Description
Little River State Park is one of the most popular parks in central Vermont. Waterbury Reservoir is particularly favored for boating with a portion of the reservoir devoted to quieter uses. Angling for bass and trout is as popular as water-skiing and boating.
Enjoy swimming beaches, play areas, boat rentals and launch, and miles of hiking and mountain bike trails in the adjacent Mt. Mansfield State Forest. Self-guided history and nature trails are located close to the camping area.
Geography:
In the early 1800s, pioneers cleared fields, rocks, and stumps in Ricker Basin and Cotton Brook. A settlement of 50 or so families once lived in this area. The hard demands of the land and weather forced younger generations to abandon the farms. Today, old cemeteries, sawmill remains, old town roads, bridges and many cellar holes can still be seen; reminders of the past community.
On November 3 and 4 of 1927, torrential rains caused local rivers to rise and drove residents to their roofs. Due to the catastrophic flood, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, constructed the Waterbury Dam between 1935 and 1938 to control future floods. The CCC camp here was a fully operating, thriving community with more than 80 buildings, and housing 2,000 men at its peak. Now, half a century later, only a few solitary chimneys and concrete foundations remain and are highlighted along a universally accessible trail.
Recreation:
Excellent camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and mountain biking. Canoes and kayaks are available to rent. Nature and interpretive programs are also available.
Facilities:
5 rental cabins, 71 tent/RV sites, 20 lean-tos, restrooms with flush toilets, hold and cold running water and coin-operated showers. There is a campers' beach, play area, boat launch and nature center. Adjacent to the park there are many miles of hiking trails. There are also 27 remote campsites along the Waterbury Reservoir shoreline available on a first-come, first-served basis that are only accessible by boat. Drinking water is available throughout the park. Firewood is available for purchase. There is a RV sanitary dump station but there are no hookups.
Nearby Attractions:
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, Cold Hollow Cider Hill, Stowe Mountain Resort gondolas, Zip Tours and Treetop Adventures and Trapp Family Lodge