Townshend Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
At the foothills of the Green Mountains in Vermont is Townshend Lake. The lake is a reservoir that was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk management, conservation, and recreation. The Corps of Engineers also manages and maintains Townshend Lake Recreation Area, which is a day-use destination for many visitors. The peak season starts in late May and runs to early September each year.
Visitors can enjoy many activities in the recreation area. A sandy swimming beach welcomes kids and adults of all ages for swimming, wading, and sunbathing. Many picnic tables and group shelters are perfect for enjoying a picnic with groups large and small. Hiking and boating are other summertime recreational activities. During the winter, visitors can explore the snow-covered park on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
For guests looking to stay overnight, there isn’t a campground at Townshend Lake Recreation Area. There is camping nearby at Townshend Lake State Park. The state park has 30 campsites, including five that can fit small RVs or trailers. The campground is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day. While pets are not allowed at Townshend Lake Recreation Area, they are permitted in most areas of the state park.
RV Rentals in Townshend Lake
Transportation
Driving
Townshend Lake Recreation Area can easily be accessed from route 30 near Townshend, Vermont. The recreation area is most often visited during the peak season, from May to September. Navigating the roads shouldn’t be a challenge during that time of year. If planning to visit during the off-season, snow and ice are common. You’ll want to check the road and weather conditions before your trip.
There isn’t a campground at Townshend Lake Recreation Area. Just over six miles away, Townshend State Park has a campground with 30 campsites, five of which can fit an RV. The campground is open seasonally from May to October only. The last two miles of the drive to the state park is on a narrow, dirt road. Use extra caution.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Townshend Lake
Campsites in Townshend Lake
Reservations camping
Townshend State Park
There is no camping at Townshend Lake State Recreation Area. However, Townshend State Park is just seven miles away. The state park is surrounded by heavy forest, which provides quite a bit of shade. The park was built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Many of the CCC structures, including the tent platforms, remain intact.
The state park has a small campground with 30 campsites, including five that can accommodate RVs up to 20 feet. All campsites are primitive with no hookups, but there are water faucets at the campground. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate for cooking. The campground has restrooms and coin-operated showers. Most areas of the state park are pet-friendly. If bringing your pet, keep them on a leash at all times.
Townshend State Park is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Due to the limited number of sites, reservations are encouraged. The park does not set aside any campsites for walk-in guests. The state park has many recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking and fishing.
Seasonal activities in Townshend Lake
In-Season
Swimming
The swimming area is welcoming for both kids and adults. The sandy beach provides shallow entry into the gradually deepening water. The swimming area is deep enough to swim, but still shallow enough for non-swimmers to enjoy.
It is encouraged to wear life jackets in the water and always keep an eye on kids and others in your group. The picnic area is just above the beach, and restrooms are also nearby.
Boating
Small motorboats, kayaks, and canoes often travel on the lake. The recreation area does have a boat ramp for those planning to boat. Boating makes for a leisurely afternoon out on the water, whether you’re looking to fish or simply explore the shoreline.
The lake does have a ten horsepower limit for motorboats. Boaters should follow all regulations and ensure they wear life jackets.
Picnicking
Picnicking is a popular pastime during a visit to Townshend Lake. Many picnic sites are in the shade provided by the thick forest. The picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For large group gatherings, three picnic shelters can be reserved. The Davis and Burrington shelters can accommodate groups of up to 60 people. Stratton is the largest shelter and can fit groups as large as 100 guests. Grills are at each shelter. Amenities such as a playground and restrooms are close by the picnic areas.
Off-Season
Trails
Explore one of the area’s hiking trails while visiting the lake. The 1.7-mile Ledges Overlook Trail is a loop that rewards hikers with views of the Green Mountains.
Just a short drive away at Townshend State Park, there are additional hiking trails. Bald Mountain Trail takes visitors along a brook and past waterfalls. The trail is about a three-mile round trip and is considered moderate to difficult with several steep sections.
Wildlife Viewing
A variety of different animals may be seen during a visit to Townshend Lake. Bird boxes were installed in the area and are now where swallows and other types of birds nest. Osprey are often sighted at the lake, and bald eagles are seen on occasion soaring in the sky or up high in a tree.
Many reptiles and amphibians can be seen near the lake and wetland areas. Some animals may hibernate during the winter months, but others such as deer remain active.
Winter Sports
During the wintertime, Townshend Lake Recreation Area still provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy many activities. Winter visitors should bring along their cross-country skis, snowshoes, and snowmobiles. After snow blankets the park, head down the trails to take in the snow-covered landscape. You may spot animal tracks from deer or even a moose.
