Woahink Lake
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.
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.
The lake is popular for a variety of activities, including fishing. Species include large mouth bass, rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, yellow perch, and others. The part of the state park on the east side of the highway near Woahink Lake has boat ramps, a roped-off swimming area, group tent camps, picnic areas, and a meeting hall.