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

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your current months are October, 2024 and November, 2024.
October 2024
November 2024

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

Aerial view
Dining
3 bedrooms, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Dryer
    Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Big Bay, MI
  • Sugarloaf Mountain
    30 min drive
  • Northern Michigan University
    37 min drive
  • Superior Dome
    39 min drive

Room options

About the area

Big Bay

On lake.At this Big Bay vacation home, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Lake Superior and 20 miles (32 km) of Little Presque Isle Recreation Area. Hidden Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain are also within 25 miles (40 km).
View more Vacation homes in Big BayOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Sugarloaf Mountain - 30 min drive
  • Northern Michigan University - 37 min drive
  • Superior Dome - 39 min drive
  • Presque Isle Park - 41 min drive
  • Marquette Mountain - 44 min drive

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

Property amenities

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Paper towels
  • Coffee/tea maker

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

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

Living spaces

  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Books
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Kayak on site
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Power boating nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Marina nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Fishing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadbolt lock
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. Onsite 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 each accommodation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

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

10/10 Excellent

Anne S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful, Wonderful, Beautiful
This property is in an excellent location and offers many amenities. This was my second year and I have already reserved for 2023. The description of the property is accurate and does not disappoint in any way. Five stars all the way; the owner is responsive and extremely thoughtful.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carly H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
The property was better than what was in the description and the pictures!! This is our second year renting on Lake “I”, but I have been coming to this lake since I was a small child and this is the most fun I have had in my adult life. Thank you for letting us enjoy your little piece of heaven!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erin & Phillip H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome site for family vacation in the UP
Beautiful home in a stunning location! Lots of space inside and out for our family of 6. Kitchen is well-stocked for cooking & baking. We had a good mix of days spent at the property, enjoying the lake & river, and day trips to area attractions. We felt like family; the hosts are generous people.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julie M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Summer Vacation
We enjoyed fishing, hiking, kayaking, and s’mores by the campfire. The property was picturesque, and the host very gracious. A great summer vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chris T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic getaway! Beautiful property.
We had a wonderful stay at the Dam House. The property is beautiful and the house was very clean upon arrival. Joyce is a wonderful host and she even gave us access to her private beach on Lake Superior. Use the available kayaks and be sure to kayak up the river from Lake Independence to Lake Superior. The Dam House is equipped with all the essentials you would need in the kitchen and elsewhere. Don't expect blazing fast wi-fi but that probably isn't why you are heading to the UP to vacation anyway. We visited Munising and did some hiking around Pictured Rock and also headed to Houghton and toured the Quincy Mine, Much to do, just plan on driving a bit. I hope we can return to the Dam House someday! Thanks, Joyce!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely place
Pleasant setting near wonderful beaches, hikes and natural attractions. The house is clean with beautiful woodworking, plenty of quality cookware, dishes and glassware. Look carefully at the property description as the layout is a bit odd: a queen room separated from the living room by a folding screen, and no doors on the upstairs bedrooms. Not a problem for us but be aware. The host was wonderful, making sure we had 3 bikes and communicating promptly. Altogether a fine place to vacation!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kyle T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Dam House
Beautiful location by the Iron River Dam on Lake Independence. As a group we have been going to Lake Indy for 14 years. This is our first time at the Dam House and it totally exceeded our expectations. The BEST equipped rental ever and the fishing was very good. Comfortable beds and we just couldn't be happier!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022