Ah, summer in New Jersey! We think it’s the perfect time to head down to the Jersey Shore – and sometimes, it seems like everyone else in the tri-state area does as well. What to do when you just can’t stand the crowds today? Head to one of New Jersey’s best off-the-beaten-path water destinations. The perfect lake vacation in New Jersey can be found in the tiny community of Monroeville, in a quiet area of South Jersey. This recreation area used to be a cranberry bog, but in 1935 it was reinvented by a local business owner into an accessible, reasonably priced vacation destination. With boating, fishing, and a private beach, this is a great alternative to the busiest towns of the shore – and it’s especially beautiful during the summer months.

Rural Garrison Lake is a vacation destination that most people might have never heard of - but it's not to be missed.
D M/Google Local
Looking at this pristine beach, you'd never know it used to be a cranberry bog in the early 20th century!
Lake Garrison
Today, it's been transformed into a great recreation spot that's usually filled with families during the summer month.
Colleen Brand/Google Local

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You pay less and get more than you usually do at the most crowded beaches!
Colleen Brand/Google Local
Boats are available for renting, and those with a fishing license are able to fish the lake from aboard a special boat. Inquire with the lake for details on availability.
Lake Garrison
Lake Garrison is also a great picnic destination, and you'll never be pressed for room at this large wooded area.
Lake Garrison
As the sun goes down, Lake Garrison is even more beautiful - the perfect conclusion to a fun day on the water in one of New Jersey's true hidden gems.
Cynthia Rogan de Ramirez/Google Local

Have you visited Lake Garrison in Monroeville? Let us know if you enjoyed your off-the-beaten-path lake vacation in New Jersey in the comments section! You can visit the Lake Garrison website for all the details about the 2023 season and pricing, and the Lake Garrison Facebook page for the latest updates. This is an area of New Jersey brimming with hidden-gem attractions, so why not take this local road trip?

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Featured Addresses
Lake Garrison, 849 Buck Rd, Monroeville, NJ 08343, USA