Rhode Island's Charming Inland Lake
Why Rent On Pascoag Reservoir - Echo Lake
Pascoag Reservoir — locally known as Echo Lake for the carry of sound across its calm surface — is a 325-acre man-made lake in Burrillville and Glocester in northwestern Providence County, Rhode Island, about 25 miles northwest of Providence. Created in 1860 by mill owners as a textile-industry power source, the reservoir stretches more than two miles with about five miles of shoreline lined primarily with private residences. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management maintains a public boat ramp at the Echo Lake Fishing Area off Maroney Road. Swimming is not permitted at the reservoir; if swimming is the priority, the Rhode Island coast is about 45 minutes east, and Pulaski Memorial State Park in Burrillville has a pond with swim access closer to hand.
On the water
Fishing is the primary draw. The lake holds largemouth bass, RIDEM-stocked rainbow trout, chain pickerel, and panfish. During the summer season from the Saturday before Memorial Day through the day after Labor Day, no boats with motors exceeding 10 horsepower may be launched or retrieved from the public ramp — a restriction that keeps the lake peaceful during peak season and makes it well-suited to kayaks and canoes on most summer mornings. The lake’s two-mile length and flat character work for paddling, though afternoon winds across the open surface can build significantly; Rhode Island Blueways specifically notes this as a caution for paddlers. Ice fishing is practiced in winter when conditions allow, though safe ice is variable year to year in Rhode Island — confirm thickness locally before venturing out. A Rhode Island fishing licence is required for anglers 15 and older; check the RI DEM Freshwater Fisheries website for current stocking schedules and regulations.
What to do near Pascoag Reservoir
Chepachet village, 2.3 miles east on Route 44, is one of the most intact colonial-era villages in Rhode Island, with a general store, antique shops, and period architecture that rewards an afternoon visit. The broader Blackstone River Valley, a short drive east, carries one of New England’s richest industrial heritage stories with excellent cycling and walking trails through the National Heritage Corridor. One local detail worth knowing from the water: lakeshore residents have installed a miniature Stonehenge and a small Statue of Liberty among their properties over the years — children find them genuinely entertaining from a kayak. George Washington State Campground in the surrounding Glocester woodlands provides a nearby camping option.
When to go and where to stay
Spring, April through June, is the strongest fishing season for stocked trout and for bass moving into shallower water. Early morning visits from May through September are ideal before afternoon winds develop. Fall, September through October, brings quieter conditions and a second good bass bite. Vacation rental inventory in rural Burrillville and Glocester is limited — plan well ahead and consider properties in the Chepachet area as well. Browse Lake.com for pet-friendly vacation homes in the northwestern Rhode Island area within a short drive of the lake and the historic village.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.88
- Max depth (ft)
- 21
- Elevation (ft)
- 439.63
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 10.38
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Pascoag Reservoir - Echo Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Pascoag Reservoir - Echo Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in Pascoag Reservoir – Echo Lake. The reservoir is primarily used for fishing and boating, with specific regulations in place for these activities.
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Pascoag Reservoir – Echo Lake is a popular destination because it offers good fishing with various species like bass, trout, and pickerel. The reservoir also allows boating, including kayaks, canoes, and power boats with a 10 horsepower limit during certain seasons. Its large size and excellent water quality make it appealing for recreational activities.
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There is a 10 horsepower engine limit for boats on Pascoag Reservoir. This restriction applies to boats launched or retrieved from the boat ramp, especially between the Saturday before Memorial Day and the day after Labor Day. Boats docked at private homes are not subject to this limit.
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There is no public beach at Pascoag Reservoir – Echo Lake. The area is primarily used for boating and paddling, with a state boat ramp and parking lot, but it does not include a public beach. The focus is on water access for boats and personal watercraft rather than swimming areas.
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The towns near Pascoag Reservoir – Echo Lake include Foster, Rhode Island, and North Smithfield, Rhode Island. Pascoag Reservoir is located in the town of Burrillville, with Pascoag being one of its villages. It is also close to other nearby towns like Smithfield and Greenville in Rhode Island.
