The lake is contained within Shenton Park, a parkland in the suburb of Shenton Park, bounded by Lake Avenue, Excelsior Street, Evans Street and Herbert Road.

As well as the lakes themselves, the park area includes open grassed space, barbecues and playground equipment and a masonry building and public toilet in the south-west corner.

The lake is generally full during the winter rainy season, but can dry up completely during the summer months.

A variety of birdlife (including the famous black swan) can be found around the lake, as well as a number of aquatic creatures such as turtles.

In 1877, James Dyson sold his swamp to George Shenton's son.