A group of kayaks are sitting on the grass near a lake at sunset.

Welcome to Billie Bear Resort

Welcome to Billie Bear Resort, where the classic Muskoka cottage experience meets modern resort vibes! 

 

Nestled near between Huntsville and Lake of Bays, our traditional housekeeping cottages offer the perfect blend of nostalgia, excitement, and relaxation. Whether you're craving lively social scenes or quiet moments of solitude, we've got you covered. 

 

Offering a front-row seat to nature's symphony, immerse yourself in the beauty of Muskoka with scenic hiking trails, complimentary watercraft for endless lake adventures, and a pristine, sandy, gradual entry shoreline along Bella Lake.

 

Join us at Billie Bear Resort for an unforgettable blend of tradition, comfort, and adventure. Your Muskoka getaway awaits!


Opening Day - June 14th to Closing Day - October 14th 2026

The Cottages

Discover your perfect retreat among our 24 charming cottages at Billie Bear Resort. From cozy studios to the historic grandeur of our 5-bedroom Lodge, each cottage offers a unique blend of comfort and character. Enjoy the convenience of modern amenities, including bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens with all the essentials. We've got you covered with linens, plush bathroom towels, and even dish soap, ensuring a hassle-free escape to Muskoka's serene beauty.

A screened in porch with chairs and a table in front of it

The History

“Camp Billie Bear” was established in the early 1900s by a family from New York, who purchased the property from settler Elizabeth Hart to use as a fishing and hunting camp for themselves and their friends. Their private venture faded, but the guest circle expanded when Elizabeth’s daughter Mabel and her husband, one of the New York friends, opened their tourist camp in about 1906. They advertised good fishing, good food, and comfort in the heart of nature – essentials for the Muskoka tourism of the day.

Guests returned through generations to enjoy the rustic charm of a “camp” holiday, with its outdoor adventure and camaraderie. That tradition of informality and comfort has made Billie Bear a cherished destination for families seeking a quintessential Muskoka experience. Today, Billie Bear Resort continues to honour this heritage, welcoming guests to create their own memories amidst the timeless beauty of Bella Lake. Click below to learn more about our resort’s rich history!

A black and white photo of a snowy village with a fence in the foreground.

Our Cottages

Take a look at the different classes of our cottages and find one that fits your needs.

A log cabin with a screened in porch and chairs

Studios

Our five studio cottages are intended for singles or couples. Each is a cozy, comfortable space with a double or queen bed, full kitchen, and screened porch. Three are log cabins and three have fireplaces. Several are available in spring and fall for an especially quiet retreat or romantic get-away.

A small house with a screened in porch and stairs

1 Bedrooms

Small families fit comfortably into any of our six 1-bedroom cottages, which are rented by the week during the summer season and by the day or week in spring and fall.

A red house with a grill in front of it

2 Bedrooms

For families that need more space, our nine 2-bedroom cottages each offer one room with a queen bed and varying sleeping arrangements in the other. Some have a double bed in the second bedroom, a perfect choice for two couples sharing a cottage.

A white house with a red roof is surrounded by trees

3 Bedrooms

Larger families and small groups find our 3-bedroom cottages, accommodating 8 people (two cottages allow extra capacity), a perfect choice. Two cottages are close to the water; the third is closer to our Rec Hall, Court House, and tennis court, with plenty of grassy space for kids  and adults to play.

The Lodge

Located at the peak of the property, step into the charm and history of Billie Bear Lodge at Billie Bear Resort, the former social hub of the resort. Now a beautifully restored space, the lodge offers an ideal setting for small groups such as family gatherings, book clubs, work retreats, yoga retreats, and more. Five bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a beautiful large stone fireplace and the generous kitchen and living rooms provide a convenient and comfortable space.

Amenities

Welcome to Billie Bear Resort, where every amenity is designed to make your stay as delightful as a day at the lake! Swing into action on our tennis and pickleball courts, or test your skills at badminton with nets scattered throughout our grounds. Feel the sand between your toes as you serve up some fun on our beach volleyball court, or simply kick back and relax on our brand new docks as the sun sets over Bella Lake.


Sink your feet into the soft sands of our sandy, gradual entry, weed-free beach, perfect for a leisurely dip or building sandcastles with the kids. When night falls, gather 'round the fire pit for marshmallow roasting and storytelling under the stars. And for our little adventurers, supervised children's activities promise endless entertainment while parents unwind.


Stock up on essentials and indulge in sweet treats at our office, where you'll find everything from firewood for cozy campfires to the latest Billie Bear merchandise. Need assistance? Our onsite staff is just a cell phone call away, ready to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.


And don't worry about falling off the grid—we've got you covered with WiFi, so you can share every moment of your lakeside escapades with friends and family back home. At Billie Bear Resort, every amenity is a recipe for unforgettable memories!

A group of people are playing volleyball on a sandy court

Things to Do

At Billie Bear Resort, we're dedicated to ensuring your Muskoka experience is unforgettable. Dive into Bella Lake's pristine shoreline for swimming, fishing, or basking in the sun. Explore scenic hiking trails with trail maps available at our office.


Your holiday package includes access to complimentary non-motorized watercraft—canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats—along with life jackets and beach toys available at Bear Cub on the beach. Please note, motorboat rentals are available with a Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card.


Indulge in picnics at Antioch Conservation Area or paddle to Betty’s Island for a shorter trip. Relax on our deck, join beach volleyball, or unwind in the shade. Grab your Billie Bear passports for scheduled family activities and request sports equipment for tennis, badminton, basketball, soccer, and board games.


Stock up on essentials and souvenirs at our store, and stay connected with WiFi available resort-wide. Don't miss our library for reading pleasure during your stay.


With thoughtful amenities and boundless opportunities for relaxation and recreation, Billie Bear Resort promises an unforgettable Muskoka getaway.

A group of people are playing volleyball on a sandy court

Job Opportunities

Resort Staff: 

Billie Bear Resort. Love the outdoors? Love working with people? Are you looking for a unique and exciting summer job experience? Billie Bear Resort, located on beautiful Bella Lake in Muskoka, ON, is hiring a number of motivated individuals to join our staff team for the 2026 season.


Billie Bear Resort is a housekeeping cottage resort that offers the Muskoka cottage experience in a resort setting that lets guests be as social or as private as they like. Since 1906, Billie Bear has offered guests a retreat amid the water, forest, and rock of Muskoka. Located on the shores of pristine Bella Lake, Billie Bear's connection to nature includes over 800 feet of sandy shoreline, complimentary watercraft, hiking trails, and so much more. Billie Bear Resort is all about family and friends!


Seasonal contracts run from June (flexible start dates) until Labour Day or Thanksgiving 2026.

Applicants must be able to undertake light manual work and be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.


Responsibilities:

Staff members at Billie Bear Resort play an integral role in maintaining the efficient operation and appearance of the resort to ensure the well-being of guests, owners, and fellow staff of the resort. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, guest services, children's program, grounds maintenance, cottage cleaning, front desk services, laundry, water testing, and more. Staff members at Billie Bear have the unique opportunity to experience almost all aspects of resort operations. Every day is different!


What you can expect to learn at Billie Bear Resort:

- An in-depth understanding of all aspects of resort operations and processes

- Problem solving and prioritization skills

- Guest relations experience


Requirements:

  • Ages 18-30
  • Canadian Citizen
  • Staff live on-site (18+); accommodation is provided.
  • Applicants must be able to undertake light manual work and be comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
  • Valid driver's license (G2 or higher)
  • Pleasure Craft Operator's Card
  • CPR and First Aid certifications would be an asset.
  • Previous experience dealing with children and the public is an asset.
  • Experience working with watercraft and lawn mowers is also an asset.
  • A Police Vulnerable Sector Check is required.


Perks:

  • Furnished on-site accommodation is provided.
  • Successful candidates are welcome to make use of the resort's amenities during their time off.
  • Salary is commensurate with experience.
  • Time off: 2 days per week.


Salary: $18 - $22/hr for a max of 40 hours per week.

please email your CV & cover letter to rentals@billiebear.com



Reviews

See what our clients have to say about us.

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Been going here for almost 40 years. Family friendly with much to do at the lodge and in the area.


 Paul Schaedlich, Google Reviews




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Billie Bear is excellent - the water is beautiful with a sandy bottom, there are many kayaks, paddle board, boat rentals, and canoes to use,the cabins are clean and well organized, and the view is lovely.


Jillian Vardy, Google Reviews

Wonderful cottages off of the beaten path. Great resort with a variety of rustic cottages right on lake Bella. They offer free use of canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and paddle boats and also have motor boats for rent.


Raul Casal, Google Reviews

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