"The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views
House in Big Bay, MI
6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
About this house rental
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!
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!
Amenities
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Map of Big Bay, MI
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Reviews
8.0
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.
10.0
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.
10.0
Every room is pleasant and functional.
It is obvious that the owners of this Vbro has taken care of the home inside and out.
10.0
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.
10.0
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.
10.0
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!
10.0
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!!!!!
10.0
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.
10.0
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.
10.0
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.
10.0
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!!
10.0
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!
10.0
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!
10.0
Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. We shall be back one day! Everything was perfect.
10.0
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
10.0
Hosts were incredible, views were amazing!
10.0
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!
10.0
A really beautiful place that exceeded our expectations.
10.0
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.
10.0
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!!
10.0
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.
10.0
We enjoyed fishing, hiking, kayaking, and s’mores by the campfire. The property was picturesque, and the host very gracious. A great summer vacation.
10.0
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!
10.0
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!
10.0
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!!
10.0
DAM PERFECT LAKE SUPERIOR GET AWAY
The Dam House was a perfect location for getting away but close enough to shopping and other activities. The hosts were very gracious and wonderful. We were given access to their other property that has a beautiful, secluded beach on Big Bay of Lake Superior that we really enjoyed. There was access to kayaks and fishing the lake and river below the dam directly from this property. The house amenities were ample and very comfortable. Our only regret is that we didn't have more time there. We could have stayed a month.
10.0
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!
10.0
Changing seasons!
Bet vacation property I have ever stayed in. We were impressed with the kitchen and dining areas and great views from every side. Hosts were awesome and very helpful with many amenities.
10.0
Nice Quiet Get Away
Great place to get away for a while. Many outdoor activities to due in the area. We mostly enjoy hiking (looking for waterfalls), walks on the beaches, and having a bonfire at night. Nice sunsets. Quiet.
10.0
Amazing
I’ve been vacationing in Big Bay every summer for most of my life, and this location and property was lovely. From amenities and west facing location, to the kindness and generosity of the owner made our week extremely special. I’ve rented for two weeks next summer. You won’t be lacking anything at this property, this went well above my expectations. Thank you Joyce.
10.0
Beautiful home beautiful setting
This is a beautiful place with lots to do on the property, such as fishing, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. If you are looking to relax, this is the ideal place for that as well. We found beautiful Lake Superior beaches nearby and some UTV trails. We enjoyed visiting some local breweries in Marquette and hiking in the area. This is a beautiful area and this is an ideal place to enjoy it.
10.0
Family vacation 2021
We had a wonderful time! Joyce offered so many amenities, I.E paddle boards, kayaks, side by side, and a private beach to Lake Superior! And so much more! There is no need to travel unless you want to! The Thunder Bay Inn , in Big Bay, offered good food and drinks! The menu seemed endless. Our family of six, four adults and two kids, 16 and 11 had a fabulous time! The one down side was there were ALOT of spiders! Despite the spiders the Dam house was clean, spacious, and beautiful! I would hands down recommend staying here!
10.0
Spectacular lake front cabin, it doesn't get better than this
My wife and I visited with our 10 year old son and pet dog for five nights and had a fantastic time. This location is stunning, you are right on Lake Independence, a perfect fishing lake full of Walleye and Smallmouth Bass. There are several kayaks we used for fishing that were in great condition. We caught many fish without having to paddle far from shore including a walleye that we cooked up. There is a dam with a waterfall right next to the cabin and the river it feeds runs along the property. You can paddle this river down to Lake Superior. Loons, Bald Eagles, Sandhill Cranes and many other birds were spotted. Bikes were provided for us to explore the area which is private and not overly developed. During the week in June we hardly saw another person and there were only a couple boats on the lake fishing. Joyce was an amazing host and went out of her way to provide us with all the things we needed to enjoy our stay. The house has plenty of room for everyone and is very clean and recently updated. The kitchen and eating area is amazing as you look out at the dam and waterfall and hear the sound of the water. Both my wife and I love to cook and the kitchen is fantastic. The knives were sharp and there was lots of high end cookware and equipment to prepare meals. We've stayed at many rental spots and this kitchen was by far the best equipped and fun to cook in. The internet is slow, we have Verizon and had good cell phone reception. It really is a fabulous and unique location and we hope to return again soon.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Big Bay?
The average price for a rental in Big Bay is R 4,073 per night. This rental is R 928 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at "The Dam House" Lake and River Front Home with Beautiful Sunset Views?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and laundry.
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