There is still some debate over whether Stoneman Lake is the remains of a volcanic crater or whether it fills a deep, collapsed sinkhole. The location of this naturally occurring body of water at the bottom of a large bowl-shaped valley and its nearly circular shape actually support both conclusions. The fact that faults in underlying rock layers provide the only way for water to leave the lake, adds weight to the sinkhole conclusion.

The lake’s recreational value, on the other hand, is something that is easily agreed upon. This medium-sized body of water, surrounded by Gambel oak and ponderosa pine-covered basalt slopes is an excellent place to bird watch during the yearly waterfowl migrations, or all summer long for songbirds.

There is a gravel parking lot and boat ramp at a day-use area on the lake’s northern shore. Picnic tables at shaded sites nearby provide a good place to spend an afternoon.