Entire home

Family Home on Lake Sara

Lakefront holiday home with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Family Home on Lake Sara

Outside view of the Bunkhouse, upper deck and lower patio.
Side view from Drive
Outside view of the Bunkhouse, upper deck and lower patio.
View from close to water
Easy access upper deck to lower patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View map
Effingham, IL
  • Place, Cardinal Golf Course
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Sara
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Effingham Performance Center
    ‪18 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 2 upstairs

1 Queen Bed

BunkRoom

2 Double Bunk Beds

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Family Home on Lake Sara

The Bunkhouse is a fantastic place for families and friends to reconnect and make lasting memories. With walk-in lake access, this is the ideal spot to put in a kayak, canoe, or float. Enjoy swimming and fishing for a variety of fish including bass, crappie, catfish, or bluegill. Boat rentals and slips are available at both the Blue Gill Marina and Larson’s Landing.
The Bunkhouse is quiet and peaceful, it is located at the end of Illini cove surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. This cozy cabin was constructed in 2020 and is a wonderful place to unwind and spend time in nature. Our front deck is perfect for bird watching and animal spying while soaking up some sun. Don’t be surprised if you spot a blue heron, turtles bathing in the sun, or even an occasional bald eagle. The lower walk out area includes a grill, picnic table and beautiful views of the lake. There is a fire pit for hanging out, roasting marshmallows and enjoying the night sky.
Amenities include a washer and dryer, WIFI, 4 TVs, a dishwasher, air conditioning and heating, a full kitchen stocked with pots and pans, dishes, and everything needed to prepare your own meals. Downstairs is a kitchenette which includes a snack area and full coffee bar. Enjoy a night in by playing one of a variety of board games or simply find a quiet place to read a book. Numerous smart TV’s are available to stream your Netflix or Hulu account, as well as a DVD player for old school movie viewing. A large parking area is available for up to 6 cars. If you are bringing a pontoon or ski boat contact Blue Gill Marina for slip rental, no dock available at property.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
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

Pets allowed
1 small dog, extra charge
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
All guests must park at rear of property, which is the back of house where you enter.
Boats can be docked at Bluegill Marina or Larson's Landing. A copy of lake rules will be available at the BunkHouse.

Important information

You need to know

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Effingham

Located in Effingham, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Cardinal Golf Course and Pepper's Ridge Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Bliss Park and Effingham County Fairgrounds.
Map
Effingham, IL

What's nearby

  • Cardinal Golf Course - 14 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Cross at the Crossroads - 16 min drive - 10.9 km
  • Lake Sara - 17 min drive - 11.9 km
  • Effingham Performance Center - 18 min drive - 13.0 km
  • Effingham County Courthouse - 19 min drive - 12.9 km

Getting around

  • Effingham Station - 21 min drive
  • Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) - 80 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Golden Corral - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Family Home on Lake Sara pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Family Home on Lake Sara?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Family Home on Lake Sara?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Family Home on Lake Sara located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Cardinal Golf Course, Lake Sara and Effingham Performance Center. Bliss Park and Ballard Nature Center are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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. 131 out of 134 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 134 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 134 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 134 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 134 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

bob f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amenities were perfect. House was clean, safe and move in ready. Couldn’t have asked for more. Will definitely be back next year for a longer stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Bunkhouse continues to be a family favorite for us. The many different spaces make a large group comfortable, and the kitchen is well equipped. We will be back again!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cindy O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at The Bunkhouse! Diana went above and beyond to supply items needed for our grandchildren. Great communication. House was extremely clean set in a park like setting.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gwen a.

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

Peaceful

The property was truly a jewel and we loved it!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alexia B.

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

Family Holiday weekend

Stayed at this property to see family near by and attend the Indy 500. It was the perfect place! There is lots of space. It is decorated very cute and has everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. It was private and secluded in the woods. It’s a quiet and peaceful place, wish we could’ve stayed longer, but hope to come back again!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

kathy p.

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

Great family gathering

The home is beautiful and spacious. The main level and walk out basement areas were both set up with everything we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Crystal J.

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

Girls Trip

2nd time renting. House still amazing as the 1st time. Exactly what we needed for a long weekend away with our kids!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Ann P.

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

Bunco group

This is a great property but I would recommend it for four adult and four children only. The bunk beds really don’t serve adults well. It is beautifully decorated and well stocked kitchen and lots of gathering space. The bedding is not great and the pillows need replacing
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Betty G.

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

Perfect

Amazing atmosphere, comfortable and secluded, very clean. Could not have been more perfect! Recommend 100%
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lois D.

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

Amazing Getaway Spot

The pictures don’t accurately depict the beautiful attributes of this home. The detail and design are beyond amazing! We had a great time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brad G.

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

Fishing Trip

The House was just what were looking for .Very Quiet, Very Clear , Everything you would need was there, the fishing was great, what a great place to set back and take in the nature around us. We had no complaints.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle E.

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

The Bunk house was great!

Beautiful home and setting. Very very clean. Great decor. Fully stocked in every possible way. It was very comfortable and very much a home away from home feeling. We would highly recommend! The host was wonderful to work with. This is a must stay!
Stayed 21 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Dena H.

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

Mother/Daughter trip

Comfortable and peaceful. A little off the beaten path so needed to be better prepared with meals and food. A little better clarification in regards to trash and recycling. The nature sounds as well as the wildlife was amazing!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Terri B.

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

Great Family Getaway

My family enjoyed their second visit to the Bunkhouse. We especially enjoyed relaxing on the deck. The deck was perfect for reading, eating snacks, and having long conversations. The house was as nice as it was for our visit 2 years ago. A dock had been added, which made it easier to use the kayaks. My son also caught numerous fish off the dock. We hope to return again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janet T.

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

Bunkhouse @ Lake Sara is Wonderful

Don't tell anyone but this location exceeded my expectations. There are thoughtful things everywhere. The space to relax, the views, the quiet were wonderful. This property owner/manager knows what it takes to entertain guests. There wasn't a thing we needed. Being there in person, is the only way to experience this property, my family was so happy! Thank you for sharing this property.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane L.

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

Family Reunion at Lake Sara

My family is spread out from Wisconsin to Missouri and we only can get together during the summer. My sister and I each rented vacation homes on Lake Sara this year. The Bunkhouse was the perfect location on Lake Sara. We had lots of room to spread out and visit as well as enjoy fishing off the dock. We loved seeing the blue heron soar across the lake. The kitchen is large and well-equipped for preparing meals. The large living spaces on the first floor and lower level are comfortable and nicely furnished. We would love to meet family at the Bunkhouse again next summer! This is a great place!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terri B.

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

Wonderful Family Getaway

The Bunkhouse was perfect for our family getaway! It was large enough to accommodate six adults, a child, and a dog. There was plenty of space for us to be together, and enough room to separate when we needed our privacy. We all enjoyed the deck area from drinking our morning coffee, to relaxing and talking,, playing games, and eating meals. We enjoyed a camp fire in the fire pit (s'mores and hot dogs included), used the kayaks, and watched and listened to the sights and sounds of nature. We rented a boat at the marina, had lunch at Pinky's, and built a sand castle at the public beach. There was truly something for everyone. Thank you to our host, we hope to return again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Peggy M. G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lots of appliances, ice. We didn't cook at all, but could have. Very clean home, lovely decor
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ken L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Three minutes after we arrived, our three granddaughters certified the Bunkhouse as a great place to stay. We agreed. More room than expected and a very quiet location were the first two things that we noticed. Everything was spotless and in like new condition along with being the best well stocked rental we’ve ever experienced. It well deserves the 10 rating and if you have the occasion to work with Diana, you’ll also find out why she is a 10 rated host.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful house with 3 Bedrooms 3Bath, large living areas large outdoor Deck, very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

BETH H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another great experience. Thanks so much!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This my second stay at the Bunk House for my family's annual reunion. The home is spacious and equipped with everything you could possibly need. There is plenty of seating in the dining room and on the deck that we use when we gather for meals. My family and I will be returning next summer. Thank you for providing us with a wonderful place to make memories.A couple comments that need attention - we could not get the Keurig coffeemaker to work properly, and the home could use another full-length mirror.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angie L.

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

Great Home!

The house was amazing! It was beautifully decorated & was clean. There were ample bath/kitchen towels, cleaning supplies, toiletries etc. that allowed our stay to be comfortable. With 2 living, dining & kitchen areas, it gave our group much more space to spread out comfortably. There is plenty of parking & great outdoor space. We’ve already booked for next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Veronica H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property with tons of amenities. It was clean, stocked, and as advertised which is a huge plus for VRBO properties. Owner was prompt and thorough in communications, we never had any issues at all. We stayed for a long weekend with 2 other families and we had a great time. The house had everything we needed for meals and family time. Only warning is that the downstairs bedroom bunkbeds really are for kids. If you're over 5' they will be really uncomfortable, I had to sleep on the couch in the living room being over 6'. That said you could easily sleep 4-6 kids in there so depends on your guest list. One other very minor issue is they have a 4 person peddleboat on property but it was pretty gross so we didn't try to use it. Kayaks were great and the lake was beautiful and surrounded by beautiful properties.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janice O.

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

70th birthday

It started with 6 friends to celebrate my 70th birthday. 2 friends from out of state surprised me and slso a surprise party. This house was perfect! Very well stocked, comfortable and enough room to spread out to play cards or visit. I would definitely book again! And the host responded very quickly. We loved the scenery with the snow and watching the wildlife.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

About the host

Hosted by Diana Kirkpatrick

Host profile image

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests