Our Story
The Story Behind Eagle Lake
The Main House – Once Known as “The Bunker”
Eagle Lake’s rich history is as intriguing as its breathtaking beauty. For much of its past, the estate lacked an ofcial name and was simply referred to by locals as “The Bunker.” This nickname stemmed from a remarkable construction project in the late 1970s, led by a bold and visionary man. He carved out a hillside overlooking the 6-acre lake to create an underground fortress like no other.
Spanning 12,000 square feet over two stories, the structure was built with thousands of tons of concrete. Every wall—both interior and exterior—was crafted with extraordinary thickness, ranging from one to two feet, and topped with 4 feet of overburden for protection. A layer of foam insulation ensured the concrete walls maintained a steady year-round temperature between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The south side of the building, facing the lake, featured oor-toceiling glass, while unnished steel louvers were intended to shield the windows from potential intruders.
The estate, sprawling over 25 acres, included a 6-acre lake, a walled courtyard with an escape tunnel, school buses with barred windows, a radio tower, a greenhouse, dog kennels, and even a shooting range. The bunker itself boasted cutting-edge (for its time) security features such as skyward-facing motion detectors and a 1970s-era IBM mainframe computer. The owner’s plans included a grand estate home on a hill across the lake, which was never realized due to his untimely death.
For nearly a decade after his passing, the property fell into disrepair. The once-impressive bunker was stripped of its contents, leaving only a small electrical panel and outdated wiring. The lake lled with silt, the grounds were neglected, and vagrants left behind mounds of debris. What had been a promising estate became a forgotten blemish in the peaceful township of Chestereld, NJ.
Vision Realized
A Diamond in the Rough
Eventually, a small “For Sale by Owner” sign caught the attention of a dreamer with an eye for potential. Fueled by a vision, he convinced his wife to take a leap of faith. With minimal resources and no ability to secure a bank loan, they made an agreement with the seller, and the estate became their home.
Over the years, this bright-eyed dreamer and his family poured their hearts into transforming the property. Initially, it became the base for their edgling environmental remediation and supply company. But after 18 years, with the business sold and a passion for landscaping calling, the dreamer returned to his original vision: to turn the estate into a sanctuary where nature and beauty harmonize.
The lake was restored, a pristine white sand beach with a dock and Tiki hut replaced the debris, and an acre of paved pathways and driveways replaced muddy ruts. Expansive perennial gardens now surround the grounds, adding color and vibrancy to every corner. Through determination and love, the property was transformed into a true gem—a slice of heaven in the heart of New Jersey
Majestic Inspiration
The Name – Eagle Lake
The estate’s name is inspired by its most majestic visitors: bald eagles. These magnicent birds are often seen gracing the lake, particularly during the mornings in May. Their strength, beauty, and grace embody everything the estate represents—a place of natural splendor and tranquil elegance.
Every sighting of an eagle is a cause for celebration. Guests pause to marvel at their presence, and it’s these moments that highlight the magic of Eagle Lake—a lakeside retreat that reects the resilience, vision, and wonder of its story.
Welcome to Eagle Lake, where history meets nature, and beauty thrives in every detail.
Plan Your Visit Today
Discover why The Estate at Eagle Lake is one of New Jersey’s top-rated wedding venues. Schedule a tour to experience our stunning property rsthand and start planning your dream wedding.
Contact us today to check available dates and request our comprehensive pricing list. Let us help you create the outdoor wedding you’ve always imagined, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of your family and friends.