OutReserve

Townshend Lake Recreation Area

Covered picnic tables on the abutment of Townshend Dam
Townshend Lake Recreation Area
Townshend Lake Nature Area
Nature Area
Bald Eagle

Featured amenities

Pet Friendly
Pet Friendly
Playground
Playground

About Townshend Lake Recreation Area

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.

Campground Amenities

  • Beach Access
    Beach Access
  • Pet Friendly
    Pet Friendly
  • Lake Access
    Lake Access
  • Playground
    Playground

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently closed - Opens on May 16

Reviews (4)

What Guests Are Saying

Visitors had a wonderful experience at Townshend Lake Recreation Area and expressed a desire to return next year. The positive feedback highlights enjoyable activities and a pleasant atmosphere. Overall, it’s a well-liked destination for recreation.

Review Summary

4.0
4 reviews
5
75.0%
3
4
0.0%
0
3
0.0%
0
2
0.0%
0
1
25.0%
1

Nancy d

July 20, 2025

5

WE had a great time , Hope to do it again next year

Cody L

July 2, 2022

1

The lake had been entirely drained with no notice. Very disappointing. Unguarded heavy machinery and seemingly no staff present to let anyone know what was going on. No one answered the phones prior to our visit and my refund request has been sitting for a week now.

Clay T

September 27, 2021

5

I was so nice to bring my leased dog!

Jonathan H

January 17, 2020

5

I have a family reunion every couple of years and Townsend is the perfect place. Easy to find, right off Rt 30. I rent one of the pavilions for the day, plenty of seating, 2 large grills, electric outlets for crock pots. Playground for the kids, love it. Make sure you bring trash cans or bags (take in, take out) and ice, town is not that far but expensive.

Location Townshend Lake Recreation Area

Address:
Townshend Lake Office
Townshend, VT, 05353
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 43.0589 / -72.7065

Elevation: 168 feet

Policies & Rules

Category About
General

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.

General

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

General

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

General

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

General

Pets are not allowed on the swimming beach.

General

Campfires are not permitted.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations