Overview

Townshend Lake is a flood control project operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, serving communities within the West River Valley, and those downstream. In addition to protection from floods, the lake provides many recreational opportunities, including picnicking, hiking, and fishing.

Facilities

Within the Townshend Lake Recreation Area, three large picnic shelters are available for reservation, each equipped with electrical hookups to better accommodate your events. Individual picnic sites can be found throughout the park, providing a resting place for those who wish to enjoy all that the park has to offer, including playgrounds, volleyball courts, horse shoe pits, scenic views, and hiking trails. Restrooms within the Day Use area provide flush toilets and potable water during the recreation season.

Natural Features

Recreation

Townshend Lake offers ample recreation opportunities. A boat ramp provides access for canoeing, kayaking and small motor boats (10hp or less). The lake is stocked once a year with Rainbow Trout for the enjoyment of anglers. The three group shelters are surrounded by many individual picnic tables with charcoal grills for smaller groups to enjoy. The Ledges Overlook Trail offers stunning views of the Green Mountains along the 1.7 mile loop, with Townshend Lake Nature Area a short drive north up Route 30 offering access to the West River Trail.

Nearby Attractions

• The Townshend Lake Nature Area is located 2 miles north of Townshend Dam on Vermont Route 30, near West Townshend, VT.

• The Historic Scott Covered Bridge is located 1/2 mile south of Townshend Dam, on Vermont Route 30.

Contact Info

Important Notices

• Townshend Lake is a flood control project. Occasional retention of floodwaters may inundate portions of the recreation area and access road. Any shelter reservations impacted by flood-related closures will be fully refunded.

• Any special event, gathering, or activity that may affect the atmosphere of the park must receive prior approval from park staff.

• No dumpsters are available at Townshend Lake. Pack it in, pack it out.

• Pets must remain on a leash no longer than 6 ft.

• Pets are not allowed on the swimming beach.

• Campfires are not permitted.

Available Activities

• Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
• Hiking - Hiking
• Biking - Biking
• Birding - Birding
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Cross Country Skiing - Cross Country Skiing
• Fishing - Fishing
• Kayaking - Kayaking
• Sledding - Sledding
• Snowmobile - Snowmobile
• Snowmobile Trails - Snowmobile Trails
• Water Access - Water Access
• Picnicking - Picnicking
• Day Use Area - Day Use Area

Directions

Townshend Lake is located 19 miles north of Brattleboro, Vermont, on Vermont Route 30.

Contact Information

Phone: 802-365-7703

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip