The park was first designated as a lake national park in 1977 and in 2010 was re-designated as a national park and placed under the authority of SNAP (National System of Protected Areas), the Uruguayan government's parks agency. In 2015, Laguna de Rocha was declared a Ramsar wetland of international importance.

7,200 hectares (about 1/3 of the park) is the surface area of the lagoon itself with the remaining 2/3 of the park being surrounding grasslands and coastal forest. A thin strip of sand separates the lagoon from the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean, but at high tide or during storms, channels open isolating the barrier as either an island or a peninsula. The barrier island provides scenic seascapes with coastal dunes where tall grasses wave.

The park is an important breeding and nesting area for aquatic birds. More than 200 species of birds can be seen in the park including flamingos and several types of heron as well as forest and grassland birds, like owls.

From Montevideo, buses depart frequently for Rocha. The trip takes about 3 hours. Taxis are available at the Rocha bus terminal and take just a few minutes to reach the lagoon.

From Montevideo, drive east on Ruta Interbalnearia (Ruta 5) for 3 hours to Rocha, then head south on Ruta 9 for about 20 km to the park entrance.

Camping is permitted in most of the park. No developed campsites are provided.