Rushford Lake dates to the late 1920s, when Rochester Gas and Electric built it. Ownership changed hands in 1981, passing to the Rushford Lake Recreational District, a public body set up that same year. Come winter, the water level drops by roughly 40 feet.
Fishing
Two spots along the north shore are open for fishing. Balcom Beach offers shore access along with an improved launch ramp for trailered boats, reached from Route 243 by way of Balcom Beach Road to Old State Road. The second sits on the north side of the Caneadea Dam, at the picnic area where Lake Road (formerly Dam Road) ends.
Swimming
Swimming centers on Rushford Lake Beach, at the corner of Rush Creek Road and County Road 49. There is a small sandy beach, a grassy lawn, and a swimming area of modest size. Rushford Lake Beach can be reached at 585-437-2017.
Physical characteristics
| Feature | Value |
| Elevation | 1,320 ft |
| Area | 585 acres |
| Shoreline length | 5.3 miles |
| Maximum depth | 115 ft |
| Towns | Rushford, Caneadea |