Lake Garrison

If you’ve got kids who want to swim somewhere that isn’t a crowded municipal pool, Lake Garrison is worth the trip. The swimming area is shallow enough that little ones can actually play without parents hovering in panic mode, and the lifeguards seem to genuinely pay attention. Pack food — there are BBQ grills to rent, plenty of picnic tables, and enough shade trees that you won’t be melting by noon. Restrooms, parking, ADA access — it’s got the basics covered better than a lot of parks around here. Honestly, it’s one of those spots locals keep coming back to all summer long.