Vacation rentals with lake access in McDowell County

Find and book unique lake access rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated lake access rentals in McDowell County

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Superhost

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, 146 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!

Superhost

A two-level outdoor space featuring a wooden structure with stairs leading up to a spacious deck. Picnic tables and a seating area are positioned underneath. Large windows on the building's exterior allow for natural light. A kayak is visible nearby, indicating a focus on outdoor activities.

Home in Nebo

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviews

Lake James Launchpad

Come jump in the lake! Easy access to adventure and nature at the family-friendly Lake James launchpad! Just 45 minutes to Asheville. Lounge on a spacious deck with mountain views and watch golfers on Marion LC. Fast Wi-Fi and all the comforts of home! Public beach/lake access at Paddy's Creek. Hike and bike the best trails in the region on the MTS trail and Linville Gorge. Brewery five minutes away, bistro 100 yards away. Many marinas in the area rent boats for the day, as well! Dogs welcome.

Guest favorite

An aerial view of a spacious mountain retreat is presented, showcasing the multi-level wooden structure surrounded by lush greenery. A large wrap-around deck is visible, along with a landscaped fire pit area featuring seating, providing an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and gathering.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 14 reviews

Serenity Summit Mountain Retreat Grandview Peaks

Escape to Serenity Summit, a stunning mountain retreat. 4-bedroom, 4-full bath home in the gated community of Grandview Peaks offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. An expansive home with 2 Master, king beds w/ensuites. Game room, 3 level wrap around deck, with multiple outdoor dining areas, a huge fire pit and patio for stargazing. Over 2 acres. Plenty of room to run and play outdoor games or take a dip in the private lake. Mountain views, surround by nature with great hiking trails!

Top guest favorite

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, 21 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 favorite

A two-story home is set among lush trees, featuring a welcoming front porch with seating. Large windows allow natural light to illuminate the exterior, while a wooden deck extends above, providing additional outdoor space. Leaves indicate a seasonal change, enhancing the natural surroundings.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 6 reviews

Modern Mountain Hideaway

Summer special 10% off June & July! This tranquil haven is nestled in the Blue Ridge and South Mountains. It offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The open-plan design features a spacious great room and kitchen, ideal for entertaining. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding mountains while being just minutes away from local attractions. Whether you're seeking a family getaway or a romantic escape, this serene oasis provides the ideal setting for creating lasting memories!

Guest favorite

The house is positioned on a hillside with a spacious deck overlooking the lake. A dock with boats and lounge space is visible at the water's edge. Lush greenery surrounds the home, creating a serene lakeside atmosphere.

Home in Nebo

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 83 reviews

Lakefront Lake James Private Dock Swim 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!

Guest favorite

A charming mountain cabin is set among lush greenery, featuring a sloped roof and a welcoming front porch. Gravel pathways lead to the entrance, bordered by neatly trimmed shrubs and trees, creating a serene atmosphere in the surrounding nature.

Cabin in Nebo

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 51 reviews

Cozy Cabin Retreat w/ Lake, Trails, Pool & more!

Escape to this cozy 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom mountain cabin in Nebo, NC- close to I-40! Enjoy a hot tub, fire pit, game room, access to a community lake for fishing and kayaking as well as hiking trails! Centrally located to popular mountain towns like Morganton, Marion, Linville Falls, Forest City, Lake Lure/Chimney Rock, Asheville and the Boone area, this cabin offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for your next getaway. Book your stay and experience mountain serenity today!

Guest favorite

Two canoes, one red and one blue, sit on a grassy area in front of a cottage surrounded by lush greenery. The cottage features dark wooden siding and white trim, with a stone retaining wall visible in the background.

Cottage in Marion

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 9 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!

Top guest favorite

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 30 reviews

Carpe Diem on Lake James private lakefront oasis

Welcome to my cherished new construction second home nestled in a quiet cove on Lake James. This mountain/lake oasis is set on a sprawling 1.5 acre waterfront estate and is a haven for those looking for all the comforts and amenities of a 5-star resort. Perfect for those looking to enjoy all the beauty and adventure awaiting in this mountain and lake retreat. While I often escape to this sanctuary for personal retreats, I believe in sharing its beauty with discerning guests.

Guest favorite

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

5 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews

Cozy cabin, a private, romantic, peaceful getaway!

Secluded, romantic, and oh-so cozy! This will easily become your favorite get-away! The cabin stands alone at the end of a long and quiet road, over looking a small pond and surrounded by peaceful woods and mountains! And yes, there are hiking trails! We custom built this cabin for you to escape the real world, unwind and recharge. You will instantly relax when you get here! You deserve to take a break, so come relax at this peaceful and romantic cabin built just for you!

Top guest favorite

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, 120 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!

Top guest favorite

The exterior of a charming lakeside house is highlighted, showcasing multiple decks and large glass doors. The property is surrounded by greenery, while a private dock extends toward the water. Lounge chairs are positioned on the lower deck, providing spaces for relaxation.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 20 reviews

Gorgeous Lakefront Home | Mountain AND Lake Views!

Words can't describe the amazing lake + mountain views while literally hanging over the water inside the sitting room. The location is incredible, just ~45 mins from Asheville, Lake James State Park, as well as plenty of hiking around. However, you may not want to leave the slow mornings + evenings on the decks or by the fire pit. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, you'll wake up feeling refreshed for a day of activity. It will be hard to leave this escape from the world!

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Cottages

Quaint homes, peaceful surroundings

Cabins

Kick off your hiking boots at these rustic lodgings

Popular amenities for McDowell County lake access rentals

Kitchen

Wifi

Pool

Free parking on premises

Air conditioning

Lake access house rentals

Guest favorite

The image displays the serene shores of Lake James, framed by forested hills. A row of blue kayaks is visible on a wooden rack, contrasting with the greenery surrounding them. A modern home is shown in the background, with a spacious driveway and bright landscaping.

Home in Morganton

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 50 reviews

Cozy Cove LakeHouse

JenniferRating, 5 stars3 months ago

Great place to stay

Guest favorite

A spacious screened porch features a large wooden dining table surrounded by black metal chairs. Natural light filters through the screens, offering views of tall trees and Lake James in the distance. Edison lights hang from the ceiling, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Home in Nebo

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 75 reviews

Lake James Deep Water Cove, Screen Porch & Kayaks!

CarolRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

The house had everything we needed in the kitchen and living areas. The boat dock was very well equipped with kayaks and easy to dock a rental boat. We had easy access to the lake. It has a wonderful, large dining table. We enjoyed the screened porch! The pool pavilion next store was lovely and very convenient. Jake was a very responsive host through the whole process. The information about things to do was very complete and helpful.

Top guest favorite

The image shows a serene lakefront setting with a lush tree line surrounding a calm, reflective body of water. A dock with two boat slips is visible, alongside a cozy boathouse, while the shoreline features a well-maintained area with natural landscape.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Lake James N.C. Waterfront home, Private dock/bunk

PenelopeRating, 5 stars6 months ago

Such a beautiful home and a wonderful place for a family weekend retreat to Lake Jackson State Park and participate in the Fonta Flora 50K. The home is so cozy, and enjoyable. Space to gather together and also retreat away to relax and read a book or nap. The deck and dock space are amazing!!! Hosts were so friendly and welcoming. We are already planning our next visit to their home.

Guest favorite

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Tested, Trusted, & Totally Ready on Lake James!

MarcyRating, 5 stars3 days ago

Had the pleasure to rent this property for a family extended weekend. The house could not have been more perfect. Great layout, well equipped kitchen, very clean and well appointed. There was easy access to the lake with a wonderful two story dock which provided cover for extended stays down at the water. Very peaceful and quiet location on the lake. A gem.

Guest favorite

A newly constructed house is situated on a spacious lot, surrounded by lush trees and natural landscaping. A gravel path leads to the entrance, while glimpses of the tranquil lake are visible in the background, enhancing the serene outdoor setting.

Home in Nebo

5 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews

Lake James Waterfront with Dock, Pool, and Kayaks!

CarrieRating, 5 stars1 month ago

We had a wonderful ladies weekend here. The house was beautiful and the the surroundings were so peaceful. We enjoyed sitting at the dock and kayaking. The house was spotless and had everything we needed for the weekend. We would love to come back again in the future.

Guest favorite

A modern two-story home is framed by lush greenery and colorful autumn foliage. The front porch features seating, while large windows allow natural light to fill the interior. A paved driveway provides access to the property, enhancing the inviting outdoor space.

Home in Black Mountain

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 30 reviews

Luxe Mountain Home Near Ridgecrest & Asheville!

RyanRating, 5 stars1 month ago

Great place to stay. Would definitely stay again!

A welcoming living area features a combination of a brown leather sofa and two armchairs, arranged around a rustic coffee table. A stone fireplace adds character to the space, while a large television is mounted above a wooden mantel. Natural light floods in through large windows.

Home in Marion

4.67 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Cozy Rustic Retreat

AustinRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

You won’t go wrong coming to this house. Bryson was great to work with, the house was super clean. Everything was top notch, I highly recommend!

Guest favorite

A two-story blue house with a gray roof is situated on a gently sloping lot surrounded by trees. A stone pathway leads up to the welcoming front porch, which is flanked by wooden steps. The paved driveway extends up to the garage door.

Home in Morganton

5 out of 5 average rating, 9 reviews

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

RickRating, 5 stars1 month ago

Such a great house! We loved it. The place was extremely clean upon arrival. It was well stocked with everything we needed for the weekend and not at all cluttered. Great location. We hiked Grandfather mountain, Shortoff mountain, and Hawksbill. All great hikes and easy to get to. We also spent an afternoon kayaking on Lake James. It was very peaceful with large, calm coves. Great place to stay and I hope to be back.

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Vacation rentals with lake access in McDowell County

Top-rated lake access rentals in McDowell County

Vacation rentals for every style

Popular amenities for McDowell County lake access rentals

Lake access house rentals

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