Quechee State Park, located in Quechee, Vermont, is a beloved outdoor destination known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Situated along the Ottauquechee River, the park offers visitors a chance to explore the remarkable Quechee Gorge, a deep and narrow ravine formed by ancient glacial activity.

The history of Quechee State Park is intertwined with the legacy of the A. G. Dewey Company, a prominent wool processing enterprise of the 19th century. Mr. Dewey established his woolen mill in the Quechee area around 1869, and it became a thriving center of economic activity, employing as many as 500 people, many of whom resided in the mill village.

The mill harnessed the power of the river's falls and mill pond to process wool, and it was known for producing high-quality satinets and shoddy (reworked used wool). Several inventions and product innovations, such as Sheep’s Grey and Dewey’s Gray, originated at this mill and gained recognition for their excellence throughout the country. Some of the materials produced were even used for making uniforms for baseball teams like the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, as well as blankets for the U.S. Army and Navy.

Despite its success, the mill eventually closed its doors in 1952 and relocated to Enfield, New Hampshire. Over the following years, most of the mill houses and structures were demolished, and remnants of the mill and dam can still be seen near the head of the gorge.

Quechee State Park's history began to take shape shortly after the mill's closure when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated a flood control plan in the area, which included the construction of the North Hartland Dam. The park's development started in earnest in the early 1960s with the creation of campgrounds and picnic areas.

In 1965, the State of Vermont leased the park from the Army Corps and entrusted its management and operations to the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation.

Today, Quechee State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping within the park's scenic surroundings. The park is particularly famous for its picturesque bridge, which provides breathtaking views of the Quechee Gorge and has become a favorite spot for photographers.

The park also features a museum and visitor center where visitors can delve into the area's history and geology. It's an excellent place to gain insights into the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

For those interested in camping, Quechee State Park provides several options, including six cabins, 45 tent/RV sites, and seven lean-to sites. Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water, coin-operated hot showers, and a sanitary dump station. While there are no hookups available, most sites can accommodate large RVs. The campground also offers a spacious field and play area for families to enjoy.

Quechee State Park provides educational and recreational programs led by park interpreters. These interpreters are dedicated to helping visitors learn more about the park's natural and cultural history through fun and interactive activities. Activities may include night hikes, nature crafts, campfire programs, and amphibian explorations.

For day visitors, there are various parking options available. Parking in the Quechee State Park lot costs $5 for adults, $3 for children aged 4-14, and is free for children aged 3 and under. Additionally, there are numerous free parking spots located at the Quechee Gorge Visitor Center, just east of the gorge, and on the west side of the gorge, next to the Quechee Gorge Bridge.

Quechee State Park is a testament to the region's rich history and natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the outdoors while learning about the area's fascinating past. Whether you're looking for a day of relaxation or a camping adventure, Quechee State Park has something to offer everyone who appreciates the beauty of the Vermont landscape.