How to Find the Best Rental for Large Families

November 5, 2024

Planning a lakeside vacation with a large family can be challenging — between finding enough beds, ensuring there’s space for everyone to relax, and coordinating meals and activities, the logistics can get complicated. But the Lakes Region of New Hampshire offers plenty of vacation rentals that are perfect for big families — from spacious lakefront cabins to multi-bedroom homes with direct water access.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best tips for finding large family rentals, what amenities to look for, and the top properties in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region that can comfortably accommodate your crew.

Why Large Families Love the Lakes Region

New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is one of the best destinations for large families because it offers a mix of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly attractions.

Space: Larger homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms are common.
Water Access: Direct access to swimming, boating, and paddleboarding means easy entertainment for all ages.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: Many rentals offer game rooms, bunk beds, and large yards for play.
Close to Attractions: Most rentals are located near hiking trails, beaches, and town centers.

What to Look for in a Large Family Rental

Finding the right rental for a large family involves more than just counting the number of beds. Look for properties that offer enough space and amenities to keep everyone comfortable and entertained.

1. Multiple Bedrooms and Bathrooms

For families with teenagers or multiple couples, multiple bathrooms prevent morning traffic jams.
Bedrooms with bunk beds or twin beds are perfect for younger kids.
Consider separate living spaces or game rooms to give everyone a chance to relax.

Tip: A rental with at least 1 bathroom per 4 people is ideal for larger groups.

2. Fully Equipped Kitchen

Eating out every day gets expensive, so having a well-equipped kitchen makes meal prep easier and more affordable.

Look for rentals with:
- Large refrigerators.
- Multiple ovens or a double stove.
- Outdoor grills for easy summer cookouts.

Tip: A kitchen island or breakfast bar is perfect for quick family meals.

3. Indoor and Outdoor Gathering Spaces

A large dining table that seats 8–12 people.
Outdoor patios or decks with seating for family meals.
Fire pits and picnic tables for evening gatherings.

Tip: Outdoor seating with shade is especially important during the summer.

4. Water Access

Direct lake access or a private dock makes a huge difference for families with kids.
Calm water areas are ideal for paddleboarding and swimming.
Look for properties with a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard included in the rental.

Tip: Rentals on smaller lakes tend to be quieter and safer for kids.

5. Entertainment Options

Game rooms with pool tables, foosball, or video games.
TVs with streaming services and DVD players.
Board games and card games for rainy days.

Tip: Properties with Wi-Fi are essential if kids want to stream shows or play online games.

Best Large Family Vacation Rentals in the Lakes Region

1. Lake Winnipesaukee – Multi-Bedroom Lakefront Lodge

Lake Winnipesaukee has some of the largest vacation rentals in New Hampshire, with luxury properties that accommodate 10–20 people.

Size: 5–8 bedrooms, 4+ bathrooms.
Amenities: Private dock, hot tub, and large deck.
Kid-Friendly: Bunk rooms and game rooms.

Tip: Look for rentals near Meredith or Wolfeboro for the best dining and shopping options.

2. Ossipee Lake – Family-Friendly Cabin with Private Beach

Ossipee Lake is ideal for large family gatherings, thanks to its sandy beaches and calm water.

Size: 4–6 bedrooms, 3+ bathrooms.
Amenities: Private dock, fire pit, and screened porch.
Kid-Friendly: Shallow swimming area with sandy bottom.

Tip: Most rentals around Ossipee Lake require a minimum stay of 4–7 nights during peak season.

3. Newfound Lake – Large Homes with Open Floor Plans

Newfound Lake offers some of the cleanest water in New Hampshire, and nearby rentals are known for their spacious layouts.

Size: 4–6 bedrooms, 3+ bathrooms.
Amenities: Large decks with lake views, game rooms, and direct water access.
Kid-Friendly: Calm water and easy beach access.

Tip: Rentals near Wellington State Park offer the best combination of privacy and lake access.

4. Belleau Lake – Secluded Homes with Plenty of Space

Belleau Lake is smaller and less crowded than Lake Winnipesaukee, but it still offers large family-friendly rentals with excellent amenities.

Size: 3–5 bedrooms, 2+ bathrooms.
Amenities: Private docks, paddleboards, and kayaks included.
Kid-Friendly: Large yards and quiet beaches.

Tip: Belleau Lake is especially ideal for multi-generational family vacations — it’s quiet, calm, and relaxing.

5. Lake Sunapee – High-End Rentals with Lake Views

Lake Sunapee offers larger, more luxurious rental options — perfect for family reunions or multi-family trips.

Size: 5–8 bedrooms, 4+ bathrooms.
Amenities: Private beach, boat dock, and large kitchen.
Kid-Friendly: Shallow, sandy entry points into the water.

Tip: Sunapee properties book quickly — reserve at least 6 months in advance.

How to Keep a Large Family Vacation Stress-Free

Book Early

Large properties fill up quickly — book at least 6 months in advance for summer stays.
Look for properties with flexible cancellation policies.

Set Up a Meal Plan

Planning meals in advance saves money and reduces stress.
Choose a rental with a large kitchen and outdoor grill to keep cooking simple.

Divide Responsibilities

Assign meal prep, cleaning, and activity planning to different family members.
Keep a shared calendar for activities and meal times.

Create Space for Quiet Time

Large families need personal space — choose a rental with multiple living areas.
Encourage kids to have “quiet time” during the afternoon to avoid meltdowns.

Why the Lakes Region is Perfect for Large Families

New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is one of the most versatile family vacation destinations in New England. Whether you want to spend the day on a boat, explore local hiking trails, or relax by the water, there’s something for every age and interest.

By choosing a large rental with the right combination of amenities — space, entertainment, and water access — you can create a stress-free, memorable family vacation.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect large family vacation rental is all about balance — enough room for everyone to spread out, kid-friendly amenities, and easy access to outdoor activities. The Lakes Region’s diverse rental options make it easy to find a property that fits your family’s needs and budget.

Ready to plan your family’s next adventure? Book a large lakefront rental today and start making memories in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region!