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. 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 Ledges Overlook Trail offers stunning views of the Green Mountains along its 1.7 mile loop, with Townshend Lake Nature Area a short drive north up Route 30 offering access to the West River Trail. Three large picnic shelters are available, each equipped with electrical hookups to better accommodate your events, and they are surrounded by many individual picnic tables with charcoal grills for smaller groups to enjoy. 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. The recreation area sits in the West River Valley behind the Townshend Dam on the shores of Townshend Lake. The picnic area offers many large trees for shade along with other sun-basked open areas. The Townshend Lake Nature Area is located 2 miles north of Townshend Dam on Vermont Route 30, near West Townshend. The historic Scott Covered Bridge is a half mile south of Townshend Dam on the same route.