Where To Swim
Swimming areas at the two state parks are marked by orange flags. All vessels, including manually propelled craft, are prohibited from entering these designated public swimming areas.
There are two year-round 5 mph/ No Wake Zones, which, with the protection by the 200 foot law and right-of-way laws, provide areas for quiet users. Please try to stay in these quiet use zones. Be mindful of motorized boat users, especially when not in quiet user zones, around boat ramps and Elephant Rock.
Elephant Rock is a popular area for all users but the landscape becomes very narrow at this part of the reservoir. This means the channel for motorized boats is reduced significantly. Please use extreme caution while swimming in this area.
PFD ( Personal Flotation Device )
There are no lifeguards patrolling Waterbury Reservoir, therefore non-strong swimmers are strongly encouraged to wear a flotation device for added safety. Always swim within your comfort and skill level, avoid swimming alone, and stay close to the shore to reduce risks.
Long Distance Swimming
There are no lifeguards patrolling Waterbury Reservoir, therefore solo swims are not recommended. In most cases, you can not see below you or around you and it can be difficult to swim in neat lines. Breathing on your left and right side every three to five strokes allows you to watch out for motorized boats, paddlers and wildlife. You must be aware of what’s going on around you, and listen for motor sounds. Take your head out of the water and look straight ahead periodically to make sure you’re not headed toward something potentially dangerous, or that you’re not drifting too far from shore and out of the quiet user zone.
As well as being hard for swimmers to see what's going on around them it can be difficult for the motorized boaters to see swimmers. A swim buoy is an excellent tool that allows swimmers a way to ensure they stay safer while swimming. They provide visibility for other users on the reservoir, a safety mechanism for floating when tired, and even carrying important things like water, snacks or your wallet.
