Created in 1938,[1] this 8,400-acre (34 km2) lake is located 120 miles (190 km) south of St. Louis, Missouri.

The reservoir lies mostly in Wayne County, but its southernmost reaches (near the dam) extend into northern Butler County, both in Missouri.

Both the dam and reservoir are owned and operated for the public by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

Its primary purpose is flood control, although it has been developed as a recreational area with ample opportunities to boat, fish, swim or camp.

The fish population of the lake include white bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.