Lake Characteristics
Townsend Lake is a small, quiet lake being only 97 acres and 8 feet deep. Many recreational activities can be done in and around the lake. Perch can be caught in the waters while boating on non-motorized vehicles. At the public boat launch on the south side of the lake, people can be found swimming and soaking up the sun.
In the Area
Townsend Lake sits in the Municipality of West Grey, within the former township of Glenelg. No matter where you explore in West Grey, nature is always close, thanks to the rolling hills and scattered small lakes found throughout the region. Many even compare the landscape to Canada’s Laurentians.
Despite its natural seclusion, Townsend Lake is just a short drive from Markdale, Durham, and downtown Owen Sound. The nearby Saugeen Municipal Airport, jointly owned by several local municipalities including West Grey, connects the community to Ontario’s provincial airport network. It serves both recreational and commercial traffic with reliable, modern service.
At the lake’s southern end, along County Road 12, you'll find Townsend Lake Golf Course. This 9-hole course features a fully licensed, covered patio with stunning lake views. To the west, Glen Rodin County Forest 18 offers a mix of conifer plantations and native hardwoods. A 1.6 km groomed snowmobile trail maintained by a local club runs through the forest. The area is also popular with hikers and bikers who enjoy the scenic, well-marked trails.
History
Glenelg formed in 1840, named either after the Scottish town of Glenelg or Lord Glenelg, the colonial secretary during Lord Grey’s administration. Townsend Lake took its name from Thomas Townsend.
Early settlers established homes along several roads that crossed the township, where the government offered free land grants. Many immigrants came from Ireland and the Scottish Highlands. Local mills sparked the growth of the first communities in Glenelg Township.
By the late 19th century, Glenelg was a patchwork of family farms, small villages, general stores, post offices, and muddy, often impassable roads. Even today, the area invites you to picture a simpler time, a place to slow down, relax, and recharge.
Interesting Facts
The first log schoolhouse at Townsend Lake stood on the southeast corner of Lot 3, Concession 13, along North Durham Road. After a fire destroyed the building, the school moved to a new site. In 1880, a large stone school went up on Lot 6, Concession 12, on the south side of the lake; a beautiful setting for learning.
Bad weather and blocked roads often forced school closures, but students still made lasting memories. One morning, a boy discovered a large turtle on his way to class. The children took turns riding it until the school bell rang.
Map of Townsend Lake