The name “Wasgamuwa” is based on the words “Walas Gamuwa”, with Walasa or Walaha denoting a sloth bear in Sinhala and Gamuwa denoting wood. The park was so named because it once housed a significant population of Sri Lankan sloth bears. Although it is not always possible to see them, these endangered creatures still live there today. The park is an exciting place to spot some unusual bird species as it borders the Mahawelia and Amban rivers and is almost surrounded by waterways. For example, Wasgamuwa is home to the endangered Red-faced Malkoha and Yellow-fronted Barbudo. The park has a great diversity of vegetation, with more than 150 different species. Its historical importance is also demonstrated by the presence of the remains of the Dathota, Malagamuwa, and Wilmitiya irrigation ponds, as well as the Kalinga Yoda Ela canal built by Parakramabahu I.