In an exciting development for outdoors and wine enthusiasts alike, the Burrillville Zoning Board has given the thumbs up for the proposed Town Line Farm Winery & Campground, a 20-site campground straddling the town line between Burrillville and Glocester.
Robert Lohr, a local farm operator and the brain behind this innovative project presented his proposal to the zoning board, which was unanimously approved. The venture is now all set to step into the next phase of planning, with meticulously detailed blueprints expected to be presented to the Planning Board in the upcoming months.
Lohr’s vision is to create an “unplugged” campground designed for nature enthusiasts who are 21 years and older. A unique feature of this project will be its operational timeline, providing services seven days a week from May through October. The proposed campground will be strategically nestled around an existing scenic pond, providing campers an immersive nature experience.
Luxury will meet functionality at the campground with plans for a four-unit bathhouse for camper comfort. Significantly, four of these sites will be located in the neighboring town of Glocester. Also, to prioritize the safety of campers, especially during high-risk periods, Lohr has taken a precautionary stance by prohibiting campfires during burn bans.
Meanwhile, the proposed winery is set to find a home in an existing barn, north of the current driveway. This will be complemented by parking facilities arranged in a nearby field. The ambitious winery plan involves planting vines across three fields, with wine-tasting and sales operations envisaged within the rustic charm of the barn.
Both the campground and winery will be developed on two adjoining parcels spanning 42.61 acres. The property can be accessed through an 800-foot paved driveway extending from South Main Street in Pascoag.
Lohr, who resides in a farmhouse on the property that has been in his family for three generations, aims to build the campground in carefully planned phases. The initial phase will see the establishment of the first ten sites along with a two-unit bathhouse. Leveraging his experience in fire safety, Lohr also plans to ensure the highest safety standards by strictly enforcing all fire bans.
While the project has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response, concerns were voiced by a neighboring homeowner over potential trespassing, smoke, and fire safety issues. In response, Lohr agreed to put up trail and boundary signage, as well as to remove or store any unused farming equipment on the lots.
A special use permit, unanimously granted by the Zoning Board, has provided the required legal permissions to the campground. This permit comes with a proviso—it will expire in a year unless Lohr actively engages in the project’s construction.
In its entirety, the Town Line Farm Winery & Campground presents a unique and exciting venture that combines the joy of the great outdoors with the allure of winemaking. As the project steps into its next phase, it holds a promise to redefine outdoor recreation and wine tourism in the region.
The winery will offer its guests an unparalleled experience and takes outdoor hospitality to a whole new level.