The lake, which lies between the Island Beskids, and the Wieliczka Foothills, was built to regulate the Raba river between the towns of Dobczyce and Myślenice.

In the following years, 70 hectares of forest were cut down, and villages, schools, plants and cemeteries were moved from the valley.

With the completion of the dam and the lake, the problem of frequent flooding of the Raba valley was solved.

Lake Dobczyce provides water for the city of Kraków, it also has a hydroelectric power plant.

Due to a picturesque location, the lake is very popular among residents of the city, who take advantage of walking and bicycle trails.