Ein Yorke'am, Natural spring in Negev, Israel

Ein Yorke'am is a seasonal spring in the upper part of Nahal Hatira, east of the Great Makhtesh. In winter groundwater rises above the surface and floods a pool up to 5 metres deep, fed also by rain and flash floods. By late summer only the lower pool holds water, while the upper part dries out. The spring is surrounded mainly by reeds and ashlar bushes.

Ancient steps were cut into the northern bank of Nahal Hatira to bring camels down to drink from the pool. Beside the spring stands Metzad Yerqam, a Byzantine-period site that served as a security point. The spring itself is seasonal, fed mainly in winter when groundwater rises above the surface.

The name Yorqe'am likely derives from the Hebrew word for green, yaroq, referring to the reeds and tamarisk that grow around the pool. The spring sits on the Israel National Trail, and the nearby Byzantine-era fort of Metzad Yerqam guarded the site.

Reach the spring on foot from a small car park beside Route 206: a green-marked trail descends about 500 m to the ancient steps cut into the stream's northern bank. The Israel National Trail passes the site. Camping at the spring is forbidden under Nature and Parks Authority rules so animals can move after dark; a night camp lies next to the road.

The spring is seasonal, not year-round: it flows mainly in winter, when groundwater rises above the surface and floods a pool up to 5 metres deep. By late summer only a little water remains in the lower pool, and animals reach the groundwater by digging a little in the sand.