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Lake Sara Dream

Photo gallery for Lake Sara Dream

A two-story cabin with a wooden deck, a swing, and a staircase leading to an upper level.
A shuffleboard table with numbered scoring areas, a wooden border, and metal pucks at the end.
A riverside deck with a view of a dock and a small boat.
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a stainless steel refrigerator, a granite countertop, and a bar stool.
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and bar stools.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathrooms186 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

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

Room options

About the area

Effingham

At this holiday home, you'll be 0.1 km (0.1 mi) from Lake Sara and 8.9 km (5.5 mi) from Cardinal Golf Course. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a washing machine and a fireplace. .Home features 2 bathrooms, a balcony and a TV. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A coffee/tea maker, a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board are also available. .This pet-friendly holiday home offers a garden and charcoal grills. Plus you'll find laundry facilities. .Sights within a 20-minute drive of this Effingham holiday home include Ballard Nature Center and Effingham Performance Center.
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What's nearby

  • Lake Sara - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Cardinal Golf Course - 17 min drive - 12.0 km
  • Effingham Performance Center - 18 min drive - 13.7 km
  • Lake Shelbyville - 53 min drive - 59.7 km
  • Lake Shelbyville Beach - 58 min drive - 65.2 km

Getting around

  • Effingham Station - 19 min drive
  • Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) - 78 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Golden Corral - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Niemerg's Steakhouse - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬18 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Lake Sara Dream

This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom renovated retreat provides you with everything you need to have fun at the lake this year! Great location on the water of Gypsy Cove where you can relax in the water or drop a line in to fish. New platform roof top dock gives you plenty of space to relax and catch some sun rays! There is space for you to bring your own boat or rent one at the local marina. The cove is the perfect place to learn how to waterski, wakeboard, or tube.

Inside the home you will find two living spaces along with a small mini kitchen downstairs, a full bathroom, and a bedroom. There is also access to the lake and outside patio areas from the downstairs living space.
The home sleeps 8 comfortably in beds and is the max for this vacation retreat. The kitchen is equipped with everything you will need during your stay. A Smart tv is located in the living room upstairs & living room downstairs. We do NOT offer Direct TV. bring your firesticks or PW for netflix, amazon, etc. A washer & dryer is available for your use as well downstairs. The home has central air conditioning & heat. We do have wi-fi...all the connection instructions will be inside the home.

Outside there is large deck off the house that is great for entertaining or eating a meal. We have a charcoal grill on the deck for your use to grill out. There is a fire pit outside for your use. We do not usually stock firewood so I would recommend getting some beforehand for your use. If there is wood provided, feel free to use some of it. A short path leads down to the boat dock from the large deck, there you will find Adirondack chairs for relaxation & floats for use in the water. The door on the left side of the boat house has floats & noodles for use. Please be respectful of the neighbors and keep noise to a minimum later in the evenings. Failure to do so will result in funds taken from deposit.

If anything is damaged during your stay PLEASE let us know so we can replace what has been broken.

We use this home as well as our home away from home retreat with our family. Anything you may find in the fridge as far as condiments or in the pantry or freezer, was food that we may have bought for use during our stay. Everyone is more than welcome to consume these items, but please do not throw anything away unless it has expired/gone bad.

We want to invite anyone who wants to enjoy Lake Sara to its fullest to come relax! We strive to make your experience the best it can be. We hope to see you soon!

A couple notes:

-The boat in the lift is not for rental use, there are a couple marinas on the lake that offer boat rentals.
-There is plenty of parking for boats on each side of dock.
-Please respect our home as you would your own.
-be respectful of the neighbors. They are within close proximity to the vacation rental and we would hate to disturb them. Failure to do this could result in issues with the neighbors and funds taken from deposit.

Thank you for understanding.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Charcoal grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Printer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: NO SMOKING ALLOWED

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Water sports equipment

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 2,000 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

-DO NOT FLUSH ANYTHING OTHER THAN TOILET PAPER DOWN THE TOILET -NO LOUD MUSIC AFTER 11 PM!!!! WE HAVE NEIGHBORS!!!! Be respectful!!!!

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Maximum 2 pets
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

NO PARTIES OR EVENTS AT ALL!

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

NO SMOKING ALLOWED

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
Note from host: NO PARTIES OR EVENTS AT ALL!
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. 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. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Note from host: NO PARTIES OR EVENTS AT ALL! For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Serenity in Shumway Cove

Lake Sara Dream Effingham

Lake Sara Dream Private vacation home

Lake Sara Dream Private vacation home Effingham

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Lake Sara Dream?

The closest beach to Lake Sara Dream is Lake Shelbyville Beach (34.3 km).

Does Lake Sara Dream have a pool?

No, this holiday home doesn't have a pool.

Is Lake Sara Dream family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities, a charcoal grill and travel cots, it's no surprise that Lake Sara Dream is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Lake Sara Dream?

No, Lake Sara Dream does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Lake Sara Dream?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Lake Sara Dream Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 77 out of 93 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 93 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 93 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 93 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 93 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very quiet and secluded location on a great Lake Sara cove! The house and property is very clean and well maintained. Plenty of dock space for a boat. Overall a great vacation rental..thank you to the owners for sharing their property!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lynn G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place! Second time we have stayed for a long weekend with our adult kids. Great dock for our boat, quiet cove, great views from decks and dock . Perfect relaxing getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Justin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a great stay! We love spending time on the lake. Memories made for a lifetime.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah R.

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

Birthday Trip

Wonderful place to stay at Lake Sara. We had the best time. This property has everything you can need for a relaxing trip away. Our kids especially loved being able to jump off and swim at the dock. Can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bridget B.

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

Family Weekend

The house was just as pictured and a great place for our family weekend away. We enjoyed the lake and the dock for fishing and relaxing. We hope to visit this house again next year.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Theresa F.

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

Family holiday celebration

Our second visit to Lake Sara Dream for an early Christmas celebration was terrific!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Theresa F.

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

Holiday Celebration

Our extended family has spent a fall weekend at Lake Sara Dream for the last three years. The house is so cute and it is just perfect for us to relax and visit with each other.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Justin S.

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

The Best!

Great location on Lake Sara! Fun time with friends. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laura S.

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

Great Getaway

I grew up coming to Lake Sara. It was fun to come back with my family to see how much it has grown and changed. The house was great and the lake access was perfect. We enjoyed fishing and swimming!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing vacation at this property. The home is beautifully maintained, comfortable, and thoughtfully laid out. The setting is serene and picturesque, making it easy to unwind. Communication with the host was smooth, and the value for money was excellent. We’re already planning to return next year. Highly recommended!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lynn G.

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

Great place!

So fun! Quick communication with owner, great spot on the lake! Only complaint I can think of is they could use a good skillet, and some more silverware. But we survived and loved it! Beds were comfy, Loved the canoe, and fishing.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sue G.

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

Perfect lake location

Perfect spot to spend a weekend with our good friends . Clean quiet and perfect for jumping in the lake for a swim. Equipped with everything you need. A/C worked great with ceiling fans and floor fans in every room. Bingo at the winery and boat rental for a tour of the lake !
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Janice W.

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

Family is everthing

Home was beautiful! Location was quiet and views were spectacular! Everyone in our group found something to do. Kayaks, canoe, fishing off the dock, campfires etc. Room to dock both of our boats and to park trailers!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Debi W.

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

Will be back

Everything was just like we expected, had lots of fun in the water rain or shine. Can’t wait till next time
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jane B.

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

Dads birthday

Returned to my childhood, home to visit family for my dad’s birthday. Lake Sara has been a place where we spent many fun happy times, and so to return was very special! And the home was just perfect!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Theresa C.

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

Perfect Getaway

This is the second year my group has booked this house for our annual girls weekend. The house is a great size, enough private rooms for our different sleeping schedules, 2 tv areas for when everyone needs their space but also enough seating upstairs for everyone to hang out together, 2 fridges, several beautiful outdoor seating options and the dock and lake access are awesome.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Diane L.

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

Family reunion

At Lake Sara for a family reunion. Kitchen was well stocked and there is a large great room. Bedrooms and bathrooms are small but adequate. Porch railing in need of cleaning. Great lake access and nice grounds provides privacy. Nice lower level with room to spare. privacy.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

margaret b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house wonderful we went up there for fishing, But unfortunately it was very hot and we did not catch to many fish. But we all really enjoyed the house. We got up there a little early and we asked Amber the host if we could get in early and she yes. This is the second time we rented her house. She is such a gracious host. I would recommend this house to stay in. Was fantastic. Thank you again Amber.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Marcy H.

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

Met in the Middle!

We met my brother and wife at Lake Sara (mid location between our 2 cities). We met at Tuscan Hills Winery and then to the property. We were so charmed by the location and pleased with the lake house! The temperature dropped but we were so cozy cooking together, watching a Chiefs' victory, and hanging out together! Couldn't find the guest book. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Marcy M.

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

Beautiful home in quiet cove and easily accessible boat dock!

Our extended family visited Lake Sara for the second time and really enjoyed staying in this home (plus a second home on the lake less than a mile away). We enjoyed floating near the dock, kayaking, fishing, and roasting marshmallows at the fire pit. We brought our boat and the cove was easy to get in and out of. Plenty of sunshine or shade with the decks. We enjoyed watching wildlife (deer, turtle, fish, blue heron, and a friendly chipmunk) and relaxing. This home is beautiful inside and out - well-appointed with what you need to have an enjoyable stay. Updated bathrooms and comfortable beds. We will be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nikki L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Charlene K.

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

Amazing Get-Away

Not knowing where we were going (it's definitely in the woods and it takes a GPS to get there), we were so surprised and delighted when we arrived and entered the home. It was perfect for our family of 7. Beds were comfy and kitchen had everything we needed for light meals. We wondered what it would be like during the different seasons of the year since the location is so wooded and on a little inlet of the lake. Definitely would recommend staying here and if we're ever back in the area, would check if it was available.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Thanksgiving at the Lake

We enjoyed our stay at the Cox Cottage while we visited nearby family for Thanksgiving. The property had all items we needed and space for the kids and adults to hang out together or get some space.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

margaret b.

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

Cox Cottage

The house was beautiful. We really enjoy our stay. You had up stairs and down. Lot of space for us we had 7adults. We brought are boats there room for two a pontoon and a fishing boat. We can’t wait to go back.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hannah T.

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

Great, quiet family weekend option

The house is set up really well for a great get together with family. We grew up on Lake Sara, and it was so nice to return and have it feel like old times. I would certainly recommend this to anyone looking for a great option on the lake.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022