Little River State Park

🌲 OVERVIEW

Set on the shores of the Waterbury Reservoir and surrounded by the forested slopes of the Green Mountains, Little River State Park is one of Vermont’s most beloved outdoor destinations. Located just minutes from downtown Waterbury, this park combines lakeside relaxation, scenic hiking, and rich local history, all in a peaceful, natural setting that invites you to explore — or just unwind.

Whether you’re paddling at sunrise, roasting marshmallows under the stars, or hiking trails lined with stone walls and cellar holes, Little River offers a uniquely Vermont camping experience that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

🏕️ THE CAMPGROUND

Tucked into the woods along the western edge of the Waterbury Reservoir, the campground at Little River is spacious, shaded, and thoughtfully laid out for everything from rugged tent camping to family RV vacations.

Campground features include:

• 81 tent/RV sites, including both standard and lean-to shelters
• 20 lean-tos for added shelter and comfort
• 5 remote paddle-in campsites for adventurous campers
• Clean restrooms with hot showers
• Drinking water, dishwashing sinks, and firewood for sale
• Picnic tables and fire pits at every site
• Pet-friendly sites available
• Caretaker and ranger staff on site to assist campers

Sites are nestled into the forest for privacy and shade, with easy access to trails, the reservoir, and recreational areas.

🛶 WATER, TRAILS & WILDLIFE

With direct access to the 850-acre Waterbury Reservoir, Little River State Park is a paradise for paddlers, swimmers, and outdoor explorers. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent, and the quiet coves and calm waters make this a perfect lake for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

On land, the park boasts over 30 miles of multi-use trails, weaving through what was once a 19th-century hill farm community. These trails feature old foundations, cemeteries, and stone walls, offering a fascinating glimpse into Vermont’s past — all surrounded by lush forest, wildlife, and mountain views.

Popular activities include:

• Swimming from the sandy beach and designated swim areas
• Boating and fishing (with boat launch nearby)
• Hiking and biking on trails like the Dalley Loop and History Hike
• Birdwatching, moose spotting, and exploring hidden corners of the reservoir
• Winter access for snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and fat biking

🔥 CAMPFIRE COOKING & LOCAL FLAVOR

There’s nothing like enjoying a meal by the fire — and at Little River, every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, ready for your camp stove or cookout classics.

While the park doesn’t have a full camp store, firewood is available on-site, and you’re just a short drive from:

• Waterbury’s vibrant downtown, with groceries, restaurants, cafés, and breweries
• Vermont favorites like Ben & Jerry’s, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and Prohibition Pig
• Farm stands and general stores offering maple syrup, cheeses, baked goods, and fresh local produce

Whether you cook at camp or explore Vermont’s culinary scene, you’ll eat well at Little River.

🧺 GROUP CAMPING & FAMILY ADVENTURE

Little River State Park is a perfect setting for families, school groups, and outdoor clubs. With large open fields, group lean-tos, and wide site layouts, it’s easy to plan:

• Reunions and group gatherings
• Scout trips and educational hikes
• Weekend adventures for family and friends

Park rangers often lead nature walks and interpretive programs, helping visitors of all ages discover the natural and cultural history of the park.

📍 PARK ADDRESS

Little River State Park
Waterbury Reservoir
3444 Little River Rd
Waterbury, VT 05676

🕒 HOURS OF OPERATION

Seasonal Operation:
Open mid-May – mid-October
Day Use: 10:00 AM – Sunset
Campground Office: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
(Registered campers have 24/7 access to campsites)

Reservations recommended during peak summer and foliage weekends.

🌄 WHY LITTLE RIVER STATE PARK?

Because here, the lake sparkles, the trails tell stories, and every night ends with a fire, a sky full of stars, and the sound of loons in the distance.

Whether you come for the paddling, the peaceful campsites, or the fascinating glimpse into Vermont’s past, Little River State Park is a place to connect — to nature, to history, and to each other.