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"The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views

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Property grounds
Interior
Dining
3 bedrooms, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Big Bay, MI
  • Northern Michigan University
    ‪47 min drive‬
  • Superior Dome
    ‪48 min drive‬
  • Presque Isle Park
    ‪56 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Big Bay

At this holiday home, you'll be 1 km (0.6 mi) from Lake Superior and 28.6 km (17.8 mi) from Little Presque Isle Recreation Area. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a washer/dryer and free WiFi. .You can enjoy Smart televisions with a DVD player, and home features 2 bathrooms, a patio and a coffee/tea maker. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a TV and a hairdryer are also available. .In proximity to this Big Bay holiday home you'll find Northern Michigan University.
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What's nearby

  • Northern Michigan University - 47 min drive - 53.2 km
  • Superior Dome - 48 min drive - 54.3 km
  • UP Health System - Marquette - 51 min drive - 56.1 km
  • Marquette Harbor Light - 51 min drive - 56.1 km
  • Presque Isle Park - 56 min drive - 56.5 km

Getting around

  • Marquette, MI (MQT-Sawyer Intl.) - 64 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hungry Hollow Cafe - ‬12 min walk

About this property

Entire place

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

"The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views

Clean, cozy, lake and riverfront house at the end of a private road. Enjoy the most beautiful sunsets on Lake Independence from the comfort of your living room or front deck. The "Dam House" is situated on the Lake Independence dam and the source of the Iron River, surrounding this unique and beautiful property on three sides by water. The Dam house is a 10 minute drive around Lake Independence to the small town of Big Bay and 45 minutes from Marquette, MI.

In the summer you can spend hours kayaking or swimming in Lake Independence, fishing in the lake or Iron River, biking, hiking, and having lunch or fish fry in the small town of Big Bay. Lake Superior is a short bike or car ride from the Dam House that guests can enjoy as well!

The Dam House has 3 bedrooms - the master bedroom is upstairs (queen bed with en suite bathroom with shower), a queen bedroom downstairs that is connected to the living room (separated by an accordion door), and two twin beds in the upstairs loft area. It can comfortably sleep two couples or is perfect for a family of 4-6. Please note that the downstairs bed is connected to the living room and does not have a designated/ separate space! The living room with large picture windows and French doors looks out at Lake Independence while the dining room with wall to wall windows overlooks the Iron River. The kitchen is large and spacious with birds-eye maple cabinets and updated appliances.

The Dam house also features a work area/ desk, woodstove, washer and dryer, bikes, kayaks, picnic table (on deck that looks out over the lake), coolers, beach chairs, and lifejackets. We have everything you need for a perfect UP lakefront get away. We are at the end of private road in a small town at the end of County Road 550 - so please be aware as the WIFI may be a bit slower here!

Local Big Bay attractions include The Thunder Bay Inn and the Big Bay Tavern where the classic movie "Anatomy of a Murder" was filmed. Thomas Rock is a short drive from Big Bay and features a short hike that ends in views of Lake Independent and Lake Superior. Endless sand beaches and hiking trails are accessible on County Road 550 between Marquette and Big Bay.

We can't wait to share our lake retreat with you!

Property manager

Joyce Johnson Iwinski

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 private bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washer/dryer

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

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)
  • Deadbolt lock

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

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

Pets

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

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: WARNING: Dam and fast flowing river on property

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
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 deadlock
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. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

The closest beach to "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views is Hidden Beach (29.8 km).

Does "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views have a pool?

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

Is "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities, a BBQ and children's books, it's no surprise that "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

No, "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

"The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Darin S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keri F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Best introduction to the UP!

Book the stay you won't regret it! The property is gorgeous and very well kept. Joyce and Jeff are the most helpful hosts I've ever had with a booking. If you forget anything I can almost guarantee they've got you covered. They let us use their private beach area on Superior and even gave us some tips on the best fishing spots on Lake Independence. I absolutely loved having a window open to listen to the water going over the dam and stargazing with the kids was top notch. Be prepared for endless cuteness out the window, watching the multiple flocks of baby ducks and geese hunting their breakfast was the highlight each morning. Clearest water we've ever encountered and even though the fish completely avoided me, the rest of us caught trout, small mouth, large mouth, rock bass, walleye, perch, and a few fresh water mussels. The teenagers were happy with the tv channel selection and wifi speed, which clearly says something good! Lol We've already discussed returning in the future for another relaxing stay. Phoenix, the bestest good boy black lab ever, also gave this trip 5 stars.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent location. Very clean and great place to relax!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved the Dam House

A great location! We were at the Dam House for a week and really enjoyed our stay.. Took a day trip to Copper Harbor and got to see even more of the upper peninsula. It was our first visit to the area. Joyce was really helpful. Her nearby beach property was a treat. Our yellow lab loved swimming in Lake Superior and we got some nice photos of bald eagles. We did have to deal with mosquitos but repellent seemed to work well. Will definitely be back!!!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

brad d.

Liked: Cleanliness

side x side week getaway in the U.P.

The property location is spectacular. We plan to return next year to explore more of the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bobbie B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Fall Weekend

The property is beautiful with fabulous sunsets! The house works nicely for a family. Very well stocked kitchen! The setting- for fishing, fires, relaxing- is perfect! The host is very helpful!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janelle' C., Lansing

Liked: Cleanliness

Dam Good Time

We had the most excellent time staying at the dam house! The house was exactly as advertised, private, well stocked with everything we could have needed, and very cozy. The sound of the dam was soothing, perfect pairing with morning coffee. We were able to enjoy the fire pit and gorgeous stars. We enjoyed the kayaks on site, and rock hunting. Big Bay is only a 10 minute drive from the property, highly recommend Lumberjack Tavern. Very relaxed time here at the house, we’ll be back!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing Family Summer Vacation

My family had a great time staying at the Dam house. We will miss it. Everything was perfect. House is very clean. Joyce is very friendly and helps make it the best possible vacation for your family. Loved the private beach, the fishing and hiking on the nearby trails. This is a place we would return to.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alice M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Summer Vacation

This was our second trip to this location. It is so peaceful and beautiful. We had warm, sunny weather and windy, wet weather and enjoyed every minute of our stay. Thank you, Alice and Jeff.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Albert N.

Liked: Cleanliness

A view that you never tire of.

Every room is pleasant and functional. It is obvious that the owners of this Vbro has taken care of the home inside and out.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Another great stay

This was our second time at the Dam House and we had another wonderful week. Our two pups loved being able to wade and swim in the water and we enjoyed fishing, kayaking and just relaxing. We look forward to booking again next summer. Joyce is a wonderful host.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shannon R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect

We loved this house and location! We enjoyed kayaking on Lake Independence and playing in the river. The fact that we didnt have to leave the property to do it was big for me! We had everything we needed. The neighbors dogs visited daily. They are such good dogs. So sweet and seem well taken care of. Joyce was a great host and easy to get ahold of and talk to.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Our Fourth of July in the UP

We enjoyed all the Amazon views this property had to offer. The owner was very reachable with any questions.. The house had everything you could need. Kayaks were fun and we made many memories there. The house is everything described and more.. The bed downstairs very comfortable.. Thank you for your hospitality!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

james t.

Liked: Cleanliness

July 22-28 stay

My family and I and our dog stayed at the “Dam” house recently. Joyce was a great host. The house was very clean and accommodating. Fully stocked with kitchen supplies and bedroom/bath linens. They were extremely accommodating in activities that we did, including kayaking down the Iron River to Lake superior. The scenery was beautiful with great sunsets and views from around the campfire. Would definitely stay here again!!!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rudy N., Madison Heights, Mi

Liked: Cleanliness

Off the beaten path.

Where else can you view a lake from the master bedroom and living room and a waterfall leading to the Iron River from the dining room? The home is well appointed and clean. We had a ball here.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Fred G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peace and quiet

The Dam House offered the seclusion, privacy and tranquility that we were seeking. We enjoyed evening campfires, kayaking and relaxation. Joyce was kind enough to offer the use of they’re property on Lake Superior’s Big Bay. We spent a couple of days sitting on the beach and taking walks & rock hunting…on one day we didn’t see another person. The Dam House was clean and all of the amenities were as described. We would definitely consider another stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Randolph B., Grass Lake, Michigan, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

A Beautiful House on a Beautiful Lake

The Dam House is an amazingly beautiful house on a gorgeous lake. The house is beautifully furnished with attention to detail. Everything that a visitor could want for an enjoyable lakeside vacation has been provided. The surrounding area is fantastic for the appreciation of nature and photo opportunities abound, including the northern lights. We could not have asked for anything more.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great cabin on a lake!

The property was exactly as listed and better! We really enjoyed the waterfront property and enjoying the lake. Lots of hiking and things to do close to Marquette and Munsing is a must do as well. Thanks for sharing your home with us!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness

This place is amazing!

The Dam House is an amazing place to stay! Great view of the sunsets, the sounds of the water rushing over the dam, very well equipped kitchen, access to use of kayaks, UTV, and a private beach at the owner's other property just down the road. This place is just about perfect. Joyce was communicative, calling the day before we were to arrive to make sure we were on track, and able to find the place, and give directions to their private beach. This was without a doubt the quietest, most relaxing place we have stayed for vacation, and we will definitely be coming back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful experience

We had an amazing stay at the Dam House and can't wait/hope to come back soon. Everything was absolutely wonderful. Thank you Joyce for letting us enjoy your properties!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jasmin B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fairytale like setting

Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. We shall be back one day! Everything was perfect.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth F.

Liked: Cleanliness

The dam house

My kids loved this place inside and out. Kayaks and otv were a plus hard to find yes but for good reason no traffic what so ever very private
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Absolutely breathtaking

Hosts were incredible, views were amazing!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

NAB C.

Liked: Cleanliness

As great as advertised!

Wonderful hosts … tranquil and scenic location. Loved using it as a base to explore the UP (Copper Harbor to Whitefish Point). Photos don’t do it justice. Would return again!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Warren S., Brighton

Liked: Cleanliness

Great escape

A really beautiful place that exceeded our expectations.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022