Waterbury Reservoir Waterbury Vermont
A serene Vermont reservoir offering stunning foliage, unique paddle-up camping, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for kayaking, swimming, and peaceful es...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Waterbury Reservoir Waterbury Vermont
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Vermont reservoir offering stunning foliage, unique paddle-up camping, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for kayaking, swimming, and peaceful escapes.
"Beautiful reservoir to walk around or kayak. Quite and peaceful."
🎯 Arrive Early for Camping
For first-come, first-served paddle-up sites, especially on Fridays, arrive very early.
🚤 Boat Registration Check
Ensure your boat registration is up-to-date before launching.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paddle-Up Campsites
Various locations around the reservoir
Unique campsites accessible only by water, offering a secluded and peaceful experience.
Scenic Paddling
Waterbury Reservoir
Explore the calm waters surrounded by stunning Vermont foliage and mountain views.
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Sunset Views
Mount Hunger overlook
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the reservoir and surrounding peaks.
Wildlife Spotting
Waterbury Reservoir
Keep an eye out for beavers, loons, and potentially moose in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservoir Access & Camping
Boating & Water Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Camping
For first-come, first-served paddle-up sites, especially on Fridays, arrive very early.
🚤 Boat Registration Check
Ensure your boat registration is up-to-date before launching.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Swimming
Great for families with young children; sand and shallow water are a hit.
🥾 Hike for Views
Consider hiking Mount Hunger for panoramic views of the reservoir and mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Camping
For first-come, first-served paddle-up sites, especially on Fridays, arrive very early.
🚤 Boat Registration Check
Ensure your boat registration is up-to-date before launching.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Swimming
Great for families with young children; sand and shallow water are a hit.
🥾 Hike for Views
Consider hiking Mount Hunger for panoramic views of the reservoir and mountains.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rentals typically start in late May for a scenic paddle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Waterbury Reservoir's beauty and tranquility, highlighting its suitability for swimming, paddling, and family outings. The unique paddle-up campsites and scenic views are major draws. Some note the need for early arrival for camping and the absence of lifeguards, but overall, it's considered a peaceful and awesome place to visit. +1
"I went out here for A camping trip, this place was very quiet! The campsites are now on reservation mode online. Some sites are easy access from the road and some definitely are not…sites 4,5,6 and 9 as far as I could tell were pretty cool had their own beaches."
Serena
"Beautiful reservoir to walk around or kayak.Kayak and boat rentals are available after the end of May .Quite and peaceful ."
Puja Pant
"This place is awesome!! You can bring your boat. Make sure all your boat registration is up to date. There is a cement boat launch. Many people don't know this, but there is actually more than one boat launch at the res - If you can find it on a map than you deserve to not pay the fee at the regular Waterbury Reservoir gate. Gates close at sunset, so the time you can leave with your vehicle changes slightly every day. Kayaking rentals are available. There is a beautiful Airbnb property very close to here too. Camp where ever you like. It's a state forest! Behave yourselves and respect the wild life. There is a game warden usually on duty."
Karen Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterbury Reservoir is located in Waterbury, Vermont. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from the main roads. Many visitors use it as a day trip destination or a base for exploring nearby Stowe.
Yes, there are several boat launches around the reservoir, including a main cement launch. Some visitors suggest finding less obvious ones to potentially avoid fees.
Paddle-up campsites are best accessed by kayak or canoe. For first-come, first-served sites, arriving very early, especially on a Friday, is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to the reservoir are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the most flexibility.
Waterbury Reservoir is conveniently located just about 15 minutes from downtown Stowe, making it an easy addition to a Stowe itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There may be day-use fees for accessing certain areas of the reservoir, particularly at designated gates. Camping fees also apply.
Some campsites at Waterbury Reservoir are now reservation-based online, while paddle-up sites remain first-come, first-served. It's best to check the official website for current reservation policies.
The gates at Waterbury Reservoir typically close at sunset. This means the time you can leave with your vehicle will vary slightly each day depending on the sunset time.
Yes, kayak and canoe rentals are usually available at Waterbury Reservoir, typically starting from late May.
While specific fees can vary, day-use access to the reservoir may involve a fee, especially at main access points.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include kayaking, canoeing, boating, swimming, fishing, and camping. Hiking to nearby viewpoints like Mount Hunger is also a great option.
Yes, it's a beautiful place to swim, with pleasant water temperatures in the summer. Families with young children often enjoy the sandy areas and shallow water.
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Waterbury Reservoir. Visitors are advised to supervise children closely and exercise caution while swimming.
You might spot beavers, loons, and on rare occasions, moose. It's a great spot for nature observation.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, it's common for state forests and recreational areas to have leash laws for dogs. It's advisable to check local regulations.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating
The reservoir is known for smallmouth bass fishing, among other species.
Yes, you can bring your own boat, but ensure all registration and safety requirements are met.
While not detailed, it's always wise to be aware of any posted speed limits or no-wake zones to ensure safety and respect for other users.
Many consider it a top spot for fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass.
Kayaks, canoes, and smaller motorboats are commonly seen on the reservoir.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the water, and remember that the reservoir is a state forest, so respecting the environment is key. 🏕️ Camping Enthusiasts
🛶 Paddlers & Boaters
+2 Kayak and boat rentals are available, making it easy to get out on the water. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Waterbury Reservoir
While some sites are now reservation-based online, the paddle-up sites maintain their first-come, first-served nature. Visitors are encouraged to respect the wildlife and the natural environment, as a game warden is usually on duty to ensure adherence to regulations.
Paddling Paradise
The reservoir is particularly breathtaking during the fall, when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. +1Beginners and experienced paddlers alike can enjoy the reservoir. Rental services are available, typically starting in late May, making it accessible for those without their own equipment.
+1A Photographer's Dream
The changing seasons also present unique photographic moments, with the vibrant fall foliage creating a picturesque scene that draws many visitors. +1Beyond the reservoir itself, the area is rich with iconic New England scenery. From the reflections on the water during a calm morning
to the sweeping vistas from elevated points, there are endless compositions to capture. Whether you're interested in landscapes, wildlife, or the serene beauty of a quiet morning paddle, Waterbury Reservoir provides a captivating subject for any photographer. +1
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