Built in 1885, the original old Kensico Dam was built as an additional source of water for New York City. However, the earth and gravel dam that formed a small lake was still not enough for the ever-increasing population of New York City. A reservoir was needed and construction of a new masonry dam in 1915 replaced the old dam, and expanded the water supply by bringing water from the Catskill Mountains over a distance of more than 100 miles.
 
Today, the reservoir offers a trout-stocked lake for fishing as well as boating. There is also an historic dam featuring a park with a playground and nature trails.