ANNOUNCEMENT:
The West River Trail which lies in the upstream impoundment area of Townshend Dam can contain flood debris at any given time. Park Rangers are working continually on keeping the trails open for recreation. Please use caution.
Severe flooding and constant sloughing of the steep riverbanks upstream of Townshend Lake has deposited large quantities of silt within the reservoir, impacting opportunities for water-based recreation, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
There is no longer a dedicated swimming area, Swim at your own risk.
Recreation Facilities/Activities
Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, Townshend Lake offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Families come to enjoy the extensive recreation areas, featuring shaded picnic areas, volleyball courts, grassy play areas, and hiking trails.
A boat ramp is available for those wishing to launch their watercraft (10 horsepower limit) and State laws regarding life jackets must be followed. Hunting and fishing are allowed throughout the reservoir in accordance with Federal and Vermont Fish and Wildlife laws and regulations.
During the winter, visitors can enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Reservations and Fees
Nothing says summer like a picnic. At Townshend Lake, picnickers can dine in shady woods or take advantage of our covered picnic shelters. Our shelters can be reserved, for a fee, for large gatherings such as family reunions or weddings. Grills are provided at the shelters, with playground equipment, horseshoe pits, and restrooms nearby.
Shelter Reservations
Nothing says summer like a picnic, and Townshend Lake offers multiple picnic facilities, perfect for hosting any large gathering. In addition to dispersed picnic tables and grills, three shelters are able to be reserved:
- Stratton Shelter (100-person occupancy) - $90.00/day
- Davis Shelter (60-person occupancy) - $70.00/day
- Burrington Shelter (60-person occupancy) - $70.00/day
Charcoal grills and electricity are provided at each shelter, with playgrounds and restrooms available nearby.
Reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.
Special Event Fees:
Approval and fees for special events vary, depending on the event. Please call the Park Manager at (978) 318-8915, for more information.
Need to Know
- Townshend Lake is a flood control project. Occasional retention of floodwaters may inundate portions of the recreation area and access road.
- Pets within the recreation area must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.
- No dumpsters are available at Townshend Lake. Pack it in, pack it out.
- No live bands are permitted.
Interpretive Programs
Ever wish a ranger would come to your school or organization and present a program of your choosing? Townshend Lake Park Rangers offer off-site programs on a variety of topics. Park staff can conduct group programs on or off- site year-round upon request and no charge.
Natural Resources
The Corps understands that there's more than one use for the land we manage. We also understand that humans are not the only ones that use this land, other residents include many vertebrates (mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish) and invertebrates (insects, spiders, crayfish, and other creatures). Corps biologists and rangers work closely with state and federal agencies to insure healthy fish and wildlife populations.
Corps personnel manage the land (1,010 acres) at Townshend Lake to maintain a diversity of fish and wildlife habitats. Many programs are used at Townshend Lake to benefit the native wildlife species. The installation of bird boxes has created nesting sites for tree swallows, black-capped chickadees, house wrens, wood ducks, and bluebirds. Forest stands are managed to maximize benefits to both trees and animals. The management practices of brush hogging and prescribed burning are used to maintain important open field habitats. Keep an eye peeled skyward for a sighting of a soaring bald eagle or osprey. Various fish, amphibians, reptiles, and other creatures also live here.
- Updated: September 23, 2025