Bear Island (Lake Winnipesaukee) facts for kids

Bear Island is the second largest island in Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, United States. There are 264 islands in this big lake!

During summer, you can only reach Bear Island by boat. This is because it doesn't have a bridge connecting it to the mainland. In winter, when the lake freezes, people can travel to the island across the ice. They often use snowmobiles.

The island got its name a long time ago. The Lake Winnipesaukee Historical Society says that some hunters and members of the Pennacook tribe explored the island. They found bears there and decided to hunt them. The island was first called "Big Bear Island." Later, in 1799, the town of Meredith took control of the island. Its name was then shortened to "Bear Island."

About Bear Island's Land

Bear Island is located on the eastern side of Meredith Neck in Lake Winnipesaukee. The closest part of the island is about 1,200 feet (366 meters) from the mainland. Most of the island is about 0.5 to 1.0 mile (0.8 to 1.6 kilometers) out in the lake.

The island is about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) long. It has about 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers) of shoreline.

The Carry

A narrow section in the middle of the island divides it into two main parts. This area is called "The Carry." People say it got its name because explorers would carry their canoes across this narrow strip to get to the other side of the island.

Both halves of the island rise about 150 feet (46 meters) above the lake's surface. The island covers about 780 acres (3.15 square kilometers).

Nature and Homes

Most of Bear Island is covered in forests. Along the shoreline, you'll find around 200 seasonal cottages. These are homes used mainly in the warmer months.

Much of the island's inner land is protected for conservation. This means it's kept natural. There are many walking trails to explore. You can also see old stone walls crossing the island. These walls show that the rocky soil was once used for farming.

St. John's Church

A church called St. John's was built on the island in 1927. It is a non-denominational church, meaning it welcomes people from all Christian backgrounds. The church was built around an observation tower that was already 25 years old. Services are held there on summer Sundays at 10:00 AM.

Summer Camps

Bear Island is home to two YMCA summer camps. One camp is for boys, and the other is for girls.

• The boys' camp is called Camp Lawrence.
• The girls' camp is called Camp Nokomis.

Both camps are supported by the Bear Island Camps Association. They are run by the Merrimack Valley YMCA. These camps offer fun summer experiences for kids.