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.

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Guest favourite

The log cabin features a welcoming front entrance with a wide staircase leading up to the porch. Large glass doors and windows are framed by wooden beams, allowing for natural light. Surrounding greenery complements the rustic exterior, creating a calm atmosphere.

Cabin in McDowell County

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 95 reviews

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

Top guest favourite

A covered patio features comfortable seating with plush cushions, overlooking the lake and mountains. A glass coffee table holds a decorative bowl. Scenic views of trees and water create a peaceful setting, complemented by clear blue skies and soft clouds.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

Waterfront & View + Dock, Sauna, Hot Tub*, Bonfire

Lake Barn is private waterfront home tucked nicely behind Big Island on Lake James. Spacious and light filled open floor plan main living area. 2 large covered patios with breathtaking panoramic lake and mountain views. Enjoy sunset by fire pit or on boat dock seating area. Perfect location on the lake: Bear Creek Marina & Restaurant is 5 min boat ride! Driving distance from Asheville, Biltmore, Linville. Short drive to scenic overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, local wineries and breweries

Guest favourite

The log home features a large outdoor patio with seating arranged around a fire pit, surrounded by spacious grounds. The backdrop consists of rolling hills and trees, creating a serene environment. The twilight sky casts warm hues over the neighborhood, highlighting the inviting architecture.

Cabin in Nebo

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews

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!

Top guest favourite

A charming two-story vacation home is nestled among lush greenery, featuring a stone chimney and wooden accents. A spacious deck extends from the upper level, and a set of stairs leads from the driveway to the entrance, surrounded by a natural landscape.

Cabin in Burnsville

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

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!

Guest favourite

A serene deck overlooks Lake James, with green water reflecting the natural surroundings. Two chairs frame a portable fire pit, providing a cozy seating area. Lush trees and a marina are visible in the distance, enhancing the connection to the lakefront experience.

Cabin in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Cabin with Fire Pit

Enjoy the slower pace of lake life at this cabin on Lake James. The 1-bed + loft vacation rental is a quarter-mile to the nearest swimming entrance and right next to Lake James Marina. If desired, an uncovered boat slip may be purchased separately through the marina. When you’re not out on the lake, kick back and relax on the spacious deck! Later, cozy up by the fire pit for late night s’mores before heading inside to watch a movie in bed. Cabin is fully equipped with everything you could need!

Top guest favourite

An aerial view of a spacious mountain home surrounded by lush trees and rolling hills. The house features a distinctive roof and large windows, with expansive mountain views on the horizon. The tranquil natural setting is emphasized by a serene sky, dotted with clouds.

Home in Marion

5 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews

Getaway At Grants - MTN Views

Available Now - Relax with the whole family on a peaceful mountain retreat. Located in gated community of Grants Mountain w/I-40 access. Featuring lots of natural light, open floor plan, fireplace & loft. Enjoy mountain views & cookouts on the spacious wrap around decks. Quiet location conveniently located near Black Mountain, Lake James, vineyards, hiking, waterfalls, golf & minutes to grocery store, gas, shopping. Paved roads & driveway. Firepit w/view to enjoy during fall & winter nights.

Guest favourite

A view of the serene waterway from the dock is displayed, featuring tranquil reflections of the sky and surrounding greenery. Two tiered docks are visible, with boats moored along the banks. Lush trees frame the scene against a backdrop of scattered clouds.

Home in Nebo

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviews

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

Guest favourite

A serene lakeside scene is captured from above, showcasing the private dock with a blue roof extending into the clear water. Surrounding trees provide a lush green backdrop, while a couple of boats are seen anchored nearby, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Cottage in Marion

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 23 reviews

Dockside Delight @Lake James

Dockside Delight is a charming, century-old cottage nestled into a quiet cove around the corner from Bear Creek Marina on Lake James. Distant enough for peace and quiet yet close enough by land or lake to a lively night out, food, or boat/jet ski rental. Play, swim, canoe, sunbathe and relax all day. Eat dinner on the lakeside deck and soak in the beautiful views as the sun goes down before building a campfire in the perfect fire pit. The quintessential lakefront vacation experience!

Guest favourite

A cozy cabin is set against a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage. The wooden structure features a welcoming front porch with a railing, surrounded by lush greenery and decorative plants. A gravel road leads up to the cabin, enhancing its secluded charm.

Cabin in Marion

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 50 reviews

Cozy Secluded Mountain Cabin—Peaceful & Quiet

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.

Top guest favourite

A spacious lakefront home is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flower beds. A large deck extends from the house, providing outdoor seating options. Steps lead down to a grassy area with lounge chairs, while the nearby landscape features trees and pathways that invite exploration.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 18 reviews

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.

Top guest favourite

A charming wooden cabin is nestled among lush greenery, featuring a set of external wooden stairs leading to a balcony. The balcony is adorned with seating, inviting relaxation while surrounded by nature. Trees and shrubs provide a natural privacy screen.

Guesthouse in Nebo

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviews

Tamarca Hollow, A Nature Retreat

Escape the noise of your everyday world at our National Wildlife Federation Certified Habitat! Your space is a 700 sf, 1 bedroom (queen bed), 1 bath area above (exterior stairs) our garage. We have a gravel, long, steep driveway (AWD\FWD ARE RECOMMENDED) & we’re tucked in down at the bottom of a 10 acre forest. No internet, wifi or tv service, but we guarantee you a better connection to nature! Unplug, disconnect and take in, savor the magick that is Tamarca Hollow!

Guest favourite

A modern kitchen features wooden cabinetry and a spacious countertop, surrounded by lush green plants. Stainless steel appliances are present, and a wooden dining table with seating for four offers a comfortable dining space. Large windows bring in natural light, highlighting the warm wood interior.

Cabin in Nebo

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 34 reviews

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 400 square foot deck with a beautiful view of the lake.