Picture taking from one of the sites at Little River State Park
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Little River State Park Waterbury Vermont

4.6
·388 reviews·Waterbury, United States

Discover Vermont's natural beauty and history at Little River State Park, featuring Waterbury Reservoir, ghost village ruins, and scenic trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Peaceful reservoir, easy parking

CrowdLow
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Picture taking from one of the sites at Little River State Park

Little River State Park Waterbury Vermont

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Peaceful reservoir, easy parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Vermont's natural beauty and history at Little River State Park, featuring Waterbury Reservoir, ghost village ruins, and scenic trails.

4.6
(388 reviews)

"Vermont State parks are top notch, and Little River is no exception! Stunning views of the lake and mountains."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Secure Paddle-Up Campsites

Arrive early, especially Fridays, for first-come, first-served paddle-up sites on Waterbury Reservoir. :tent:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Ghost Village

Wander through the historic Ricker Basin ruins, a unique glimpse into the past. :ghost:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterbury Reservoir

Waterbury Reservoir

Central feature of the park

A stunning lake offering boating, fishing, swimming, and breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

InstagramReddit
Ricker Basin Ghost Village

Ricker Basin Ghost Village

Various locations within the park

Discover the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a 1927 flood-ravaged community. A unique historical exploration.

Instagram
Universally Accessible Trail

Universally Accessible Trail

Designated paths

Enjoy nature on this flat, easy-to-navigate trail, ensuring everyone can experience the park's beauty.

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Mountain Biking Trails

Mountain Biking Trails

Various trail networks

Explore a network of trails suitable for various skill levels, offering scenic rides through the Vermont landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Reservoir Access & Paddle-Up Sites

Waterbury Reservoir offers unique paddle-up campsites. These are first-come, first-served, so arriving early, especially on a Friday, is crucial for securing a spot. Plan your put-in point and be prepared for potential crowds during peak times. Reddit

Ghost Village History & Trails

Explore the remnants of Ricker Basin, a former farming community devastated by the 1927 flood. The park features accessible trails, including a Universally Accessible Trail, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty and historical significance. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Summer weekdays
Why
Peaceful reservoir, easy parking
Crowd
Low
When
Friday mornings
Why
Secure paddle-up sites
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Fall foliage beauty
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#floridasprings #littleriversprings rating this florida spring to see if you should visit it. the clarity of the water was clear and blue. the spring itself is beautiful.
@beautifulflorida
2.3K likes • 59.8K views

🎯 Secure Paddle-Up Campsites

Arrive early, especially Fridays, for first-come, first-served paddle-up sites on Waterbury Reservoir. Reddit :tent:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Ghost Village

Wander through the historic Ricker Basin ruins, a unique glimpse into the past. Instagram :ghost:

The @bike_mamba - @onionriveroutdoors Tuesday Night Ride heads to Little River State Park in Waterbury tonight! We’ll split into Mild-Medium-Spicy smaller groups per usual and enjoy the flow of this awesome @watavt network! Give yourself a little extra commute time as Little River Rd is always a bit longer than you think, speeds should be kept slow out of respect for the homes along the road, and ...
bike_mamba
18 likes • 1.5K views
Come along with us for a day spent in a Vermont State Park! We started the day exploring campsites at Little River State Parks and ended with a boat ride on Waterbury Reservoir over to Waterbury Center State Park. Thank you @vtstateparks for an unforgettable day. 🌲 🌼 🛶 🎣 #skidavida #vermontparks
skidagram
854 likes • 13.9K views

🚲 Bike the Trails

Enjoy the flow of the @watavt network for a great biking experience. Instagram :mountain_bicyclist:

🛶 Kayak/SUP Rentals

Rent newer, well-maintained kayaks and SUPs for a fun day on the reservoir. Instagram :kayak:

Nature is for everyone, especially flat trails through ghost villages ✨ One of the most underrated trail networks is hiding at Little River State Park. This massive park is tucked in the mountains along Waterbury Reservoir. This region was a thriving farm community until the 1927 Flood. Thanks to the Waterbury Dam, now it’s an accessible rec center with miles of trails through the ghost village. ...
vermontforreal
1.1K likes • 34K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Secure Paddle-Up Campsites

Arrive early, especially Fridays, for first-come, first-served paddle-up sites on Waterbury Reservoir. Reddit :tent:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Ghost Village

Wander through the historic Ricker Basin ruins, a unique glimpse into the past. Instagram :ghost:

🚲 Bike the Trails

Enjoy the flow of the @watavt network for a great biking experience. Instagram :mountain_bicyclist:

🛶 Kayak/SUP Rentals

Rent newer, well-maintained kayaks and SUPs for a fun day on the reservoir. Instagram :kayak:

♿ Accessible Nature Walks

The Universally Accessible Trail is perfect for everyone to enjoy the park's scenery. Instagram :wheelchair:

🧼 Clean Campsites & Facilities

Expect clean sites and updated bathrooms with warm showers, though some older facilities exist. Reddit+1 :shower:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(388 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Little River State Park for its clean, well-maintained facilities, including updated bathrooms and comfortable cabins. The beautiful Waterbury Reservoir and the unique historical ghost village are major highlights, offering a peaceful and engaging experience. While some older park facilities exist, the overall atmosphere is serene and enjoyable, making it a top-rated Vermont State Park.

"Friendly, helpful staff and excellent accommodations ! The entire place was clean and beautiful. We stayed in a cabin which was comfortable and quiet. Very nice !
Went for a six mile hike and I didn't see a single piece of trash anywhere in the campground or on the Stevenson trail ! So nice to have that where there has been no trace of man. Rented kayaks for the afternoon and the equipment was newer and in great condition. Cost of the getaway was very reasonable !
You will love it here ! Everyone was quiet and pleasant in the campground. No radio noise, and only one barking dog for an hour or so. Relaxed around the fire to the sound of bullfrogs and woke up to the sound of a loon on the water. Even had a chipmunk visit and snag a piece of cheese popcorn 😁 Exquisite !"

Aaron Gauthier

"Nice mostly level sites. Beautiful Reservoir! Bathrooms are like all Maine State Parks - Old Antiquated, but full blast warm water. Could knock off 1 Star, but so what is a perfect shower worth? The MTB in Stowe is the best, and here also decent to good"

Edward Bloom

"Vermont State parks are top notch, and Little River is no exception! Updated bathrooms with single stall showers and stunning views of the lake and mountains is all you need. Campsites are clean too"

Stephanie Y

What People Like

Clean and updated facilities
Beautiful reservoir views
Unique historical sites

What People Dislike

Some older park facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Little River State Park is located in Waterbury, Vermont, accessible via Little River Road. Be aware that Little River Road can sometimes take longer than expected, so allow extra travel time. Instagram

Yes, parking is generally available, and even on summer weekdays, it's often easy to find a spot at the Waterbury Reservoir. Reddit

Public transport options to Little River State Park are limited. It's best to travel by car. Instagram

Roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained, but Little River Road can be winding and may take longer than anticipated. Instagram

While specific entrance fees can vary, Vermont State Parks generally have day-use fees. Camping fees apply for overnight stays. Check the official Vermont State Parks website for current pricing. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For regular campsites, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. However, the popular paddle-up sites on Waterbury Reservoir are first-come, first-served. Reddit

State parks typically have dawn-to-dusk hours for day use, while campgrounds operate 24/7 for registered campers. It's best to check the official Vermont State Parks website for specific hours of operation for facilities like the boat launch. Instagram

Vermont State Parks may offer discounts for certain groups or through multi-day passes. Inquire directly with the park or check their official website for details. Reddit

Absolutely! Little River State Park is a great destination for day trips, offering hiking, swimming, and reservoir access. InstagramReddit

Generally, pets are allowed in Vermont State Parks but must be leashed and are often restricted from swimming areas or specific facilities. Always check the park's specific pet policy before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking, biking on dedicated trails, swimming, fishing, and boating on Waterbury Reservoir. Kayak and SUP rentals are available. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park offers various hiking trails, including the accessible Universally Accessible Trail and trails around the reservoir and through historical areas. Instagram+1

Swimming is permitted in designated areas of Waterbury Reservoir. The water is generally clear and refreshing during the summer months. TikTok

Campsites are generally clean and mostly level. The park offers updated bathrooms with single-stall showers, though some older facilities may still be present. Reddit+1

Yes, fishing is a popular activity on Waterbury Reservoir. Ensure you have the appropriate Vermont fishing license. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Little River State Park does not have on-site restaurants. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or to prepare at your campsite. The nearby town of Waterbury offers dining options. Reddit

Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings at campsites, provided there are no fire bans in effect. Always check current regulations. Reddit

Yes, the park usually has designated picnic areas with tables, perfect for a day trip. Instagram

Waterbury, VT, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to breweries and restaurants, catering to different tastes. Reddit

There are grocery stores in the town of Waterbury, making it convenient to stock up on supplies before heading into the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Waterbury Reservoir offers stunning lake and mountain vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Ricker Basin ruins also provide unique photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

The park's natural setting makes it a potential spot for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for birds, chipmunks, and other local fauna. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow on the reservoir and mountains. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the specific park regulations regarding drone operation. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive reservoir views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Little River State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Universally Accessible Trail is perfect for strollers and little legs, ensuring everyone can explore. Renting kayaks or paddleboards on Waterbury Reservoir offers a fun, shared adventure. Instagram+1

Camping here provides a great opportunity for kids to experience nature, with clean campsites and the chance to spot local wildlife like chipmunks. Reddit The historical aspect of the ghost village can also spark curiosity and imagination. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food services are limited. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Hikers

Cyclists will appreciate the well-maintained mountain biking trails that are part of the @watavt network, offering a good mix of flow and challenge. Instagram Hikers have a variety of options, from the easy, accessible paths to more rugged routes around the reservoir and through the park's historical areas. Instagram+1

Be sure to check trail maps before you go and wear appropriate gear. The park's natural beauty provides a rewarding experience for anyone looking to get active outdoors. Consider bringing a bike repair kit for cycling excursions.

🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts

Waterbury Reservoir is the main draw for water sports lovers. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating with rentals readily available. Instagram The park offers easy access points for launching your own watercraft as well. Reddit

Even if you don't rent, simply relaxing by the water or enjoying a picnic with reservoir views is a delightful experience. The calm waters on weekday mornings are particularly pleasant for a peaceful paddle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Ricker Basin Ghost Village

Little River State Park holds a fascinating historical secret: the Ricker Basin ghost village. This area was once a thriving farming community, home to numerous families for over 130 years. However, the devastating flood of 1927 changed everything. The floodwaters, combined with the subsequent construction of the Waterbury Dam to control future flooding, led to the abandonment of the village. Instagram

Today, visitors can wander through the park and discover the remnants of this past life. Stone foundations, old cellar holes, and overgrown paths are scattered throughout the woods, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who once lived here. It's a unique opportunity to connect with local history in a serene natural setting. Instagram+1

Walking these trails feels like stepping back in time. The quiet atmosphere, punctuated only by the sounds of nature, adds to the eerie yet beautiful experience. It's a reminder of nature's power and the resilience of communities. Remember to tread lightly and respect the historical significance of the site.

Waterbury Reservoir: A Hub for Recreation

The centerpiece of Little River State Park is the expansive Waterbury Reservoir, a vital recreational resource for the region. This large body of water is perfect for a variety of activities, from leisurely boating and fishing to more active pursuits like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The reservoir's clear waters and surrounding mountain scenery create a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor adventure. InstagramReddit

Rentals for kayaks and SUPs are available, making it easy for visitors to get out on the water. The park offers convenient access points, including a boat launch that can help you avoid traffic on Route 100. Even on busy summer weekdays, it's often possible to find a peaceful spot to enjoy the reservoir's tranquility. Reddit

Beyond water activities, the reservoir's shores are ideal for picnicking and simply relaxing while taking in the breathtaking views. The sound of loons on the water and the rustling of leaves create a truly serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind. Reddit

Cycling and Hiking Trails for All Levels

Little River State Park boasts an impressive network of trails catering to both hikers and cyclists. The park is known for its flowy mountain biking trails, part of the larger @watavt network, offering enjoyable rides for various skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned rider or looking for a more relaxed spin, there's a trail for you. Instagram

For hikers, the park provides diverse options. The Universally Accessible Trail is a standout feature, offering a flat and smooth path that allows everyone to experience the natural beauty of the park. Instagram Beyond this, trails wind through forests, along the reservoir, and past historical sites, providing ample opportunities for exploration and scenic views. Instagram

When planning your visit, consider the terrain and your fitness level. Some trails might be more challenging, while others are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family bike ride. Always wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of trail conditions, especially after rain.

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