State begins reservations for remote campsites at Waterbury Reservoir parks

May 22, 2021 | By Waterbury Roundabout

Kayakers on the Waterbury Reservoir earlier this month. Reservations are now available for remote campsites popular among those who like to hike and paddle at the state parks on the reservoir. Photo by Gordon Miller

Due to increased popularity and use, a new reservation system has been put in place for remote campsites around the Waterbury Reservoir, according to state parks officials. 

“Waterbury Reservoir is a treasure in our state,” said Michael Snyder, Vermont’s Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation. “We look forward to continuing to provide remote recreational opportunities to park visitors while continuing with our stewardship of the resources.”

That mission will now mean a system to bring order to increasing activity by asking the public to plan ahead and make a reservation. 

For an $8 fee, campers now may reserve one of 27 remote sites managed by the staff at the state parks surrounding the reservoir. The system opened May 15 and will accept reservations through Oct. 24. 

Each year, more than 75,000 visitors enjoy the natural resources and recreational opportunities connected with the 863-acre Waterbury Reservoir. Little River State Park, Waterbury Center State Park, and the surrounding forest land are popular destinations for boating, swimming, paddling, fishing, camping and hiking. 

Recently improved boat launches at the Waterbury Dam, Blush Hill, and Moscow Paddlers’ Access have allowed easier access for boaters and remote campers. 

“Waterbury Reservoir is one of the most popular lakes in our state park system and definitely in central Vermont,” said Susan Bulmer, northeast parks regional manager for the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. “As stewards of state land and the parks, our department is responsible for conserving and managing the natural resources within our parks, while providing a safe and enjoyable recreational experience for visitors.”

The reservoir has grown increasingly popular over the last 10 years and even moreso since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. As a result, state park staff have noted that remote campsites have seen unprecedented use and some misuse which has led to the new system.

“Recently, more visitors have requested that we take reservations for remote sites so that they are not paddling around on a Friday afternoon trying to find a vacant site to camp for the weekend,” explained Bulmer.

“When campsites are not available, visitors often make their own campsite, which is illegal. We are attempting to minimize resource impacts and potential user conflicts.”

The state parks department manages 27 designated remote campsites along the perimeter of the reservoir. Since 2012, parks staff have worked on managing users, developing remote campsites in appropriate locations, and adding needed amenities such as composting toilets, fire rings, and tent platforms. Park staff have consistently monitored use since 2014.

“The public supports management of remote campsites and is also willing to pay for a campsite as indicated in survey results from 2013. We have eased into more management each year as needed to help with use and behavioral transition of visitors,” Bulmer said, adding that goals for staff are to protect resources and maintain the character of remote camping.

Reservations will aim to guarantee campers that their site is available when they arrive. Campers are encouraged to call in advance to check on availability prior to traveling to the reservoir. 

Eric Chittenden, a volunteer board member with the nonprofit organization Friends of Waterbury Reservoir, said he understands the rationale behind adding the remote sites to the reservation system, but he sees some drawbacks, particularly for local residents who frequent the parks. Booking in advance will lock campers into dates. If sites are claimed, it might be difficult for local residents to decide on a nice day to head off to camp overnight. “It takes spontaneity out of it,” he said. It might be nice, Chittenden suggested, if parks officials consider setting aside a few dates of the season for local campers only.

Still, Chittenden, who lives on the shoreline of the reservoir in Waterbury Center, said steps are needed to address the popularity of the reservoir and the parklands surrounding it. Recent improvements at boat launch sites have made it easier to accommodate users. “But is it getting overused?” Chittenden asks. “That’s a question the state’s got to start addressing.” 

To make a reservation for a remote campsite at Waterbury Reservoir, visit online at vtstateparks.com or call the reservation center at (888) 409-7579. According to the website, reservations must be made at least one day ahead of arrival. The system will make dates available in blocks, one month at a time. For example, May dates are available now. Dates for June will be open for reservations on June 1. Reservations will be possible to book through Oct. 24 for a fee of $8 per site. No camping fees will be collected in 2021.