Our Lakes
Honker Lake Overview
Honker Lake is a shallow, wildlife focused lake near the Woodlands Nature Station area, and it is one of the best places in Land Between the Lakes to slow down and watch what the landscape is doing. The lake is about 180 acres and was originally built in the 1930s for waterfowl management. Over time, it has also supported wildlife reintroductions including beaver, osprey, Canada geese, and otters.
For visitors, Honker is less about covering ground quickly and more about taking it in. You can experience it on foot along the Honker Lake Trail, a 4.5 mile loop that follows the shoreline and passes through a mix of woods and wet areas, with regular views across the water.
Honker Lake also ties into LBL’s paddling options, with a designated Honker Lake Water Trail that offers a short, scenic way to explore the lake from the water during open periods.
This photo is courtesy of Autumn Crawford
Quick Facts
- Shallow lake of about 180 acres
- Built in the 1930s for waterfowl management
- Known for wildlife viewing near the Nature Station area
- Honker Lake Trail is a 4.5 mile loop
- Includes a designated Honker Lake Water Trail
Good to Know
- A strong spot for birds, including osprey and waterfowl
- Trail access is one of the main ways to experience the lake
- Closed to fishing and paddling Nov. 1 – Mar. 15
- Open all year for hiking and wildlife viewing
Planning Notes
- Plan 2 to 2.5 hours for the full trail loop
- Early morning and late day are often best for wildlife activity
- Check alerts and refuge notices before heading out
Lakes in lbl
What to Expect at Honker Lake
Most visits to Honker Lake center on hiking, wildlife viewing, or a short paddle. The 4.5 mile loop trail is a steady walk that typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, with frequent openings along the shoreline that make it easy to pause and look for birds, beaver activity, or movement on the water.
Honker is also used as a seasonal wildlife refuge, which is part of why it can be such a strong viewing spot, especially in cooler months when waterfowl and eagles are more active in the region. While the trail around Honker is open year-round, paddling and fishing are prohibited November 1 through March 15 each year.
