When you think of a lake in New Jersey, what comes to mind? Lake Hopatcong? Atsion? Round Valley Reservoir? It’s probably not Lake Carnegie, but this unique spot has a fascinating history.

Lake Carnegie

Wikipedia/Cholmes75 Located in Princeton, this stunning lake is actually privately owned by Princeton University. Unlike most private lakes, however, the lake is open to the public for fishing (catch and release), boating and ice skating.

Rowing On The Lake

TripAdvisor/Richard C. The lake was constructed in 1906 by damming the Millstone River. It was created specifically for the Princeton rowing team by businessman and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie.

The Boathouse

Wikipedia/Jerrye & Roy Klotz In a series of very fortunate events, a Princeton graduate (Howard Russell Butler) was asked to paint a portrait of Andrew Carnegie. Mr. Butler somehow convinced Mr. Carnegie to make a generous donation towards the development of a private lake for the use of Princeton Crew.

Trails

TripAdvisor/Richard C. Still used today by the university, this is also a popular spot for picnicking and hiking. Visitors can also rent their own canoe or kayak from Princeton Canoe & Kayak Rental with locations on Canal Road and Alexander Street.

Sunrise

Flickr/Khurt WIlliams The lake is nearly 4 miles long and 800 feet wide. It even offers several islands that house hundreds of plant and animal species.

Sunset

Flickr/Daniel McGurk In the heart of one of New Jersey’s most charming towns, this lake is truly a sight to see. Get active and walk the pathways surrounding the lake or get some upper body action in a kayak. Even better perhaps? Do nothing at all and take in the beautiful sunrises and sunsets from the shores.

Though swimming is not permitted, the scenic spot is a meeting place for students, locals, and anyone who wants to enjoy its beauty. There is no cost to access the lake and it hosts numerous species of birds and wildlife for visitors to (respectfully) enjoy. For other New Jersey lakes to enjoy, check out my previous article: There’s Something Magical About These 12 New Jersey Lakes In The Summer.

Wikipedia/Cholmes75

Located in Princeton, this stunning lake is actually privately owned by Princeton University. Unlike most private lakes, however, the lake is open to the public for fishing (catch and release), boating and ice skating.

TripAdvisor/Richard C.

The lake was constructed in 1906 by damming the Millstone River. It was created specifically for the Princeton rowing team by businessman and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie.

Wikipedia/Jerrye & Roy Klotz

In a series of very fortunate events, a Princeton graduate (Howard Russell Butler) was asked to paint a portrait of Andrew Carnegie. Mr. Butler somehow convinced Mr. Carnegie to make a generous donation towards the development of a private lake for the use of Princeton Crew.

Still used today by the university, this is also a popular spot for picnicking and hiking. Visitors can also rent their own canoe or kayak from Princeton Canoe & Kayak Rental with locations on Canal Road and Alexander Street.

Flickr/Khurt WIlliams

The lake is nearly 4 miles long and 800 feet wide. It even offers several islands that house hundreds of plant and animal species.

Flickr/Daniel McGurk

In the heart of one of New Jersey’s most charming towns, this lake is truly a sight to see. Get active and walk the pathways surrounding the lake or get some upper body action in a kayak. Even better perhaps? Do nothing at all and take in the beautiful sunrises and sunsets from the shores.

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