Long ago this lake was just a marshy area with a few ponds, but they dredged it out to a depth of about 15 feet. This makes Nokomis a good sailing lake because, though small, just about every part of the lake besides, the small bit separated the cedar bridge, is free of weeds and shoals. This contrasts favorably to Bde Maka Ska and Harriet, both of which have several patches of lake weed think enough to foul keels and rudders. Traffic at the launch is lower than the other lakes as well, especially Bde Maka Ska. There are a lot of paddle boards, canoes, and kayaks, so any vessel must keep a careful lookout. The water is murky but usually warms up pretty well in the summer. Sand castle offers tasty food and drinks in the summer months. In the winter, ice fishing and hockey happens out on the ice. There is, of course, a nice park around the entire lake, with walking and bike paths, 2 beaches, 2 fishing piers and a few playgrounds. Parking can be a bit tight, especially on the North side of the lake.