Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, Townshend Lake offers lots of outdoor recreation fun. From the third Saturday in May through the Sunday after Labor Day in September, Townshend Lake Recreation Area is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Families come to enjoy the extensive shaded picnic areas overlooking the swimming and play areas. Picnic tables, grills, horseshoe pits, volleyball set-ups, grassy play areas, and two modern restrooms are provided for the enjoyment of our visitors. Townshend Lake has a "carry in- carry out" trash policy. 

Below the picnic area, the long, sandy beach is great for sunbathing, and the swimming area is shallow enough for children yet deep enough for those wanting to swim laps. Pets are not allowed on the swimming beach. During the summer, Park Rangers are available to help visitors and to answer questions. During the winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

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.

Townshend Reservoir (108 acres) is a site for the Vermont LoonWatch annual survey. Birders are encouraged to volunteer as often and whenever they are able. See Join LoonWatch for details.