The Land & The River
Rock River is a tributary of the West River and runs its entire course within Windham County, Vermont. Originating in the Green Mountain National Forest in Dover, it joins the West River in Newfane. Rock River is rich in natural and human history. Like many other river environments, it faces environmental challenges that deserve our attention and best efforts at preserving its natural beauty and protecting its varied uses for future generations.
Protecting a Natural Resource
The land around Rock River provides essential habitat to a wide range of plants and animals. The soil along the banks of the river is ideal for the growth of native trees such as eastern hemlock, northern red oak, and yellow birch. The underbrush, full of mountain laurel, wild azalea and other wildflowers, offers provisions for local wildlife all through the year. Bear, bobcat, deer, foxes, and many types of birds, fish and other aquatic life depend on a clean water environment. A longtime Rock River visitor is engaged in a photographic inventory of plant life along the river, with a goal of cataloging valuable native species and identifying any invasive or non-native species for remediation. Frequent water quality testing throughout the warmer months by the Southeastern Vermont Watershed Alliance and, more recently, the Connecticut River Conservancy has consistently found Rock River to be among the cleanest tributaries of the Connecticut River in southern Vermont.
The Human Experience
The human experience of the river echoes and supplements the rich natural history of the river. Swimmers, sunbathers, and even kayakers prize the cool, clean water and warm rocks for summertime recreation. The river provides sanctuary and solace to varied local groups of users. From a town path starting at the end of Williamsville Road in Newfane, visitors first encounter a family beach at a known as "Indian Love Call", which has been enjoyed by generations of children and teens. Farther from the public roadways, a separate, clothing optional area known as "Third Beach" welcomes a mixed crowd. A the terminus of the trails, a sandy bank known as "Fifth Beach" is a traditional gathering place for gay and bisexual men and their friends.
Preservation of the Land
Rock River Preservation, Inc. formed as a nonprofit organization in 2005 for the purpose of preserving the publicly-accessible land along Rock River. In 2007, Rock River Preservation purchased 4.5 acres stretching 1.2 miles along the river. This parcel includes land leading up to the Jersey barriers on Williamsville Road, providing an alternative entry if current access to the town path off Depot Road becomes impassable. The parcel includes the “Family Beach” and what many refer to as the “Third Beach” at a bend in the river. The land was purchased from the Connecticut River Watershed Council (now the Connecticut River Conservancy) with funds raised through small donations from river users.
See the map of Rock River Preserve to familiarize yourself with the land.
2018 Land Purchase
In late November 2018, Rock River Preservation purchased 21 acres of property along Rock River from longtime friend and neighbor Robert Swartz. This historic transaction was made possible by donations from over 200 individuals, some of whom have been River visitors for decades. The purchase did not involve changes to access or parking, nor did it create a campground. It’s only about preserving the River experience as it has been for generations. All Rock River Preservation-owned land is managed in accordance with conservation plans that have now been updated to reflect the expanded holdings.
Thank you to all the individuals and couples whose donations made this possible!
See the map of Rock River Preserve to familiarize yourself with the land.
2018 Land Purchase
In late November 2018, Rock River Preservation purchased 21 acres of property along Rock River from longtime friend and neighbor Robert Swartz. This historic transaction was made possible by donations from over 200 individuals, some of whom have been River visitors for decades. The purchase did not involve changes to access or parking, nor did it create a campground. It’s only about preserving the River experience as it has been for generations. All Rock River Preservation-owned land is managed in accordance with conservation plans that have now been updated to reflect the expanded holdings.
Thank you to all the individuals and couples whose donations made this possible!