Summer, Simplified.
Skip the Shore Traffic. Embrace the Lake!
Welcome to Our Lake!
Life here is uncomplicated.
Located outside of Philadelphia in Monroeville, NJ, is Lake Garrison. What started as a cranberry bog is now your summer destination, your family playground. A cherished, peaceful little lake where your summer traditions begin, creating memories that last a lifetime.
The Story Behind the Smiles
It all started with cranberries and a whole lot of love.
Lake Garrison was created in the 1930s and has been a gathering spot ever since. Some of today’s visitors first came here as kids. Now they bring their children and grandchildren, keeping their own traditions alive.
The Cedar Secret
You may notice our water has a beautiful tea-like color. This is called “Cedar Water.” It comes naturally from the surrounding cedar trees and other vegetation, and it is completely safe for swimming.
The color might look unusual, but it does not mean the water is dirty. In fact, Lake Garrison is tested weekly to ensure it meets the highest safety standards for swimming and recreation.
So dive in, relax, and enjoy our one-of-a-kind, natural lake!
Garrison Glimpse
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![Sand with a large rounded rock and a small pile of green seaweed on top, illuminated by sunlight.]()
Built by Hand
When you're on a paddleboat, make sure to find the 5 original log cabins. They aren't just for show. They were hand-built by John Garrison himself during the 1930s. They stand today as a testament to the "simple summer" spirit that started it all.
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![A painted turtle resting on a rock in a body of water.]()
The Resident Sunbathers
Keep your eyes on the floating logs! Our resident Painted Turtles are the lake’s professional relaxers. You’ll often spot them stacked up in the afternoon sun, soaking up the rays just as much as our guests do.
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![A large heron standing next to a weathered wooden post with green foliage in the background.]()
Statue or Real?
If you see a tall, blue-gray bird standing perfectly still in the reeds or on a dock, you’ve met one of our Great Blue Herons. These flying "dinosaurs of the lake" are masters of patience, often seen fishing near the shoreline during the quiet early morning hours.
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![A bald eagle with outstretched wings flying low over water.]()
The High-Flyers
Look up! Because we are nestled in fertile wetlands, it’s not uncommon to spot Bald Eagles or Ospreys circling high above the lake. They love our clean water just as much as we do, mostly because it makes it easier to spot their lunch.
