The Flood Control Act approved July 3, 1958 authorized Dierks Dam for construction.

The project was designed by the Tulsa District of the United States Army Corps of Engineers and constructed under their supervision.

The purposes of Dierks Lake are: flood control on the Saline River, recreation, water supply, and fish and wildlife conservation.

The picnic shelters are lighted and equipped with barbecue grills and electricity.

These shelters are located at Jefferson Ridge, Horseshoe Bend, and Dierks Overlook.