Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Waterbury Reservoir Wildlife Management Area (WMA) surrounds the Waterbury Reservoir, a 880-acre impoundment on the Little River in Washington County, Vermont. This protected area covers over 2,100 acres of mixed hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and open water, providing habitat for an array of wildlife including black bears, white-tailed deer, moose, and numerous bird species such as loons and bald eagles. The reservoir itself was created in the 1930s as part of flood control efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The surrounding WMA is managed by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department primarily for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy activities including trout and bass fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Trails vary from easy lakeside strolls to more rugged forest paths, allowing visitors to explore the natural scenery and seasonal changes. Winter access opens opportunities for snowmobiling and ice fishing when conditions permit. No major developed campgrounds exist within the WMA, but several primitive sites and state nearby campgrounds offer accommodation. The area appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking both solitude and engaging wildlife encounters amid Vermont’s northern hardwood forests and scenic water vistas. It is also a key location for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. The Waterbury Reservoir WMA provides a balance of habitat protection with public access to water- and land-based outdoor activities, playing a vital role in the region’s environmental stewardship and recreational offerings.
