of the healing water. We will be on Spring Break next week and I plan to take a ride there. If you still want the healing water, just let me know. I’m truly excited about the trip. To God be the glory for all the testimonies that have been given. You all really encourage me, and as a disciple of the Lord, encourage me even more to spread the Good News. The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof.
It works! I have cancer and I was going to die in 3 months, but now I am healed!
How long were you drinking the water? I bought the holy blessed water from the river of Jordan last year where Jesus was baptized and I still haven’t received any healing but we don’t drink that one. I’m excited and feeling hopeful for this water since we can drink it.
God is an amazing God, and the springs are truely blessed. I am so glad you are healed.
Visited the waters yesterday. And prayed and anointed myself with the waters and collected some for drinking and using for my aches and pains. Will visit here again.
Planning to come Saturday but need to know if water freezes there. Don’t want to waste a trip.
My nephew gave me a bottle of water at Christmas and an article about it. So I decided to go to the website. One day I will go to the actual place. Very interesting.
Hello! Does anyone know if the waters have been tested after Matthew?
Love the holy waters!
A note/correction for the historical marker: British officer Banastre Tarleton was not promoted to general until after the Revolutionary War. He was a lieutenant colonel during the Revolutionary War.
My weekend adventure.
Angela Workman
Healing springs … deeded to God … how fitting … I hope to see it one day.
I wish it was true. It's just mineral water.
I have been here (in the summer) and there were people lying in the stream. They would be praying and really making it a spiritual experience.
I'm pretty sure I'm a direct descendant of Nathaniel Walker! I know my Walker line came out of Barnwell County, SC sometime between the late 1700s and early 1800s.
I hope so too. Thank you:)
Can a kind soul please ship to me? I’m all the way in SA.
Hi, Priscilla. Thank you for commenting. Hopefully, someone near the spring will see your message and reach out to you abut sending you a sample. Best of luck!
Proof……. Went to Gods Acre Healing Springs yesterday to get some healing water. Took a bottle to my grandfather in the hospital. Which he drank last night. They said his X-rays were getting worse. The medicines weren’t working or helping. They wanted to discharge him and put him in the care of hospice. Anticipating him to transition in the next couple of days.
I got a call from my nanny today telling me that his X-ray was doing better. He is doing better and they are keeping him in the hospital to continue with antibiotics. Now tell me this ain’t a blessing and that God ain’t good. Will be taking him some more tonight Faith is all you need. Believe. Claim it.
Jess
This is an amazing story! I have wanted to go to God’s Healing Water for two years since I became aware of it while my 88-year-old Daddy was in the hospital! Just can’t find time to get there between taking care of Daddy and my health! Thanks for sharing your story! God bless you and yours!
We are sincerely praying and hoping for the best for you and your dad! I hope you both are able to make a trip there together at some point in the near future. When you go, there is a very close parking lot to the beginning of the springs so it is very accessible if that time does come. Blessings to you and yours!
Can you order and ship this water? I live in Alabama.
You would have to locate someone willing to collect some and send it to you.
Update…..The week of November 9, 2015 I contacted DHEC to inquire about the status of the healing springs water, due to recent flooding in SC and was informed that the water was tested and had NO bacteria and continues to be SAFE to consume as it has always been. I thanked them for their prompt response and immediately headed to the HEALING SPRINGS, BLACKVILLE, SC…….NATURES BEST KEPT SECRET!!!!!
My grandmother is from this town but relocated to Florida when she was a child. We went to the Spring while at a family reunion. It's very beautiful. My grandmother always spoke of this place but I was just happy to be able to see it with her for the first time in 55+ years.
Headed out this morning, Jerell wants to see it.
Been there on several occasions. Please don’t let some Saudi corporation buy land close to it. They will start a water bottling company, Walmart and Silver Springs. No thank you!
Heading there after work. Not far from it!
I live in SC and pay property tax on all property that I own. How does the SC Treasurer get the tax owed on the property from God since He owns it? Is there a “spiritual loophole” that we don’t know about? And where is the Attorney/Notary that witnessed the signatures for the transfer of the deed? There’s something shady in Blackville!
The town has the right to govern their business as they may. It’s a very small town and does not utilize much of the state’s revenue. Adjacent to the spring is a wonderful store that draws a good steady business, which no doubt contributes considerable revenue to the town’s local revenue. That’s a good thing. It’s one of the rare, wholesome places, most people can appreciate.
A friend took me to visit there. It was a very hot summer day. I walked barefeet in the spring. The water was so cold, felt wonderful to my feet, I didn’t want to step out of the spring. I noticed an amazing feeling, as if the minerals regenerated the tissue in my feet. I took about 10 gallons home. I drank it over the following weeks. It’s not a myth. The water is definitely purifying to the body.
My family and I are wanting to come there to receive some water. We are leaving Friday the 4th of September. Please someone let me know if we have to request it. Thanks from the Fleming family.
Hello, Matilda. You can show up at the spring and take some water, pending how much is flowing. Safe travels!
I went down to get some of the water, and it’s not running out like it used to. What happened that water is not running out?
My Husband and I are headed to the healing springs to get some water to bring back to my sister that is battling terminal brain cancer hoping to help heal her! Please just say some prayers! Thank you
Amazing. I'm coming soon!
I have been waiting some time now to visit …this sacred place…I most definitly will be going this weekend!!!
Wonderful place so peaceful and relaxing. Just being there lightened my heart and cleared my mind. I can’t wait to go back.
Blanche is making plans to visit, too. I need a healing, praise God.
Yes, it was everything and more. I got about 13 gallons. I had it to myself for about 30 mins. Does anyone know the particulars in terms of being regulated? I have a friend challenging its safety. Please send me proof at gmail.com, thanks. It was a nice slice of Heaven and very direct with my GPS.
Can’t wait, hope the area is safe and everything it is supposed to be. Peace
Visited God's Acre Healing Springs today. As a little girl, my mom and aunts visited the spring frequently, and of course they believed in the healing powers of the spring water. Many jugs were filled and brought home with us. My mom lived to be 96 years old and my aunt lived to be 85. I would like to contribute their longevity to the healing powers of the spring water. I don't have any scientific proof but I do believe in God and I know he works miracles. I'm personally claiming the healing powers of the healing springs……I have FAITH…..Today I filled jugs and bottles of water to bring home. While there I drank about 32 oz of water and the taste was crisp, fresh, unlike any other water I've tasted. Research indicates that this water has been tested and found to have many minerals in it. I will be returning to God's Acre Healing Springs…..DON"T MISS OUT ON YOUR BLESSING!!!!!
I must check it out, pretty interesting.
Gods Acre, Healing Springs, Blackville, SC is known for its healing powers since the Revolutionary War where soldiers were healed from the water. I have mapped this and am going there as soon as possible. You can bring jugs and bottles to bring the water home. From WLTX, Channel 19 in SC.
Just heard this on the news and googled it and this is very interesting, think I might go there one weekend and check it out
Making plan to visit the springs. Anyone wanting some water, drop off your jugs.
Healing Springs, well worth the trip.
My father-in-law, who will be 94 this April 1st, 2015, came and told me he is planning to go here in a few days. He just bought 20 containers to come fill. His words were faith and believing in God. I didn’t know about it until now. God is good all the time all the time God is good. I pray for all those who come be blessed by our Lord. Amen
How much does it cost to go see this and how much is the water? I have a son who lives in SC and I would like him to carry me to visit and get some healing water after we pray over it. I need healing in my body.
The springs are accessible to the public, free of charge. Best of luck.
I lived in South Carolina for a number of years, and I have never heard of these healing springs. What an awesome blessing! This is a wonderful place of praise.
I was having trouble getting pregnant and read an article about the springs. My husband and I went to get water and prayed while we were there. I got pregnant that night! I have a beautiful daughter to show for it!
I make the round trip from Charleston whenever I can. This makes the absolute BEST ice. You need at least 5 gallons and nothing but this water. When it is gone, you can tell the difference! And PRAY while you are there.
My son, granddaughter, and I went early one morning just as the sun began to rise. It was one of the most peaceful and pleasant places I’ve ever visited. As I filled my water bottles, I prayed asking God and believing that this water will be a miracles for healing.
It is a true mineral spring in the sense that the water has more dissolved natural (and healthful) minerals than most stream waters or deep well waters in that general region. It is more like limestone aquifer water. You can get empty clean new gallon milk jugs at the nearby Mennonite Store (on Hwy. 3).
What is the address that will take you to the spring. I would like to vist and get some water.
Hi, James. There is a map and address above. Good luck, and let us know if you get any water!
We thank God and Mr. Boylston for the dedication of this precious Spring, so that all can come and get artesian water at no charge. It’s a priceless gift.
There’s a small country store on the corner that is a delight to visit as well. We make it a point to stop in each time we come.
We travel once a month to fill jugs and bring them home. Our local tap water removes the stainless steel coating from our silverware in the dishwasher, so we sure don’t want to drink it!
My daughter, who moved from California across the country to SC, took me here once. Such memories!
Greater Beulah Baptist Church of Jacksonville was here to experience the miracles of God’s healing water. What a blessing it is.
Taking some friends to the spring, and we are praying for a blessing.
My daughter and son-in-law (whose family lives in Blackville) brought me a gallon back. I loved it!!! Begging my husband to take me there next summer, and will bring back to Texas as many jugs as my dually can carry.