The dam, constructed in the early 1960s by U.S. Soil Conservation Service and the Commonwealth, provides both flood control and recreational facilities. Fishing consist primarily of warm water game fish including bass, muskellunge, walleye, pickerel, catfish, yellow perch and sunfish.
Trout also inhabit the lake and are stocked in the fall for the ice fishing season.
Motorized boats must display a current registration. During the summer season the boat launch is open 24 hours a day for the convenience of fishermen. Modern bathrooms are available April through October, portable toilets are used during cold weather. A food and refreshment concession is located nearby. A special regulations area allowing only bow and arrow, and flintlock muzzleloader, is located near the park office.