Entire home

Little Prairie House on the Lake

Photo gallery for Little Prairie House on the Lake

A stone fireplace with a television above it, a wooden mantel, and a rustic decor with a vase of dried plants.
A kitchen with wooden stools, a clock, and cabinets.
A house with a porch, a small deck, and a flag.
A kitchen with blue cabinets, a wooden dining table, and a coffee maker.
A two-story house with a flat roof, a small porch, and a visible garage.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
4 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Dock

Explore the area

View map
Ayrshire, IA
  • Place, Great Oak Townhall
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Brushy Bayou Wildlife Area
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, Clay County Fairgrounds
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 4

1 Single Sofa Bed

Guest 1

2 Single Beds

Guest 2

2 Single Bunk Beds

Master

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Downstairs

Toilet

Upstairs Bath

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Little Prairie House on the Lake

Restored 1920s Farmhouse/Cabin on the prairie with access to beautiful Silver Lake. Escape to a quiet peaceful rest. Paddleboat, kayak, or take a leisure nature walk. Lake is stocked with walleye and several types of panfish. Watch bald eagles, Canadian geese, blue heron, deer, and other friendly critters. Stargaze away from city lights against a black velvet sky while bullfrogs serenade. Full kitchen with keurig coffee, French press, and all amenities. This retreat is rustic with original oak flooring. comfortable and relaxed. Lot is mostly mowed with some natural prairie grass for effect.
Queen bed in Master bedroom. 3 singles (bunk beds and twin in two other bedrooms. 1 1/2 baths with tub/shower combo and comfy couch in living room. Please be aware this is an old farmhouse on what was once prairie next to a lake. We do our best to keep things clean but it's not antiseptic. Things can get a bit dusty if it's windy and you're liable to find insects and critters on the property. Think Little House in the Prairie vs the Hilton:)

Ring camera installed pointing toward driveway from front porch only for security reasons for guests and property.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please no smoking anywhere on the property inside or outside.
Please stay on our property and refrain from trespassing onto neighbors properly tp include their docks, driveways etc.
Please return the property to its original condition and configuration inside and out.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1497581vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Ayrshire

Located in Ayrshire, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Five Island Golf Course and Spencer Municipal Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Whitetail Flats Wildlife Area and Brushy Bayou Wildlife Area. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating and sledging.
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Map
Ayrshire, IA

What's nearby

  • Great Oak Townhall - 12 min drive - 17.2 km
  • Brushy Bayou Wildlife Area - 20 min drive - 25.3 km
  • Five Island Lake - 24 min drive - 34.6 km
  • Wild Rose Casino - 26 min drive - 35.6 km
  • Clay County Fairgrounds - 29 min drive - 41.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Beaver's Den - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Blue Moon II - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Little Prairie House on the Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Little Prairie House on the Lake ?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Little Prairie House on the Lake ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Little Prairie House on the Lake ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Little Prairie House on the Lake located?

This family-friendly Ayrshire holiday home is located on the waterfront, 8.7 mi (14.1 km) from Great Oak Townhall, and within 16 mi (25 km) of Whitetail Flats Wildlife Area and Brushy Bayou Wildlife Area. Watson Heritage Area and Rogers Wildlife Area are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 52 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 70 reviews

8.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was perfect for our quick weekend getaway. It was very hot when we were staying there so the host brought in extra room air conditioners which was very appreciated. We accidently blew a fuse and couldn't find the breaker, contacted the host, and he responded immediately! Very good communication!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great host!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great view of Silver Lake from the property ! Spacious kichen and dining area.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in
The house is fine and the proximity to the lake is nice. The property owners have opted to offer lower rates and have guests clean before they leave. We did not know this. We were expecting things to be clean based on past reviews, unfortunately, that is not what we found. Cleanliness left a lot to be desired. We were unable to use the paddle boat or kayak due to a very narrow trail to a dock that could use some maintenance. Nonetheless, we had a bonding experience at this property.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice getaway

This venue had everything we needed. We enjoyed the stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great place of solitude.

We enjoyed how quiet it was.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2023
Thanks so much Brook! Glad you enjoyed your stay:)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second time staying here

Always great, thanks kent!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very relaxing

Quiet, comfortable, peaceful. The lake was pleasant and the fishing was great. We enjoyed our stay very much.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Iowa Family Visit

The house is a great find for a family getaway. We loved the peaceful setting and access to the lake. The house is definitely older, with the wear and tear you'd expect, but it has a quaint charm and you can't beat the location and price.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful quiet location with a nice peaceful lake to sit by.

We had a relaxing weekend by the lake. The owner was very helpful and easy to communicate with.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2020
James. Thanks for letting us host you. You’re welcome back anytime:)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ice Fishing Weekend

Great property close to several bodies of water making it a perfect place to rent for a fishing weekend. The property was clean and comfortable. The owner was very nice and very hospitable. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family fun weekend

It was a quality, comfortable house. Needs some minor improvements but was very enjoyable for me and my family
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful at the Lake

We really enjoyed our time at this house. The area is peaceful and lake is pretty. The house is nice, comfortable and cozy with everything we needed. Communication with the owners was easy and they are very responsive. We would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice getaway

It's a nice place. Quiet and peaceful. The lake view on the dock is stunning as the sun comes up and reflects over the water. I would definitely go again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace and quiet

I needed a place that I could just escape and complete an online training. This home was perfect! Peaceful and the WiFi was able to keep up with my course.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 October 2022
Glad things worked out perfectly for you Toni:)
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unplugging with the kids

Quaint and comfottable. A great place to do exaclty what we set out to do...unplug and relax.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rest and Relax

My husband and I were needing a break from our hectic life. We used to go fishing at the family cabin on the lake but had to sell it after my father passed away. This place brought back so many memories. After our stay, we both felt so relaxed. Great place to recharge!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A relaxing retreat.

I enjoyed my stay at the Lake House. The house is not a luxury home. But it is very comfortable. The place is fully furnished.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 September 2022
So happy you enjoyed the cabin and your stay. Blessings to you and please come again!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Relaxing

If you’re looking for a private and relaxing get away at an older home with a vintage feel then this is the place for you. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the private and peaceful sitting area surrounded by some natural prairie vegetation the best. We loved sitting by the firepit watching the wood burn and made food on the grill. This place was the perfect place to spend the July 4th holiday. We are definitely thinking about booking again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good Value

I lived in an old farm house for years so I appreciated the value - lake access, dock, swing, mulberries, basic supplies, natural prairie yard, plenty of towels, great host interactions, etc. Fwiw, spouse was not as excited about the classic feel/tidiness. Silver Lake was bigger than expected. All things considered, imho - good value.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Needs some TLC!

The property could benefit greatly from some overall spiffing up! The "back yard" needs landscaping; front curb appeal needs some attention; the bunk beds need structural attention; access to the dock and lake is challenging especially if paddle boat use is desired; and a new charcoal grill would be nice!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 September 2022
Gary. Thanks for your feedback. We've tried to have a balance between native prairie and manicured mowed lawn...providing for the pollinators. This also makes the dock a bit secluded. Hopefully you enjoyed free use of the kayak and paddleboat. We've opted to offer a gas grill which most guests seem to prefer. Blessings on you and thanks again for your feedback.
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Bugs!!

Overall the place was okay. The gnats were horrible and we couldn't use the dock for fishing because they were so thick. I would recommend some mowing more or applying some repellent. House needs some remodeling. I would rate this place a C+.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Hello Terri. Yes this was a horrible year for gnats. Things are better now. There's really no way to control this especially on a lake. I'm very clear in the description that things like this can happen on a lake. I feel your rating is quite unfair considering this is out of our control. But all the best to you and your family. Blessings. Kent
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication, location

The hills have eyes

I was rather disappointed in the property. No place to sit out and enjoy the lake due to lack of yard maintenance, only a path mowed to the lake. That had over grown trees and shrubs and grass.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just like going to a friend's cabin for the weekend!

Cute cabin on a lovely little lake. You get the feel that Kent and family are your family friends and they're letting you use their cabin for the weekend! It is reasonably clean but could probably use an occasional deep clean and minor home repairs (living room door handle, banister spindle). This was not problem for our family at all. The kitchen has condiments and spices and plenty of dishes/pots/pans to use. The paddle boat and kayaks are great and were a huge hit for my family, as well as the mulberry trees all over the property. It would be helpful to have a sign or arrow pointing to the correct dock for the property or a wider paddle-boat sized path. There are books, games, puzzles, tv/Roku, and a few toys for kids too. Our family really enjoyed our stay and would go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lake Getaway

Our stay at the property was nice. We were just there for one night. With the later check-in time we were unable to use the lake access because of bad weather rolled in about the same time we arrived. We made the best of it by playing board games and watched a movie. In the morning we were able to use the paddle boat and kayak. We did a little fishing and then we had to hurry to check out. The weather was probably the most disappointing part of our stay which cannot be controlled. The property itself could use a lot of TLC. You could barely get to the dock because the trees around the entrance were basically blocking it. There is a lot of potential, just need some deep cleaning and a lot of yardwork.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 September 2022
Monica. So glad you enjoyed your stay and free use of our kayak and paddleboat. Blessings.

About the host

Hosted by Kent

Host profile image
Retired Air Force Lt Col/Chaplain

Why they chose this property

Extremely Quiet and Relaxing. Enjoying the Lake and the Countryside!

What makes this property unique

Direct lake access via a secluded dock. Paddleboating and kayaking are free!

Languages:

English, Chinese (Mandarin)

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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