Vacation rentals with a kayak in McDowell County

Outdoor Living - Paddle Boards & Mountain Views

Nestled in Shortoff Mountain above Lake James, this luxury log home is a short walk to the Wolf Pit Trailhead that winds up into the Linville Gorge. The cabin sits above Lake James with a 3 mile drive to the public boat launch. The 2700 sq ft open floor plan was designed to host 3 families with 3 en suite bedrooms, a bunk room, a loft with a Trundle bed (2 twin mattresses), a full kitchen, beautiful living areas with comfortable furniture, and a game room with Pacman, Foosball, and Air Hockey.

Mtn Retreat, River Access, Fire Pit, WiFi, Grill!

Welcome to Spirit of the River Cabin. Escape to serenity at our charming river cabin nestled deep in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Relax by the fire pit under a blanket of stars, immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance while the river flows gently nearby. Inside, cozy comfort awaits with a well-appointed living space, fully-equipped kitchen, two inviting bedrooms and two full baths. Perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature, this retreat promises an unforgettable getaway.

Lakefront | Hot tub, Fire Pit, Games, & Movie Room

Welcome to our Lake James retreat - where every detail allows for connection, joy, and unforgettable moments for your family and friends! Tucked into a peaceful cove at one end of the lake, it has one of the easiest water access on the Lake James shoreline. No endless staircases or tricky descents to the waterfront - just a gentle stroll across the wide grassy lawn to your private dock. Just 10 minutes to Marion, 45 minutes to Asheville, and less than 2 hours to Charlotte or to Winston-Salem.

Close to Lake James- The Lake is better than ever!

Post-Storm Peace: Lake James is Safe for Fun and Relaxation! Relax on the stylish covered deck and enjoy stunning views. Conveniently located between Morganton and Marion, you'll have access to unique restaurants, shopping, wineries, and breweries. Perfect for multiple families, with a full gym, work station, and all the comforts of home. Check-in at 3:00 pm Check-out at 10:00 am. Guests must be 25 years or older to book. No weddings/parties Experience the perfect retreat at LakeWays!

Lake James Private Dock Quiet Cove Starlink

Our house is the last on a quiet "no outlet" street on one of the best hidden coves on Lake James. It’s only a couple hundred yards to the main channel and big Mountain View’s and sunsets. Our home is comfortable and expansive. A place to relax, fish, swim, use our 4 kayaks, or tie up your own boat or pontoon rental for your stay. Black Bear, Hidden Cove, or Canal Bridge are the closest boat launches. We now have lightening fast Star-link internet for remote workers and your entertainment!

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Welcome to Loving Lake Life – Your Perfect Lake Retreat, Just 15 Minutes from Morganton! Nestled on the waterfront, our home offers easy access to the water with a short stone path leading to our private dock. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests and comes fully equipped with two kayaks, two paddleboards, a cozy fire pit, beautiful porches, a fun-filled game room, and more! Thoughtfully designed with all the amenities you need, this space is the ideal setting for your next getaway!

Views-Hot Tub-Fire Pit-25 min. to AVL

Escape to our charming 700 sq. ft. mountain retreat overlooking Jacks Mountain Preserve - an old golf course turned nature preserve. Perfect for small families, couples or friends, this cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features modern comforts and decor, 4 beds total, a fully equipped (and then some) kitchen, and reliable internet. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views by day and stargazing at night. Pet-friendly, with clean water and nearby nature trails, it’s ideal for relaxation or adventure.

Lakeside Home w Mtn Views & Dock

Relax--Zen inspired getaway just steps from Lake James. A peaceful courtyard welcomes you at the entrance. Glass doors surround the entire house, revealing lake and mountain views. The open floor plan is newly renovated with bamboo flooring, new kitchen and updated bathrooms. A large covered deck with dining table overlooks the lake with great views. The kitchen comes fully equipped , including a gas grill on the deck! Wood burning fireplace in great room for cozy fall evenings.

Lakefront, private cove w/ creek

Now pet friendly. A perfect waterfront playground to forget your worries while immersed in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Direct water access to Lake James for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. Enjoy Dales Creek, which feeds mountain water into the lake. Whether swimming, paddling, fishing, or wading in the creek, there is no shortage of wildlife and flora to enjoy. Picnic and BBQ at the pavilion and relax by bonfires in the evenings.

New Waterfront Home | Amazing Views of Lake James

This brand-new house has Panoramic views of Lake James and the Western North Carolina mountains. Enjoy the views from almost every room in the home. Have a seat under our wrap around porch and take it all in. Enjoy family and friends on our screened in back porch or enjoy some smores at the fire pit in Adirondack chairs. Everyone will have a blast in the basement with a ping pong table, shuffleboard, or sit back and watch the game. Plenty of room for the whole family!

Enjoy Fall - Lake James Cottage with Lakeview- 3/2

Enjoy Lake James at our lakeview cottage just footsteps from the most serene cove on the lake. Prepare your meals in the fully stocked, large kitchen or have a BBQ and enjoy the beautiful surroundings on two decks overlooking the lake. During the day, cruise the lake with our kayaks, or bring your own Standup Paddle Board or small boat--the cove has its own private boat launch. Lake James is the perfect getaway to enjoy the fall colors of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Sail Away Suite

Enjoy morning views with coffee, evening drinks on the balcony, starlight at the fire pit and lazy days of swimming, picnicking, kayaking, or fishing from our private dock, no boats. Access to the community pool is just minutes away. Our area offers lots of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, rock climbing, tubing, water sports, and nearby boat rentals for a day out on the clear, crisp, water.