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

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A wooden deck with a picnic table, a view of a lake, and trees in the background.
A cabin by a lake with a stone path leading to it, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.
A wooden cabin interior with a leather sofa, a television, and a telescope.
A bedroom with a bed, a desk with a computer, a ceiling fan, and a large window overlooking a lake.
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.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Big Bay, MI
  • Place, Lake Independence
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, beach near Perkins Park
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Northern Michigan University
    ‪35 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Big Bay

This vacation home is a short stroll from Lake Superior and Lake Independence. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
View more Vacation Homes in Big BayOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Independence - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • beach near Perkins Park - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Northern Michigan University - 35 min drive - 33.3 miles
  • Presque Isle Park - 40 min drive - 35.3 miles
  • Marquette Mountain - 46 min drive - 38.9 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Thunder Bay Inn - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Lumberjack Tavern - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Hungry Hollow - ‬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!
The vacation home is heated and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a desk.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets 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

  • Smoking not allowed

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

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • 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
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
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do close to this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Powell, a short 12-minute walk from Lake Superior and also 9 minutes on foot from Lake Independence.

Is there parking available at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

Is "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside vacation home include a smart TV and a kitchen in each house, and some feature lake view.

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

No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home include breakfast service?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Does "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views have connecting rooms available?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?

Yes, every house at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views comes with a patio and some offer lake views.

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 46 out of 47 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 47 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 47 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was absolutely beautiful! Joyce is the best host ever. If you like small friendly towns, I would recommend this one.I give The Dam House a 12!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was perfect! Not only was Joyce a perfect host, the house was immaculately clean, quiet, and just overall a very pleasant home to stay in. The view you could not beat! The area is so lovely as well. Thank you Joyce, this was one of our favorite memories!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

8/10 Good

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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