[6] Sheldon Lake was established by the federal government in 1943 through the construction of a dam on its tributary, Carpenters Bayou.

[8] Before its settlement, the lake and surrounding area were composed of coastal prairies and marshlands.

Fish present in Sheldon Lake include catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish.

[10][11][12] There is a high level of vegetation in the lake, with several species present, including cypress trees, water lilies, arrowhead, pondweed, and coontail.

Nuisance species such as hydrilla, water hyacinth, alligator weed and giant salvinia are also present.

There are two miles of flat trails, boardwalks, and the 82 ft. high John Jacob Observation Tower which provides higher elevation viewing.

This colony is growing and now hosts over 2,200 heron, egret, roseate spoonbill, anhinga, Neotropic cormorant and ibis nests each year.

Some winter specialties include ash-throated and vermilion flycatchers, fish crow, Le Conte's and grasshopper sparrows.

Visit Friends of Sheldon Lake SP for an updated checklist and tips for birding SLSP.