Buttermilk Falls
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Visit Buttermilk Falls near Ludlow, Vermont. See seasonal photos, confirmed public-access information, caretaker contact details and swimming cautions.
Swimming restriction
Vermont River Conservancy confirms public access and swimming, with a drowning-risk warning. Keep dogs leashed. Public access does not establish safe water conditions; follow posted restrictions and do not jump or dive from rocks.
Official sources checked:
Location
Map & Directions
A closer look
Photos of Buttermilk Falls
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Buttermilk Falls near Ludlow
This Vermont destination is on Branch Brook, not the similarly named state park in New York. Vermont River Conservancy confirms public access and identifies Camp Plymouth State Park as caretaker. For site questions, call 802-228-2025.
Getting there
Follow the directions below to Buttermilk Falls Road. Our former pin represented Ludlow town rather than verified parking, so it has been removed. Follow local signs at arrival and do not block the road.
A waterfall visit, not a guaranteed swim
Vermont Tourism describes a half-mile approach and warns that the falls pose a drowning risk. Do not jump or dive, enter strong currents, or use the cascade as a natural massage. Keep children close and have a land-based alternative if conditions are unsuitable.
Plan ahead
VRC lists no cell service and requires dogs to be leashed. Save directions before arrival, bring water and take your waste home. The gallery shows different seasons; it does not establish today's water level, water quality or access conditions.
Getting There
From central Ludlow, follow Route 100 north, turn left onto Route 103 and look for Buttermilk Falls Road on the right about 1.5 miles farther along. Follow that road to its end and obey parking signs. VRC describes the falls beside the former Route 103 alignment. Use its official directions rather than a town-center map pin.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
VRC confirms public access and identifies Camp Plymouth State Park as caretaker. Contact 802-228-2025 for site questions. The old map pin was a Ludlow town geocode and has been withheld. No verified parking coordinate is currently provided.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Vermont River Conservancy confirms public access and swimming, with a drowning-risk warning. Keep dogs leashed. Public access does not establish safe water conditions; follow posted restrictions and do not jump or dive from rocks. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Falls
Is Buttermilk Falls in Vermont open to public access?
Vermont River Conservancy confirms public access for activities including swimming. Check posted restrictions and current conditions; this is not a live opening-status report.
Who can answer questions about the site?
VRC lists Camp Plymouth State Park as caretaker. Call 802-228-2025 for site questions.
Are dogs allowed?
VRC says dogs are allowed on leash. Keep them under control and pack out waste.
Is rock jumping recommended?
No. Do not jump or dive from rocks. Water depth and submerged hazards cannot be reliably judged from a photo or a previous visit.
Highlights
Unique Features
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Waterfalls pose a drowning risk
- Avoid strong flow, keep away from waterfall lips and do not jump or dive
- Supervise children closely, wear a life jacket and do not rely on mobile reception
- Leave the water if conditions worsen
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
The site is owned by Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation, with an easement held by Vermont River Conservancy.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Photograph waterfalls from stable ground away from edges. Seasonal gallery photos do not show current conditions.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Keep dogs leashed and pack out waste. Respect posted boundaries and use established access paths.
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At a Glance
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Not at site
Nearby Attractions
- Okemo Mountain Resort - Resort
- Ludlow, Vermont - Town
- Rutland, Vermont - Town
- Calvin Coolidge State Forest - State Forest
- Quechee Gorge - Natural Feature
- Coolidge State Park - State Park
- Green Mountain National Forest - National Forest
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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