Family-Friendly, Spacious Winnipesaukee Retreat with Stunning Views
House in Gilford, NH
10 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
About this house rental
This family-ready, classic cape on Lake Winnipesaukee’s Bear Island is a vacation home where you can “get away from it all” while still being close to the main land, grocery stores, and the Lakes Region’s best restaurants and activities.
Situated on a three-acre peninsula, Camp Chaos is accessible only by boat. The expansive living space consists of a main house and a two-story addition, open kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, outdoor shower, two sizable living spaces with TVs and lending libraries, a children’s library and play nook, two large fireplaces, and more.
Western-facing views means you can enjoy spectacular sunsets from the wrap-around deck and afternoon sun. The “Rusty Anchor” outdoor bar is cocktail hour ready and the large fire pit makes nightly S’mores a must.
The Camp Chaos peninsula is a short walk from Bear Island’s miles of walking trails and an easy 15-minute hike from St. John's on the Lake, a stone chapel that hosts pet-friendly services from Memorial through Labor Day. It’s also a quick boat ride and drive from beautiful downtown Meredith and a 15-minute boat ride from the Weirs Beach boardwalk.
Additional indoor perks include:
- A main house master bedroom with French doors that open onto the front deck and a spectacular view.
- A charming main house “bunk room” with one queen and two twin beds and lots of storage space.
- A second master bedroom (sleeps two) and additional bunk room with twin trundle beds and space to sleep four in the newly constructed Bunkhouse.
- A central kitchen with counter seating and all the equipment you’ll need to cook for a large group. The huge pantry, new refrigerator, and free-standing deep freezer mean you can stock-up and keep grocery runs to a minimum.
- Two Great Rooms (one in the main house and one in the addition)that are perfect for movie nights, board game tournaments, and lounging.
- Pack 'n Play crib
Outdoor amenities also include
A sprawling wrap-around, partially covered porch with classic Adirondack furniture, outdoor dining options, and phenomenal sunset views.
- A large grill and propane tanks.
- A sizable back deck with outdoor seating, an umbrella table, and open space that’ll keep sunbathers happy.
- Horseshoe pit and hammock.
- Covered outdoor bar with a sink, polished wood counters, and electrical outlets.
- U-Shaped dock that can fit three boats as well as plenty of deck chairs and inflatable toys.
*Please note that the property is professionally cleaned between guests and that summer 2020 cleaning protocols have been updated to reflect HomeAway/VRBO and CDC recommendations.
**Guests have the option of contactless check-ins and check-outs
Situated on a three-acre peninsula, Camp Chaos is accessible only by boat. The expansive living space consists of a main house and a two-story addition, open kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, outdoor shower, two sizable living spaces with TVs and lending libraries, a children’s library and play nook, two large fireplaces, and more.
Western-facing views means you can enjoy spectacular sunsets from the wrap-around deck and afternoon sun. The “Rusty Anchor” outdoor bar is cocktail hour ready and the large fire pit makes nightly S’mores a must.
The Camp Chaos peninsula is a short walk from Bear Island’s miles of walking trails and an easy 15-minute hike from St. John's on the Lake, a stone chapel that hosts pet-friendly services from Memorial through Labor Day. It’s also a quick boat ride and drive from beautiful downtown Meredith and a 15-minute boat ride from the Weirs Beach boardwalk.
Additional indoor perks include:
- A main house master bedroom with French doors that open onto the front deck and a spectacular view.
- A charming main house “bunk room” with one queen and two twin beds and lots of storage space.
- A second master bedroom (sleeps two) and additional bunk room with twin trundle beds and space to sleep four in the newly constructed Bunkhouse.
- A central kitchen with counter seating and all the equipment you’ll need to cook for a large group. The huge pantry, new refrigerator, and free-standing deep freezer mean you can stock-up and keep grocery runs to a minimum.
- Two Great Rooms (one in the main house and one in the addition)that are perfect for movie nights, board game tournaments, and lounging.
- Pack 'n Play crib
Outdoor amenities also include
A sprawling wrap-around, partially covered porch with classic Adirondack furniture, outdoor dining options, and phenomenal sunset views.
- A large grill and propane tanks.
- A sizable back deck with outdoor seating, an umbrella table, and open space that’ll keep sunbathers happy.
- Horseshoe pit and hammock.
- Covered outdoor bar with a sink, polished wood counters, and electrical outlets.
- U-Shaped dock that can fit three boats as well as plenty of deck chairs and inflatable toys.
*Please note that the property is professionally cleaned between guests and that summer 2020 cleaning protocols have been updated to reflect HomeAway/VRBO and CDC recommendations.
**Guests have the option of contactless check-ins and check-outs
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Family friendly
Map of Gilford, NH
RRRR
Reviews
5.0
Another great year. This is a very unique and serene property. Two houses give our kids and their guests plenty of space. Most of our time was spent out on the lake or on the large covered porch gazing at the water all around. Thanks to the host family!
4.0
Pros: Great location and privacy. Plenty of linens and towels. It was great to be able to bring both our dog and cat. Cattle landing is close and convenient.
Cons:We chose this property in large part because the description said it had air conditioning. The reality was that only the bedrooms had window units and barely kept up with cooling.
Beware the stairs in the bunkhouse, some are uneven and dangerous.
There weren’t enough chairs to accommodate indoor dining and seating.
The listing amenities could use updating.
As with all island properties, you must bring your drinking water and take home your trash.
5.0
Really enjoyed our stay on Bear Island. The owner was vrey prompt in addressing concerns or questions. The beds are comfortable, the kitchen is well stocked, and the front porch and views are amazing. I am hopeful to be back next year!
5.0
Our family of 5 stayed at Camp Chaos at the end of July. We have vacationed on Lake Winnie for 10 years and this was one of the best! The space was perfect for our family. The wrap around porch is perfect for lake relaxing and beautiful sunsets. The location on the lake is perfect, and the camp is exactly what you would want for a week of lake living. The house was clean and all the amenities we needed. The owners were very helpful and communicative. We would love to stay at Camp Chaos again in the future.
5.0
Perfect place for a family getaway at the lake. Lots of beds and all the amenities needed for an enjoyable stay.
5.0
Amazing houses, property, views, furnishings. Lots of room to spread out, large new dock with plenty of room for everyone. We always have a blast.
5.0
Perfect location with plenty of privacy and easy access (by boat) to all Lake Winni hot spots. The house had everything you need and more. They even supplied some firewood for evening campfires. Kids, dogs and parents all had a great time! Would certainly go back again!
5.0
As life-long lake people, we loved Camp Chaos. It's definitely a *camp* -- things aren't perfect, but that means you can breath a sign of relief and truly relax on vacation. Plenty of space, including different quiet sleeping spaces. Stunning sunsets and close to Cattle Landing (mainland) and all the Bear Island trails. Great communication from hosts, and super private location. Only downside for us was lack of a sandy beach, but nothing watershoes couldn't solve.
4.0
This is a charming cottage with a bonus bunkhouse. The only drawbacks were lots of daddy long legs (but no bugs!) and no AC.
5.0
Our third year at this property. Views, privacy, plenty of space for our grown children in the separate bunkhouse and a short trip to the mainland for supplies. Thanks again to the owners for our wonderful family vacation!
5.0
Amazing location with incredible sunsets!
Great week spent with family at Camp Chaos! We cannot wait for next year!
5.0
Wonderful and peaceful
Such a great place to disconnect. From the world yet so close to everything!
5.0
Great location close to trails and beautiful lake
We had a wonderful time on bear island at camp chaos. Rental was easy in and out. I wish I had read that trash is carry out and water needs to be carried in. Such is island living! Will be back.
5.0
Wonderful!
So good that we're already booked for next summer. Not sure that there's anything better that I can say.
5.0
Lovely lake house
Our family enjoyed staying at this house for a week. We loved the bunk house and putting our older children in there . Sitting out on the front porch having dinner every night was great. Enjoyed the fire pit too. The dock was great and kids spent time there jumping off of it! Check in and check out were very easy. Thank you for a lovely week! We will be sure to rent again next year!
5.0
What a spot!
Lovely all the way around: setting, furnishings, docking. Great kitchen for an island property. Our second year here and we will be back!
4.0
Beautiful island stay
Our family had a great time with lots of boating, fishing and floating in the lake. The property is amazing, 270 degree water views and in an ideal location on the lake. The house is indeed "campy" as it was built by owners and there are a number of things that need repair. But overall the house was quite spacious and the rustic aspects add to its appeal. All communications and preparation were wonderful.
4.0
Great Family Vacation at Camp Chaos
This was our first time staying on Bear Island and overall it was a great experience for our family. We enjoyed Camp Chaos' private location (only one house nearby and wouldn't know it's there), nice dock, plenty of porch / deck space, fire pit, and great hiking. Would have liked more space in some rooms to store clothes and only place to sit down for a family meal is on the front porch which was not a problem for us at all ... wind helped keep bugs at bay.
5.0
Graduation Trip
We stayed at this house for one week with a number of teenage children and have enjoyed every minute of our time there. It is definitely campy but very fun.
5.0
Great Location and Property
Had a full family with ages ranging from young children to grand-parents, and two golden retrievers, and everyone seemed to have a great time (especially the dogs). Location is central to all the main spots, yet island location provides some privacy. Kitchen had everything you may need for cooking, as well as a grill on the deck. Owner was very responsive and easy to deal with. Only thing I would change, if I could, would be to screen in the porch, and maybe add screens to the bunkhouse. It does get super buggy out there at night, and a lot end up getting inside if you're not smart about turning off the lights (ie… don't attract the bugs). But other than that the camp checked all the boxes for us.
4.0
Great Location, Lakefront and Views / sunsets
Location is on a Large Island, Very nice location. Property could use a few upgrades but overall very nice for pricing. beds in bunkhouse need upgrade. We had a great time and owners are nice to deal with. We would return.
5.0
Fantastic island stay
We loved our stay here. The cabin and bunkhouse were lovely and the location was just perfect.
5.0
Unbelievable getaway
Wonderful, relaxing, quaint, and perfectly located in a friendly cove.
5.0
Unique Private Island Peninsula
Our family truly enjoyed Camp Chaos. It was a wonderful private retreat yet in a great location to access groceries and parking. The home was charming and well cared for. The large covered outdoor porch had great lake views and was perfect for rainy days, puzzling, and meals. The dock provided some good fishing competitions. All the necessities were provided which made an island stay easy. The homeowner/property manager were very responsive. Thank you for sharing your retreat and we hope to come again!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Gilford?
The average price for a rental in Gilford is R 6,120 per night. This rental is R 8,774 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Family-Friendly, Spacious Winnipesaukee Retreat with Stunning Views. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Family-Friendly, Spacious Winnipesaukee Retreat with Stunning Views pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Family-Friendly, Spacious Winnipesaukee Retreat with Stunning Views?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and fireplace.
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