[3] Originally known as the Oil Creek Reservoir, Cuba Lake was created in 1858 to help maintain water levels on the Genesee Valley Canal.

[6] The reservoir remained at its high-water mark until 1889, when the water level was lowered by 7.5 feet (2.3 m) to relieve fears raised by the Johnstown Flood that had occurred that year.

[9] By 1919, the state had sold nearly 114 acres (0.46 km2) of land not needed for recreation, and had enacted or planned improvements relating to the reservation's roads and trees.

The Cuba Lake District legally rents the land from New York State, and in turn collects lease fees from residents.

It also works to organize maintenance activities on the reservoir and dam, publicize safety bulletins, and develop and enforce regulations.

[13] Public access to the lake is permitted through a state-managed boat launch located near Rawson Creek's inlet on West Shore Road.