The park in which the lake is situated covers over 100 hectares (250 acres) and includes extensive recreational facilities.

The ruins of the 1850s era Cashin's flour mill stand at the northern end of the dam wall.

There are over 10 kilometres of shared trails, a community room and meeting facilities, a monster playground,[2] toilets, barbecues and a picnic area.

[4] In 1853 surveyor James Blackburn saw the site as a location for a water catchment though the Yan Yean Reservoir was eventually built instead.

Local residents often walk, run or cycle around the lake for fitness reasons.