• Woahink Lake is one of the deepest natural coastal lakes in Oregon
• Features large open space with picnic tables, boat ramp, and a roped-off swimming area
Located a few miles south of Florence, the 820-acre Woahink Lake is the largest of the three coastal freshwater lakes within the boundary of Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park. One of the deepest in Oregon, over 74 feet (23 meters) deep, Woahink Lake is a cryptodepression lake, extending 36 feet (11 meters) below sea level.
Like Cleawox Lake, Woahink Lake was formed during the Pleistocene Epoch in the ancient delta of Siltcoos River. Because of melting glaciers, sea level rose and coastal streams became sluggish. Slow-moving streams weren't strong enough to overcome impounded water and sedimentary rocks. During the extended period of time, the sediments were abraded into the sand which, in turn, formed dunes.
About 85 percent of the Woahink Lake shoreline is privately owned and only the northwestern side of the lake is situated within Jessie C. Honeyman Memorial State Park. If you travel from Florence, turn left (east) from Highway 101 onto Canary Road, cross the bridge, and near the bridge on the right, you will find a boat ramp. This spot is a favorite for scuba divers.
About 300 feet further eastward there is West Woahink group reservable recreation meeting hall.
Go another 0.2 miles and turn right to the free East Woahink Lake Day-Use Area. This site features a large parking area, large open grassy space with picnic tables, boat ramp, and a nice roped-off swimming area on the left of the boat ramp. Isolated from the boat ramp, the shallow and warm spot with the sandy bottom is excellent for small children.
There are ample opportunities for anglers. The lake is home to many species including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, large and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and crappie.
Overnight camping is available in the largest state park campgrounds that offer over 350 campsites and 10 yurts (some of them are accessible and pet-friendly).
Video
Woahink Lake | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Flush toilets, drinking water, garbage service, gazebo, meeting hall, picnic sites, boat ramp
Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, scuba diving, fishing, and hiking
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Dogs: Must be on a leash
Accommodations: RV and tent campgrounds, yurts
Elevation: 43 ft (13 m)
Woahink Lake is located:
- 3.8 miles south of Florence
- 64 miles west of Eugene
- 130 miles southwest of Salem
- 175 miles southwest of Portland.
Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: Natural lake
Water quality: Transparent, slightly salty
Current: None
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Sand
Water T° (summer): Warm
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Woahink Lake
From Florence,
- Drive 3.8 miles south to the Honeyman State Park turnoff between milepost 193 and 194
- Turn left onto Canary Road and continue to the West Woahink Lake or East Woahink Lake Day-Use Areas on the right.