Waterford Township & Independence Township – Oakland County

Woodhull Lake is a 135-acre all-sports lake located across both Waterford Township and Independence Township in central Oakland County, Michigan. With a maximum depth of 56 feet and a direct connection to Lake Oakland, Woodhull Lake is a key part of the Clinton River watershed and is known for its clear water, diverse fish species, and versatile recreational opportunities. Its position within a multi-lake river system adds unique ecological and recreational characteristics not found on many similarly sized lakes.

Woodhull Lake at a Glance

Lake Lifestyle

Because Woodhull Lake is an all-sports lake with no public launch, residents enjoy a blend of active recreation and quieter weekday conditions. Its connection to Lake Oakland provides extended boating opportunities, while its position in the upper Clinton River chain adds ecological interest and scenic value.

Typical lake activities include:

• High-speed boating (skiing, tubing, wakeboarding)
• Pontoon cruising
• Paddleboarding and kayaking along calmer coves
• Swimming in sandy-bottom areas
• Fishing for warmwater species
• Wildlife viewing along the Eagle Lake and river inlets

Its hydrological layout — with multiple inflows and a river outflow — also helps maintain water movement and clarity throughout the season.

Hydrology & Connected Lakes

Woodhull Lake is one of the most interconnected lakes in Oakland County:

Upstream connections:

• Van Norman Lake — Located approximately ¾ mile upstream. The Clinton River widens into a slow-flowing channel between Van Norman and Woodhull.
• Townsend Lake — A 26-acre lake feeding into Van Norman and the Clinton River system.
• Eagle Lake — A 19-acre, 20-foot deep lake that flows into Woodhull along the southeast shoreline.

Downstream connection:

• Lake Oakland — Woodhull Lake flows directly into Lake Oakland through the Clinton River.
  • Both lakes share a legally established water level of 957.43 feet.

This setup positions Woodhull Lake as a central node in the upper Clinton River lake system.

Namesake

Woodhull Lake was named after John Chatfield Hedges Woodhull (1804–1877), who, along with his wife Rachel Woodhull (1808–1872), owned much of the northern shoreline property in Section 35 of Independence Township. Their holdings and local prominence led the lake to bear the Woodhull family name.

Fish & Wildlife

Woodhull Lake supports a wide range of warmwater fish species, including:

• Bluegill
• Pumpkinseed
• Northern pike
• Rock bass
• Black crappie
• Largemouth bass
• Brown bullhead
• Bowfin
• Carp

Its connection to upstream and downstream lakes increases habitat diversity and fish mobility.

Real Estate Around Woodhull Lake

Woodhull Lake contains a mix of:

• Mid-century lake cottages
• Updated year-round homes
• Homes with mature trees and natural views
• Properties with sandy frontage
• Homes in quiet cove locations

What continues to attract buyers:

• A quieter, private lake setting
• More approachable pricing than all-sports lakes
• Consistent water clarity
• Convenient location near schools, parks, and the M-59 corridor
• Limited shoreline development gives the lake a natural feel

→ Browse current homes for sale on or near Woodhull Lake: [HERE]

Schools Serving Woodhull Lake

The lake area is primarily served by Waterford School District
(https://www.niche.com/k12/d/waterford-school-district-mi/)

Some sections along the Independence Township side may fall into Clarkston-area boundaries depending on parcel lines.

Things to Do On & Around Woodhull Lake

On the water:

• Water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Swimming and sunning on docks
• Fishing from boats or shoreline
• Scenic cruises through the Clinton River channel areas

Nearby recreation:

• Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
• Waterford Oaks County Park
• Dodge State Park (Cass Lake)
• Clinton River canoeing/kayaking routes
• Downtown Clarkston restaurants and events

The lake’s central location makes both outdoor recreation and suburban amenities easily accessible.

Credit: https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/parks-trails/waterford-oaks

Pros & Cons

Final Thoughts

Woodhull Lake is a dynamic, interconnected all-sports lake that offers residents a blend of recreational versatility, natural beauty, and community-focused shoreline living. With access to Lake Oakland, multiple tributary lakes, and the Clinton River system, it stands out as one of the more hydrologically interesting and recreationally valuable inland lakes in Oakland County. For buyers looking for private-access boating, good water depth, and a strong lake community, Woodhull Lake is a standout choice.

Resources & Helpful Links

• Michigan DNR – Oakland County Lake Maps
  https://www.michigan.gov/dnr

• EGLE – Water Quality & Inland Lakes
  https://www.michigan.gov/egle

• Townships:
  Waterford – https://www.waterfordmi.gov
  Independence – https://www.indtwp.com

• Hydrology & watershed information
  https://www.michigan.gov/egle/water/watersheds

Frequently Asked Questions – Woodhull Lake

Is Woodhull Lake an all-sports lake?

Yes — high-speed boating is permitted.

How big is Woodhull Lake?

135 acres.

How deep is Woodhull Lake?

Up to 56 feet.

Does Woodhull Lake have public access?

No — it is exclusively private.

Which lakes connect to Woodhull Lake?

Upstream: Van Norman, Townsend, Eagle Lake
Downstream: Lake Oakland

Is the lake good for swimming?

Yes — it contains sandy-bottom areas suitable for swimming.

What school district serves the lake?

Primarily Waterford School District.

What kinds of fish live in Woodhull Lake?

Bass, pike, bluegill, pumpkinseed, rock bass, black crappie, bullhead, carp, bowfin.

Does Woodhull Lake freeze in winter?

Typically yes, depending on weather conditions.

Are short-term rentals allowed?

Waterford and Independence townships regulate STRs; rules vary and should be reviewed.

Does the Clinton River flow through the lake?

Yes — it enters on the west and exits on the north.

Is Woodhull Lake busy?

Moderately — private access reduces overall traffic.