Zack Woods Pond - Hyde Park (23 acres)

About this Location

Zack Woods Pond in Green River Reservoir State Park covers 23 acres and is surrounded by a forested wetland complex that provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. The pond is popular for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. 

Zack Woods Pond has a unique natural island, which provides an ideal nesting location for Common Loons. Nesting loons are sensitive to human interference; for this reason, the island is closed to public access. 

Zack Woods Pond (23 acres) is a site for the Vermont LoonWatch annual survey. Birders are encouraged to volunteer as often and whenever they are able. See Join LoonWatch for details.

About Green River Reservoir State Park

See all hotspots at Green River Reservoir State Park

Green River Reservoir became a state park in March 1999 when 5,503 acres were purchased from the Morrisville Water and Light Department. This is not your typical Vermont State Park – Green River Reservoir provides camping and paddling experiences in a remote setting. All campsites can only be reached by paddling to them – some are a 1 to 2-mile paddle from the launch site.

The park will remain in its wild and undeveloped condition, with low-impact, compatible recreational use allowed on and around the Reservoir. Management activities will be only those necessary to maintain the property’s character, protect the environment and critical resources, demonstrate sustainable forest and wildlife management, control excessive recreational use, and ensure high-quality outdoor experiences for visitors.

The 653-acre Reservoir includes about 19 miles of shoreline, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped shorelines in Vermont. Access to the park is in the southern part of the Reservoir off of Green River Dam Road. The Reservoir is designated as a “quiet” lake under Vermont’s “Use of Public Waters Rules.” Boats powered by electric motors up to 5 mph and human-powered watercraft (canoes, kayaks, etc.) are allowed.

There are 27 remote campsites at various locations around the Reservoir. Camping is allowed only at designated campsites and can only be reached by boat. Each remote site has a maximum site occupancy based on the characteristics of the site. There are two designated group campsites that can accommodate up to 12 people each. Some campsites are closed each season and rehabilitated due to overuse through the years. There is also an ADA-accessible boardwalk that leads from the parking area to an accessible boat launch. The best way to protect all sites is by using a portable stove instead of a campfire for cooking. Please carry out what you carry in and leave no trace of your visit.

Notable Trails

The pond is accessible by a 1.5-mile hiking trail that starts from the Zack Woods Road parking area. The trail is moderately difficult and crosses several streams and wet areas.

Features

  • Entrance fee

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

Content from Green River Reservoir State Park Official Website

Last updated October 14, 2023