The name "whiteshell" is in reference to the Meegis or cowry shells used by Ojibwa peoples in their ceremonies and teachings, especially the Midewiwin, and as recorded in their birch bark scrolls.

Quartz, copper, and other minerals were used to make prehistoric arrow heads, tools, scrapers, spears, and artwork.

The geography and geology of the area consists of Canadian Shield granite rock ridges, cliffs, boreal forest, bogs, and only one main road through the park.

It is a very wild and pristine area with many deer, bear, wolves, coyotes, bald eagles, fox, cougars, lynx, and other wildlife.

More than 650 Master Angler awards have been made for documented trophy catches in the Whiteshell River including Black crappie, Brown trout (introduced),[2] Bullhead, Goldeye, Lake sturgeon, Mooneye, Northern pike, Rainbow trout (introduced),[2] Rock bass, Sauger, Smallmouth bass, Walleye, and Yellow perch.