In the 1860s, Daniel B. Funk, an early settler of the surrounding Sanpete Valley, had the idea of a summer and weekend resort area. At that time, the valley was owned by a small group of Sanpitch Indians led by Chief Arapeen. Daniel B. Funk bargained with the chief and obtained a land patent from the government. He and his family then set about the arduous task of building a dam and diverting part of Sixmile Creek to fill the lake. The lake quickly became a well-known pleasure resort, now called Palisade.

Summer recreation includes camping, fishing, swimming, electric motor and non-motorized boating, golfing, and hiking. Off-highway vehicle trails are accessible from the park.

The 18-hole golf course has some of the best putting greens in the state. A PGA professional provides a full range of services and supplies at the newly remodeled pro shop.

Opened to the public as a state park in 1962.
Park Elevation – 5,800 feet