The picturesque surroundings of the lake are a popular recreational area for the residents of Smiltene and visitors to the city.
There are various sports fields, swimming spots, as well as a car and go-kart track.
Initially, the lake was called Kalnezers because the Middle Lake was located downstream. The waters of the lake powered a waterwheel, which was connected to a lifting mechanism made of iron.
Due to the large iron structure, the lake came to be known as Ēmurs. When the owner of the ironworks went bankrupt, it was taken over by an Estonian named Tepfers.
Thus, the lake bears the name of its last ironworks owner, Tepfers. Nowadays, the lake is recognized as Teperis.