Woodcock Creek Lake

Authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1962, Woodcock Creek Lake is one of 16 flood damage-reduction projects in the Pittsburgh District. The project provides flood protection for the French Creek system. The flood prevention benefits provided by the project since completion are estimated to be approximately $38.4 million.

Placidly resting amidst gently rolling hills, Woodcock Creek Lake complements the tranquil rural countryside of central Crawford County. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to visit the project and exchange the hectic sights and sounds of the city for the serene vistas and relaxed atmosphere of Woodcock Creek Lake.

Visitors will discover that Woodcock's pleasant surroundings are an ideal setting for outdoor and recreational opportunities. Many exceptional facilities are also provided by the Corps of Engineers which will enhance a visit to the lake.

An access roadway that traverses the top of the dam provides visitors with a novel opportunity. Nearly a mile in length, fitness buffs can enjoy a scenic walk, jog or run along the top of the dam.

The Bossard Nature Trail is designated as a National Recreation Trail in the National Trails System. Nature enthusiasts have the opportunity to make exciting discoveries on their own or to walk the self-guided nature trail and perhaps stop to observe nature from one of two observation blinds located along the trail. Approximately 1,000 feet of the trail’s pathway is paved and easily accessible.

An overlook on the north shore provides visitors with a scenic area to take photographs or just to relax and enjoy the day. A picnic area located downstream of the dam also offers a beautiful setting for picnicking, fishing, playground fun and relaxation.

On the south shore, Woodcock Lake Park offers a developed swim beach, four reservable shelters and a six-lane boat launch. Shelter reservations and payments can be made through recreation.gov

A 20HP limit is in effect for power boats at Woodcock Creek Lake. Boaters are reminded to have U.S. Coast Guard-approved boating safety devices with them when on project waters and to ensure compliance with all PA Fish and Boat Commission boating regulations. 

Woodcock Creek, above and below the dam, as well as the lake, provides exceptionally good fishing opportunities. The creek is a favored trout stream and muskie, bass, walleye and panfish await anglers in the calm waters of the lake.

Pennsylvania State Game Lands 435 is found at the eastern end of the project. This provides a public hunting area, as well as excellent wildlife habitat.

Camping is currently unavailable at Woodcock Lake Park. We will provide updates as they become available.

Facilities & Activities

Closed
Drinking Water
 
Accessible Restroom
 
 
 
Trails

 

Picnic Areas
 
Playground
 
 
 
Accessible Restroom
Drinking Water
 
Picnic Areas
 
 
 
Restrooms
Drinking Water
 
Picnic Areas
 
 
 
Restrooms
 
Trails
 
 
 
Picnic shelter - contact Crawford County Conservation District at 814-763-5269 for reservations.
  • Contact
    Woodcock Creek Lake Office:
    (814) 763-4422/4477
  • Location
    Woodcock Creek Lake
    22079 State Highway 198
    Saegertown, PA 16433-6213
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Woodcock Creek Lake News

Corps waives day use fees at recreation areas in observance of Veterans Day
11/2/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District announced today it will waive day-use fees at recreation areas at its 16 reservoirs in observance of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
Corps announces Notice of Availability for leasing/developing land at Woodcock Lake Park
8/22/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District announced a Notice of Availability (NOA) for Woodcock Lake Park, the leasing is available for viewing on Woodcock Creek Lake’s website at.
Woodcock Creek Lake to Host 50th Anniversary Celebration
7/6/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District will host a semicentennial celebration commemorating the completed construction of Woodcock Creek Dam, July 14.

Firearm / Firework Policy

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers DOES NOT honor State-issued concealed weapon permits, prohibits loaded concealed weapons, the possession of loaded firearms or ammunition on lands and waters administered by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers per Title 36, CFR 327.13{a).

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