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

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

A wooden deck with a picnic table, a view of a lake, and trees in the background. - "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views (Big Bay)
A bedroom with a bed, a desk with a computer, a ceiling fan, and a large window overlooking a lake. - "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views (Big Bay)
A room with a wooden floor, a bookshelf, a sliding glass door leading to an outdoor deck, and a window with a view of a lake and trees. - "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views (Big Bay)
Property grounds - "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views (Big Bay)
A wooden cabin interior with a leather sofa, a television, and a telescope. - "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views (Big Bay)
"The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views provides amenities, such as a firepit and laundry facilities. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space

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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 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
  • Washing machine

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

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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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets

Children and extra beds

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

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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

About the area

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. Power boating and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby. Visit our Big Bay travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Big Bay
Map
Big Bay, MI

What's nearby

  • A coastal landscape with rocky terrain, pine trees, and a calm sea with distant islands.
    Sugarloaf Mountain
    29 min drive - 44.8 km
  • A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs and dense greenery.
    Presque Isle Park
    39 min drive - 56.8 km
  • Lake Independence
    7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • beach near Perkins Park
    15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Northern Michigan University
    35 min drive - 53.5 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • Lumberjack Tavern
    7 min walk
  • Thunder Bay Inn
    3 min walk
  • Hungry Hollow
    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).

How much is parking at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

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 within a 15-minute walk of Lake Independence and Lake Superior. Little Presque Isle Recreation Area and Hidden Beach are also within 25 miles (40 km).

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

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 45 out of 46 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 46 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 46 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan M.

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

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Randolph B.

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is beautiful and had everything a person needs to relax and enjoy their vacation.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent location. Very clean and great place to relax!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dictator_tots

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Warren S.

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

Great escape

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

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kerry D.

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

Wonderful Place

This cabin had everything we wanted and more! The property owner was so welcoming and ensured that we enjoyed our stay. It really felt like home! It was such a wonderful place to watch the sunsets and enjoy a relaxing quiet place. We would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a great escape in the UP!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

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
Verified

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