[2] The surrounding area and lake, then known as Laguna Puerca or Pig Lake, were purchased by the Greene family following their move from Maine to San Francisco in 1847.

[3] The lake was purchased by the City of San Francisco in the five years following the nearby Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove.

[3] The lake is fed by an underground spring, which also feeds nearby Lake Merced.

[3] It is surrounded by willows, tules, and aquatic plants.

[3] Migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway stop to feed, rest, or inhabit the surrounding area.