It was designed as a multi-purpose project for power generation, flood control, irrigation, and fishery.

In 1982, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) started construction of the dam by diverting the Klong Saeng River.

A resettlement of animals took place by boat and helicopter to prevent them from drowning or starving on new created islands.

The national park area is inhabited by a range of mammals such as tigers, elephants, tapirs and many monkey species.

Less commonly seen reptiles include the king cobra, reticulated python, and flying lizards.