
House vacation rentals in McDowell County
Find and book unique houses on Airbnb
Top-rated house rentals in McDowell County
Guests agree: these houses are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Little Cabin in the Woods
Relax with the whole family at this peaceful, unique log cabin completely updated, nestled in the woods. Secluded mountain feel, but 5 minutes from I-40. Minutes from Lake James, and a short drive to the eateries/ entertainment of Morganton or Marion. Access all the amazing activities that WNC has to offer including hiking, biking, boating, tubing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, with beautiful weather & scenery year round from this convenient location or sit on the front porch & enjoy the beauty.

Creekside Celo Farmhouse
Tucked below Mt. Celo Knob, you can expect to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains, the sweet hum of the creek and our gardens. Come for a rustic, simple stay in our clean, light filled home! Located off Highway 80 on 5 acres near the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounded by nearby hiking trails and the gorgeous Celo Knob and South Toe River. Closest towns are Burnsville (15 min) & Spruce Pine (20 min). Super close to Camp Celo, Mt Mitchell, Waterfall hikes, Penland, Arthur Morgan School.

Special- Hottub, Firepit, 2 Private Acres
Unwind in a secluded mountain hideaway, where towering trees, rhododendron slopes, and the soothing sounds of a stream welcome you. Natural light pours through skylights and large windows, creating a warm, inviting space w/ artisan touches throughout. 🌿 2 Private Acres | 🔥 Fire Pit | ✨ Stargazing Decks | 🛁 Hot Tub | 🐶 Dog-friendly Perfect for a peaceful getaway, adventure seekers, or remote work. Surrounded by forest, a stream, and the sounds of nature, your private mountain sanctuary.

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!

3 miles to downtown Marion & Lake James
A View to Remember is situated in a secluded spot that offers plenty of privacy and tranquility. You'll feel like you're miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city, even though you're just a short drive to downtown Marion and Lake James. With comfortable furnishings and plenty of space to relax, our rental is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony or watch the sunset over the horizon - either way, you're in for a treat.

Incredible Views at Continental Divide Retreat
Continental Divide Retreat is an isolated home perched on the Eastern Continental Divide at 3200 feet elevation on Apple Mountain in the Western North Carolina Mountains. It is a spacious 2,600 sf 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 Bath 5-star Mountaintop Home adjoining the Blue Ridge Parkway with beautiful, panoramic 35+ mile views. Many local attractions and shopping are only minutes away. A perfect place for a family or for a couple to create memories. "WOW! Best VRBO yet!: Carey

The Retreat at Parson's Glen
Parson's Glen is close to Roan Mountain, Mt. Mitchell and just minutes away from the Penland School of Crafts, Spruce Pine and Bakersville. We are located on 10 secluded acres with striking mountain views, lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. After exploring artist studios, gem mining, river rafting, hiking mountain trails, dining at local restaurants, or a day of shopping, return and relax on our large wrap-around front porch and wait for the fireflies to appear.

Cozy 2 bedroom home with firepit!
Relax with the whole family at this peaceful 2 bedroom tiny home! Its the perfect spot for couples or small familes looking for a quiet getaway!! This is the perfect location being just minutes to the best hiking/biking trails around and 10 minutes to black mountain, 25 minutes to popular down town Asheville! We are also just 25 min to lake James! So much fun in one area! Enjoy a day tubing down catawba river, hiking catawba falls, or exploring around andrews geyser!

Awesome Views
Ready for a quiet retreat with breathtaking views and all the comforts of home? Book your stay today and discover why Burnsville is a hidden gem in the Blue Ridge. Welcome to your mountain escape! Nestled on a private 1.5-acre lot just off Hwy 19E in beautiful Burnsville, NC, our cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers stunning long-range views and peaceful seclusion – without sacrificing easy access. Just minutes to shops, dining, and outdoor adventures in Burnsville.

Quaint Mt. Mitchell Condo with Stunning Views
Take a break and unwind at this peaceful oasis. Gorgeous mountain views from the front porch and Pisgah National Forest in the back yard make this condo a cozy and quiet place to relax and watch the stars at night. Plenty of hiking trails nearby, minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and more just outside the door! During the summer the HOA hosts local musicians to perform at the pool or clubhouse once a month. The pool may close a little earlier on those evenings.

The Stargazer
Our home is a peaceful retreat whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. Spend an evening grilling on the covered front porch and have dinner under the patio lights as the deer cross through the field at dusk. Newly added record player and several records for your enjoyment, as well as some new books for the avid reader. Enjoy the beautiful stars on a clear night. We live near by in the case you run into any issues during your stay.

Come experience Fall in the Foothills!
Welcome to Little River Acres! Located in Marion, NC. Home of the WNC Bigfoot Festival - August 23rd, 2025! Private home on 20 acres. This country cottage is perfect for families, romantic getaways, or a quick weekend escape to the mountains. Features a wood burning fireplace, two outdoor fire pits, fully functional kitchen and washer/dryer. Additional pets will be an extra $25 charge per pet, maximum of 2 pets.
Popular amenities for McDowell County house rentals
House rentals with a pool

Lake James Deep Water Cove, Screen Porch & Kayaks!

Dream Big and Take a Breath

Lake James Escape | Waterfront Relaxation Awaits!

Lake James Waterfront with Dock, Pool, and Kayaks!

Relaxing lake front home

Our Neck of the Woods - lakefront! fish! canoe!

Spacious Ranch with a pool and breathtaking views

Charming Hideaway with Breathtaking Views
Weekly house rentals

Mountain Modern + Hot Tub + Biltmore Pass

The Bluebird Nest: A Mountain Retreat

OPEN Power ON & Water Cozy Marion NC Retreat Pet

Quaint Mill Cottage in Marion

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Yorkstead at Basecamp

Bear Ridge (Sauna, King Bed, Pets Ok)

Paw Joe’s Place-Mtn. Farmhouse
Private house rentals

Carpe Diem on Lake James private lakefront oasis

Mountain vistas & river access on 90 acres

The Breakaway at Catawba Falls

Top O' the Valley

Hot Tub, 2 Kings, by Waterfalls, Skiing, 4x4 Recco

Luxury secluded mountain retreat

Stunning Retreat w/ Mtn Views near Black Mountain

Relaxing Farmhouse, pet friendly, walk to town
Destinations to explore
- Pet-friendly rentals McDowell County
- Rentals with a washer and dryer McDowell County
- Cottage rentals McDowell County
- Rentals with pools McDowell County
- Rentals with a patio McDowell County
- Rentals with lake access McDowell County
- Rentals with a fire pit McDowell County
- Rentals with a fireplace McDowell County
- Apartment rentals McDowell County
- Rentals with a kayak McDowell County
- Family-friendly rentals McDowell County
- Rentals with a hot tub McDowell County
- Tiny house rentals McDowell County
- Cabin rentals McDowell County
- Rentals with outdoor seating McDowell County
- House rentals North Carolina
- House rentals United States
- Beech Mountain Ski Resort
- Tweetsie Railroad
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Appalachian Ski Mtn
- Grandfather Mountain
- River Arts District
- Max Patch
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Chimney Rock State Park
- Tryon International Equestrian Center
- Lake James State Park
- Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline
- Lake Lure Beach and Water Park
- Elk River Club
- Grandfather Mountain State Park
- Grandfather Golf & Country Club
- Jump Off Rock
- Land of Oz
- Biltmore Forest County Club
- Banner Elk Winery
- Boone Golf Club
- French Broad River Park
- Vineyards for Biltmore Winery
- Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
- Things to do McDowell County
- Nature and outdoors McDowell County
- Things to do North Carolina
- Nature and outdoors North Carolina
- Art and culture North Carolina
- Sports activities North Carolina
- Food and drink North Carolina
- Tours North Carolina
- Sightseeing North Carolina
- Wellness North Carolina
- Entertainment North Carolina
- Things to do United States
- Sightseeing United States
- Entertainment United States
- Wellness United States
- Tours United States
- Food and drink United States
- Art and culture United States
- Sports activities United States
- Nature and outdoors United States