Herdsman Lake supports a wide diversity of wildlife species, serving as an important bird breeding ground and summer refuge for migratory birds, over 100 species of birds have been recorded at Herdsman Lake of which a third breed at the site. The Herdsman Lake Wildlife Centre and open parklands attract many people to the park.

The Whadjuk people, who are recognised as the traditional owners, call the area Ngurgenboro and used it as a food source.