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

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Exterior
Exterior
Exterior
Exterior
Exterior detail

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
Big Bay, MI
  • Sugarloaf Mountain
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Northern Michigan University
    ‪37 min drive‬
  • Presque Isle Park
    ‪41 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen

About this property

"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
Premier Host
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
WARNING: Dam and fast flowing river on property
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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

About the area

Big Bay

Located in Big Bay, this holiday home is on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Superior and Little Presque Isle Recreation Area. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Big Bay, MI

What's nearby

  • Sugarloaf Mountain - 30 min drive - 34.6 km
  • Northern Michigan University - 37 min drive - 41.9 km
  • UP Health System - Marquette - 41 min drive - 44.0 km
  • Presque Isle Park - 41 min drive - 43.6 km
  • Marquette Mountain - 44 min drive - 48.8 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Hungry Hollow Cafe - ‬12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Lake Superior and within 25 miles (40 km) of Little Presque Isle Recreation Area and Hidden Beach. Sugarloaf Mountain and Noquemanon North Trails Trailhead are also within 25 miles (40 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

brad d.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely breathtaking

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

10/10 Excellent

NAB C.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great escape

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

10/10 Excellent

Anne S.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

About the host

Hosted by Joyce Johnson Iwinski

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Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests