Vacation rentals in Lake James

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Lake James

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Top guest favorite
A welcoming sign is positioned in the foreground, with a clear view of a modern cabin surrounded by lush greenery. A swimming pool is visible, flanked by loungers and steps leading into the inviting water, under a bright blue sky.
Cottage in Morganton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 201 reviews

"Paraíso Encontrado" Paradise Found

Watch the deer grazing in the woods as you sit on the wrap around deck of this modern cabin nestled at Lake James, NC. Enjoy the pool while you cookout on the gas grill, or hike the new Fonta Flora trail nearby. A 10 minute drive to:three marinas, two wineries, & two state parks. Enjoy biking, hiking, boating, snow/water skiing, fishing, enjoying nature & tranquility. Convenient to Lake James, Morganton, Table Rock, Shortoff Mtn., Linville Gorge, Little Switzerland, Blue Ridge Pkwy. & Marion.

Guest favorite
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 favorite
A fire pit surrounded by rustic wooden seating is illuminated by a warm glow from the flames. In the background, a geodesic dome is nestled among trees on a raised deck, creating a serene outdoor ambiance.
Dome in Union Mills
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 258 reviews

TreeTop Dome at Carolina Domes Mt Views w Hot Tub

🌿 Luxury Glamping in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Escape to our 30-foot geodesic dome, perched on a sprawling 2000 sq ft deck surrounded by nature. Soak in your private jacuzzi under the stars, unwind in a plush queen bed, and enjoy a cozy loft with two single beds—perfect for families or friends. The dome includes a fully equipped kitchenette, BBQ grill, and all the modern comforts of home with the charm of outdoor living. Book now for a one-of-a-kind experience where peace meets adventure!

Top guest favorite
The charming exterior of a cottage is highlighted, featuring light gray siding and white trim. A welcoming pathway of stepping stones leads to a deck, furnished with a dining table and chairs. Surrounded by lush greenery, this home integrates seamlessly into the natural landscape.
Cottage in Morganton
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 169 reviews

Woodsy cottage next to Lake James

Outdoor enthusiast retreat, mountain biking and hiking heaven! Relax with the whole family at this peaceful, brand new adorable cottage nestled in the woods right next to the Fonta Flora trail. Jump onto the trail for hiking or biking winding around scenic Lake James for 30+ miles of beauty or walk 1 mile to the county beach for some splashing and sun bathing. Enjoy the evenings on the patio or around the fire pit, BBQ & picnic table. 5 mins away from Mimosa landing for boat launch.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Morganton
5 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

The Little Cabin near Lake James

The Little Cabin is a 100+ year old, tastefully renovated cabin nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mts. It is a perfect spot for a personal retreat or romantic getaway, tucked away in the woods. The surrounding area offers stunning scenery, abundant hiking trails and opportunities to explore the beauty of nature. Guests may bring a boat, with several places close by to launch, and plenty of space to park at the cabin. Escape, unwind, and make memories at The Little Cabin!!

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Nebo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews

Super cozy Lake James house glamping at its finest

Right in the middle of everything at Lake James! Across the street from the actual lake, close to the Fonta Flora hiking trails, 3 miles from 2 public boat launches, minutes from the beach at the state park and 3 miles to Fonta Flora brewery. This little lake house has everything you need for an amazing weekend kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, boating or just hanging out on the large screened porch. Top-notch furnishings and beautifully decorated with a lake theme.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor seating area features several black adirondack chairs arranged around a stone fire pit. Lush greenery and towering trees surround the space, while mountains shrouded in mist create a serene backdrop, enhancing the sense of tranquility.
Cabin in Barnardsville
5 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

Appalachian Rainforest Oasis

Your own private mountain retreat, close enough to Asheville to enjoy its amenities but far enough to feel remote. Nestled within a 60-acre private reserve in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, offering you the best of both worlds. Bordered by two trout streams and an immense network of trails right on your doorstep. After a day of adventure, relax and rejuvenate in our hot tub with a glass of wine, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the nearby streams.

Top guest favorite
A charming cabin is positioned near a creek, featuring a wooden deck that leads to the entryway. The scenic surroundings include trees and open grassy areas, with glimpses of outdoor seating and a grill visible on the deck. The peaceful water reflects the natural setting.
Cabin in Morganton
5 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews

Secluded Creekside Cabin in Morganton - hot tub

Morganton and Lenoir are open for visitors post Helene. Tucked down the side of the mountain on 3.43 acres with private access to Upper Creek, relax and unwind in our family. Only 7 miles to the Brown Mountain OHV trails (34 miles of off roading trails) and Brown Mountain Beach Resort, 9 miles to Upper Creek Falls, 12 miles to Wilson’s Creek, 13.5 miles to Hawksbill Mountain, 17 miles to Linville Falls, 18 miles to Table Rock, 24 miles to Grandfather Mountain.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a custom-built home is featured, showcasing an angular roof design and large windows. A spacious deck wraps around the house, illuminated by strategically placed lights. Lush greenery surrounds the property, enhancing the natural setting.
Home in Nebo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

Stylish Retreat with Views, Gym & Prime Location!

Wake up to Blue Ridge Mountain views from a stunning A-Frame retreat. This is a custom-built 4-bedroom is the most well-equipped vacation rental near Lake James. Spend mornings on the water or golf course, then relax by the fire pit or in the game room with a 70" TV. Enjoy a full gym, bunk room, and spacious kitchen. 14 mins to Marion Lake Club Golf Course, 5 mins to Bear Creek Marina, 10 mins to Lake James State Park. Perfect for families and group getaways.

Top guest favorite
A cozy outdoor space is illuminated by warm string lights, creating a relaxed atmosphere. A fire pit is surrounded by four chairs, and a cabin can be seen in the background nestled among the trees. Windows glow softly, hinting at the inviting interior.
Guesthouse in Nebo
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

Boat House Cottage - Hiker’s retreat in Linville

Unplug and relax at our Boat House Cottage nestled near the Linville river at the foot of the Linville Gorge. This cozy cottage makes for a great home base for adventurous trips to Western NC. Easy access to hiking, biking, and paddling. A stocked kitchenette allows for making adventure snacks, or take the short drive to Fonta Flora Brewery. The king bed and comfy futon allow for post-adventure relaxing, outdoor fire pit available or cool off in the river.

Top guest favorite
A bright and airy living space features large windows that invite natural light. A comfortable couch and side chairs are arranged around a wooden coffee table, with soft decorative elements enhancing the calm ambiance. Light-colored walls and flooring create a serene atmosphere.
Treehouse in Old Fort
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 767 reviews

Luxurious Secluded Romantic Treehouse with Hot Tub

***2020 #1 Airbnb Most Wish-listed property in North Carolina*** Take a short walk on well lit path to an oasis in the woods. A swinging bridge welcomes you to a quiet, cozy home in the trees, surrounded by native Laurel and abundant hardwoods. Listen to the birds while having your morning coffee on the deck or relax in the hot tub below. The home is located on 14 acres. Old Fort is 10 minutes to Black Mountain and 20 minutes to Asheville.

Top guest favorite
A mountaintop log cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a spacious deck with seating. A gently sloping walkway leads to the entrance. The expansive landscape offers distant mountain and valley views under a clear sky.
Cabin in Bostic
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

Spectacular Mountain Top Cozy Log Cabin

Find solace at Duke’s Hideaway, a cozy mountaintop retreat. Our gorgeous log cabin home is finely appointed with rustic chic furnishings and includes everything you need for a wonderful vacation. 2 Bed/ 2 Bath cabin + large lofted space overlooking the South Mountains and facing East. Amazing mountain and valley views from the huge deck and yard area. Sweeping views of the mountains from lofted space, living & dining rooms.

Popular amenities for Lake James vacation rentals

All about Lake James

Nestled in the lush Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Lake James is a large reservoir and recreation hub known for its glorious boating, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Located in the center of Lake James State Park, its clear waters are fed by the Linville and Catawba Rivers, which span just over 6,800 acres and 150 miles of shoreline.

There’s also plenty to do here outdoors without getting your toes wet: Lake James includes an extensive network of trails, with dozens of miles of paths reserved for hiking and mountain biking. Fragrant forested ridges blanketed in hardwoods, pine, and hemlocks encompass the reservoir, while blooming wildflowers, including passionflower, cardinal flower, pink lady slipper, and Jack-in-the-pulpit, sprinkle color into the dense greenery. If you’re looking to spot critters, this rich landscape is home to diverse wildlife, including rabbits, muskrats, deer, and gray foxes.

What are the top things to do in Lake James?

Linville Gorge Wilderness

The Linville Gorge Wilderness stretches across 12,000 acres and is part of the Pisgah National Forest. Here you’ll find premier hiking with exhilarating overlooks at Linville Falls, Hawksbill Mountain, Chimneys Hike, and Table Rock Mountain. The wilderness of the Linville Gorge is home to a diversity of flora and fauna, including orchids, wild indigo, sand myrtle, owls, hawks, squirrels, and turkeys.

Paddy’s Creek Trail

Paddy’s Creek Trail is a relatively easy hike that runs along the Lake James shoreline to the mouth of Paddy’s Creek. Meandering through an old-growth forest and a few rolling sections, the mostly flat path provides a fun way to take in the stunning scenery. It also connects to other trails should you be eager to continue your exploration.

Yellow Fork Falls

On the Yellow Fork of Paddy’s Creek, you’ll find a spectacular hidden gem — a picturesque 30-foot waterfall and an enchanting swimming hole brimming with crystal clear water. A dip in the water serves as a fun reward after the 1.8-mile hike it takes to lead you there. The striking horizontal rock formations that line the waterfall create a beautiful cascading effect as the water moves down the rocky base and into the swimming hole.