An announcement was finally made in 1942 that a reservoir was to be built, but reality hit in 1947, when the timber cutters came to town.

Over several years, the natural springs, tributaries, and other water sources filled in where Oakland Mills once stood to create the reservoir.

The North Branch of the Patapsco River is the primary tributary that feeds the reservoir.

Prohibited activities include camping, fires, swimming and alcohol consumption.

The trails around the reservoir consist of unpaved fire access roads, which are generally kept clear, and many miles of single track.