Waterbury Dam
Waterbury Dam creates a vast reservoir, a popular spot for water recreation and scenic beauty in Vermont.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm waters for recreation
Waterbury Dam
Best Time
Calm waters for recreation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waterbury Dam creates a vast reservoir, a popular spot for water recreation and scenic beauty in Vermont.
"A beautiful reservoir offering great boating and fishing, with unique events like the Silent Reading Party."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the reservoir can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekday visits.
🛶 Paddle-Up Campsites
If camping, paddle-up sites are first-come, first-served. Arrive very early on Fridays to snag a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterbury Reservoir
Impounded by Waterbury Dam
A vast, scenic reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Enjoy the tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty.
Waterbury Dam Structure
Overlooking the Reservoir
An impressive feat of engineering offering panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape. A great spot for photos.
Silent Reading Party
Along the Waterbury Dam
Join a unique community event for a peaceful hour of reading by the water. Bring your favorite book and enjoy the serenity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Waterbury Dam
Recreation & Access at Waterbury Reservoir
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the reservoir can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekday visits.
🛶 Paddle-Up Campsites
If camping, paddle-up sites are first-come, first-served. Arrive very early on Fridays to snag a spot.
📚 Bring a Book for Reading Party
Participate in the unique Silent Reading Party by the dam. Just bring your own book and enjoy the quiet.
🏞️ Explore the Reservoir
The reservoir is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the reservoir can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekday visits.
🛶 Paddle-Up Campsites
If camping, paddle-up sites are first-come, first-served. Arrive very early on Fridays to snag a spot.
📚 Bring a Book for Reading Party
Participate in the unique Silent Reading Party by the dam. Just bring your own book and enjoy the quiet.
🏞️ Explore the Reservoir
The reservoir is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
🥶 Winter Activities
In winter, the reservoir can be used for sledding. Be cautious of conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Waterbury Dam and Reservoir for its beautiful natural scenery and recreational opportunities, particularly boating and fishing. The unique Silent Reading Party is a highlight for many. However, some note that parking can be extremely limited, and securing paddle-up campsites requires early arrival.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterbury Dam is accessible via Little River Road, or you can navigate to the Waterbury Reservoir Boat Launch. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
The Waterbury Reservoir Boat Launch is a primary access point. Experienced campers suggest exploring various spots for optimal entry, especially if aiming for paddle-up campsites.
Public transport options to Waterbury Dam are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the most flexibility.
Road closures can occur due to incidents like water main breaks or rollovers on nearby highways like I-84. It's advisable to check local news or traffic updates before your trip. +1
Parking is often limited, particularly during peak season and weekends. Arriving early in the morning or visiting on a weekday is your best bet for securing a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entrance fee for accessing the Waterbury Dam or Reservoir for general recreation. However, specific activities or parking areas might have associated costs.
The Waterbury Reservoir is generally accessible year-round for outdoor recreation. Specific facilities or boat launches may have seasonal hours, so it's best to check local information.
Paddle-up campsites at Waterbury Reservoir are first-come, first-served and may require a camping permit. It's recommended to confirm requirements with local authorities before your visit.
Activities like boating, fishing, and swimming are popular. Always be aware of local regulations, water conditions, and safety guidelines.
Yes, personal boats are generally allowed on Waterbury Reservoir. Ensure your vessel complies with all state and local boating regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Waterbury Reservoir is a prime spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature.
Fishing is a popular activity. Anglers can cast lines from the shore or from a boat. Popular species may include bass, trout, and perch.
The Silent Reading Party is a community event held along the Waterbury Dam where participants gather to read silently together for an hour. It's a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery.
Absolutely! Waterbury Dam and Reservoir offer a beautiful setting for a day trip, with opportunities for picnicking, enjoying the views, and engaging in water activities.
Expect picturesque views of the expansive Waterbury Reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and natural landscapes. It's a tranquil escape.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the dam structure itself, the expansive Waterbury Reservoir, and the surrounding natural beauty. Sunrise and sunset often provide dramatic lighting.
The top of the dam offers panoramic views. Exploring the shoreline can also yield unique perspectives of the reservoir and its reflections.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the FAA for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive reservoir and dam. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique experience, consider participating in the Silent Reading Party if your children enjoy quiet activities and books. It's a peaceful way to spend an afternoon. If visiting during winter, the reservoir can be a spot for sledding, offering a different kind of family adventure, but always prioritize safety and check ice conditions.
+1🏕️ Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond camping, the reservoir is perfect for those who love boating, fishing, and kayaking. The extensive shoreline provides numerous opportunities for exploration. Experienced campers advise scouting out different put-in points to find the best access for your chosen activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Recreation at Waterbury Reservoir
Beyond water activities, the surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying the scenic Vermont landscape. The dam itself provides a unique vantage point for appreciating the scale of the reservoir and its integration with the environment. Remember to check for any water quality advisories or specific regulations before engaging in recreational activities.
Winter transforms the reservoir into a different kind of playground. While water activities cease, the frozen expanse can be used for sledding, offering a fun, albeit potentially hazardous, winter pastime. Always exercise caution and be aware of ice conditions if venturing onto the frozen reservoir.
Community and Events
While the dam and reservoir are primarily natural attractions, the broader Waterbury area has seen discussions around local issues, including debates on the presence of pay-by-the-hour motels. These discussions highlight the ongoing community dialogue about urban development and its impact.
It's also worth noting that the Waterbury area, like many towns, experiences occasional disruptions that affect daily life, such as water main breaks that can lead to school closures and water advisories. These events, while inconvenient, underscore the community's resilience and the importance of local infrastructure.
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