The park contains the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota, which forms the headwaters of the Des Moines River. Expect great fishing for walleye, northern, crappie, and bullheads. Loon Island, a 45-acre bird sanctuary, is accessible on foot via a causeway and includes an interpretive trail. Visit the Koch Cabin and monument memorializing pioneer settlers. The park includes a swimming beach, boat launch, and campgrounds.
Boat rentals are available.
Long before European and American settlers appeared in the area, native people were in the Lake Shetek area in pursuit of bison. In the mid 1830s, European and American explorers such as Catlin, Nicollet, Prescot, and Fremont explored the area associated with Lake Shetek. The first white settlement occurred in 1856. Although its population varied, it probably numbered no more than 40 people at any one time. The settlement was located from Lake Fremont to Beauty Lake along the eastern side of Lake Shetek.