Originally the site of Gray's Quarry, a gravel and sand pit, Indigo Lake came under the responsibilities of the National Park Service on December 27, 1974, with the creation of the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area. The pit was later filled with water by park service personnel to create what was subsequently called "Indigo Lake", which remains in place sustained by a constant supply of water from several natural springs in the immediate area. It is situated entirely within the boundaries of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

It is one of only two places in the park closed to swimming. Although protected as part of the national park, the lake is a popular spot for local fishing. In addition, the lake, which normally freezes over in the colder months of the year, is used by the Akron Fire Department to practice under-ice rescue techniques each winter It is accessible by car from Riverview road, on foot via the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and by rail via a flag stop station nearby at 41°11′39″N 81°34′45″W, part of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

The lake is 722 feet (220 meters) above sea level and is 89 feet at the deepest point

This isolated lake was once a quarry and there is still old mining machines at the bottom of the lake. Also, the area surrounding the lake has been used for thousands of years by various Native American tribes, including the Erie and Hopewell. Could it be that they love this area so much that they haven’t found a reason to leave, even in death?!?

"This secluded lake apparently is not as lonely as it appears. A few years back, I felt not so alone along the shore late one night, and on a few recent investigations, there seemed to be some activity still remaining there. The area surrounding the lake has been used for thousands of years by various Native American tribes, including the Erie and Hopewell. it is possible that this beautiful region was so well liked by them that they haven't yet found reason enough to leave, even in death."