
Vacation rentals with lake access in McDowell County
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Top-rated lake-access accommodations in McDowell County
Guests agree: these lake-access accommodations are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Luxury Family Cabin | Hot Tub, Pond + Game Room!
Welcome to Woodland Hills Lodge! Experience an epic getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains when you book this beautiful log cabin where you'll be enveloped by the soothing scent of swiss pine and crisp mountain air. The cabin boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, hot tub, game room and private fishing pond! Situated in a quiet gated community with access to the communal playground. You'll enjoy the peacefulness of the location while being in close proximity to the conveniences of downtown Marion, NC

Scenic Serenity!
Welcome to our Lovely Mountain Getaway. This log home has everything you are looking for; an amazing view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spacious open floor plan, wifi, HOT TUB, games galore, and more. Over 3,000 sq ft. 4 bedrooms (K,K,Q,F) and 3.5 baths you will have plenty of space to lounge, relax, and enjoy yourself. Soak in the incredible sunsets off the back deck. Gated community that offers privacy, security, and a community lake where you can swim, fish, grill and hike! No Parties allowed!

Treetops Lodge Cabin Private Mountain Hideaway
Wake up and enjoy panoramic views on the expansive deck of Treetops Lodge. This exceptional vacation home, located in the exclusive Mt. Mitchell Golf Course Community, surrounds you with natural beauty yet provides every comfort you could ask for. Treetops Lodge is ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers who appreciate well-appointed lodging and a gorgeous location at a great price. And yes, Treetops is pet friendly so your well-behaved dog is welcome too, with prior approval. R&R awaits!

Earth Pod at Wunderland Resort
The Earth Element Pod grounds guests in the nurturing embrace of nature. Strength, stability, and harmony come together in this one-of-a-kind custom glamping retreat. Nestled among the trees, this handcrafted sanctuary blends canvas, wood, and stone, featuring a plush king-sized bed, double bed in loft & a cozy lounge space. An inviting outdoor area encourages relaxation, while its close proximity to the bathhouse, communal kitchens, games, and wellness amenities ensures comfort and connection.

The Overlook at Lake James
This new build is tucked away on Lake James in a gated community. This charming two-story retreat offers four bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, a walkout basement and two spacious decks. For the adventurous, there's a steep path (yes, it's steep but worth the effort) to a private dock, where you can fish or simply enjoy the stunning views. Whether you’re on the water, exploring nearby hiking trails or lounging on the back deck, this Lake James haven is the perfect place for a quiet getaway.

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!

Lake Life w/ Luxury! 2-Tier Dock
New 3600 sq ft home! 2 tier dock w/ views, diving platform, paddle board & kayaks. Sunset on dock or sunrise while fishing. 2 Masters on main. Gameroom, wet bar, on level 2. Coffee on huge deck or gas grill, cornhole, or firepit on patio. Wifi down to the dock. Bring own boat & dock or owner has jetski, boat rental options. Quick boat ride to Marina/deep water no wake cove. Gated community in The Arbor. Kitchen fully stocked w/ air fryer, 2 coffee makers, icemaker… trash bags, TP provided

The Narai - A Mermaid Houseboat on Lake James, NC
The Mermaid Houseboats roam the waters of Lake James in NC, with beautiful views of the Blueridge Mountains and sandy beaches to pull ashore. Amenities include: Convenience kitchen (pump sink, coffee maker) Propane grill Sofa (double bed) Table (booth seating folds into a single bed) Capacity to sleep 2-3 adults or family Large front deck for entertaining Generator provides electric AC (run by generator) Bed linens provided Marine toilet *Born 1988 or later boating license required.

Lake James Cozy Cabin
Waterfront on Lake James, this cozy cabin feels like your favorite pair of Blue Jeans. Located right next to Lake James Marina, it’s the best waterfront value on the lake. Three queen beds offer a variety of sleeping options. This is a small cabin and the second floor has a low ceiling height. Only a 1/4 mile drive to the entrance of Lake James State Park. Relax in the hammock or watch TV on the 500 square foot deck with a beautiful view of the lake. Best deck on the lake!

Cozy Secluded Cabin | Private Pond & Fireplace
Tucked away at the end of a long, quiet road, this private cabin overlooks a small pond and is surrounded by peaceful woods and mountain views. The world slows down here. Birds sing. Mornings are quiet. Nearby hiking trails await when you’re ready. We custom-built this cabin as a place to escape everyday noise, unwind, and recharge. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel your shoulders drop. If you’re craving rest, connection, and a little romance, this cabin was built just for you.

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.

4BR 3.5 BA Lakefront Mountain Getaway
West-facing lakefront gem nestled in a beautiful cove on Lake James makes for the perfect family getaway! Stunning home that provides a serene setting for relaxing and recreation! Sip coffee on one of 2 wrap around decks, or head to lakeside gazebo or large 2 level aluminum dock with amazing views of Dobson Knob! Enjoy kayaks and paddle boards by day and stone fire pit at sunset! Close proximity to Marion, Morganton, and many hiking trails, this property has it all!
Popular amenities for McDowell County lake-access rentals
Lake-access house rentals

Lake James Deep Water Cove, Screen Porch & Kayaks!

Cleanest Lake in NC | Lakefront Getaway

Lake James Waterfront with Dock, Pool, and Kayaks!

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Lakefront Escape | Dock Access and Mountain Views!

Quiet Lakefront Home with Private Dock

Lake James Retreat: Large Private Lakefront Home

Lakefront, private cove w/ creek
Other vacation rentals with lake access

Lake James, North Carolina waterfront home.

Non-smoking private room on the lake

Retreat: Fast WiFi, Hot Tub, Mtns, & Nature Trails

Lakefront Roundhouse tucked away in the mountains

Lake James Launchpad

Luxe Mountain Home Near Ridgecrest & Asheville!

"THE EXCLUSIVE MOUNTAIN RETREAT ON LAKE JAMES!"

The Squirrel's Nest
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- Rentals with lake access North Carolina
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- Pisgah National Forest
- Beech Mountain Ski Resort
- Tweetsie Railroad
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline
- Appalachian Ski Mtn
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Max Patch
- Grandfather Mountain
- River Arts District
- Chimney Rock State Park
- Land of Oz
- Lake Lure Beach and Water Park
- Grandfather Mountain State Park
- Lake James State Park
- Elk River Club
- Banner Elk Winery
- Tryon International Equestrian Center
- Mount Mitchell State Park
- Linville Land Harbor
- Jump Off Rock
- Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville
- Biltmore House
- Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
- Things to do McDowell County
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