Meredith, New Hampshire
Conserving Bear Island for generations to come.
Protecting our island land, wildlife, habitat, and the natural character that makes Bear Island so extraordinary.
About BICA
Keeping Bear Island wild, resilient, and protected.
Bear Island Conservation Association (BICA) is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the natural character of Bear Island in Meredith, New Hampshire.
We steward and protect interior island land, protect wildlife and habitat, and practice responsible forest management- keeping Bear Island wild for the people, plants, and animals who call it home.
Island History
Miles of lake, forest, and shared history.
Bear Island long ago was home to early settlers who farmed and raised cattle to survive, and later to guests who arrived by train, horse & buggy to enjoy a stay at the former Bear Island Hotel.
Bear Island is the second largest unbridged island of the 262 islands in Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. In the summer, it’s accessible only by boat, and during winter, it can be reached by crossing the frozen lake.
According to the Lake Winnipesaukee Historical Society, the island was named when several hunters, along with a few members of the Pennacook Indian tribe, were sent to survey the island and encountered a few bears on their journey.
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Originally the island was named "Big Bear Island," though the name was later shortened to "Bear Island" when the town of Meredith annexed the property in 1799.
Today, residents arrive by plane and car, and finally by boat. The unbridged three-mile-long island is home to 200 residences (plus or minus), and separate summer camps for girls and boys. The Sophie C. mail boat delivers to the busy mail dock at the north point of the island, bringing its post as well refreshments, souvenirs, ice cream and many touring passengers.
Not far from Church Cove is the stone church, St. John's on the Lake, which hosts Sunday services and often a rustic, summertime wedding.
From the Island
Experience Bear Island beyond the shoreline.
BearCam
A live webcam on the northern shore offers an ever-changing view of the lake throughout the year.
St. John's-on-the-Lake Chapel
Founded in 1927, this summer chapel on the lake provides ecumenical services to support the religious needs of the population of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Regardless of religious affiliation, all are welcome to join services on Sundays at this community center of worship. The chapel is located on the highest elevation of Bear Island in Meredith, New Hampshire. It can be reached by a short walk from the church docks located in Deep Cove on the west side of the island, as well as by other marked island paths.
Our Organization
Our conservation work is rooted in long-term care.
BICA combines land protection, thoughtful stewardship, and community advocacy to safeguard Bear Island’s ecological future. Learn about BICA’s mission and our decades of conservation advocacy.
01
Land conservation
Protecting island land to preserve open space and prevent the loss of critical natural areas.
02
Wildlife and habitat
Protecting the connected ecosystems that support Bear Island’s plants, birds, mammals, and aquatic life.
03
Responsible stewardship
Practicing long-term forest management and conservation advocacy grounded in science, care, and local knowledge.
Take Action
Help protect the island you love.
Looking to become a BICA member? Join a community committed to safeguarding Bear Island’s forests, habitat, and natural character for generations to come.
