Vacation rentals with a kayak in McDowell County

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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

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

Relax with the whole family at this beautiful cottage on Lake James with views Quintessential lake front cabin in private setting on beautiful Lake James N.C. This is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with outstanding views and water access to N.C.’s most beautiful lake. The house is located on a beautiful private natural wooded lot, allowing guest to enjoy the property and its amenities with no disturbances. Bunk house and boatdock with two slips & 4 kayaks. Home has updated interior!

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.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 82 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!

5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

A serene lakeside view features colorful kayaks and paddleboards resting on the shore. A wooden dock leads to a covered area on the water, surrounded by trees. The calm lake reflects the surrounding landscape under a clear sky.

Home in Morganton

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Welcome to Loving Lake Life – Your Perfect Lake Retreat, Just 15 Minutes from Morganton! Nestled on the waterfront, our home offers easy access to the water with a short stone path leading to our private dock. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests and comes fully equipped with two kayaks, two paddleboards, a cozy fire pit, beautiful porches, a fun-filled game room, and more! Thoughtfully designed with all the amenities you need, this space is the ideal setting for your next getaway!

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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 57 reviews

Lake James Waterfront with Dock, Pool, and Kayaks!

Fisherman Cove at Lake James was just built and sleeps 10 in three bedrooms and two and a half baths, you can walk down and enjoy the 150 feet of lakefront! Play around on our kayaks, paddle boards, or just jump right in off our boat dock. It’s close to the Hawks Nest, Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Gorge, Table Rock, Black Mountain, Asheville, and other day adventures. Come have fun, new adventures, and endless exploration. Located in a gated community with pool, pavilion, and fire pit!

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 46 reviews

Home in Old Fort

Pool is OPEN! Views - Kayaks - Hiking - Waterfalls

Escape to this charming 700 sq. ft. mountain retreat overlooking Jacks Mountain Preserve - an old golf course turned nature preserve. Perfect for small families or couples, this cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features modern comforts and decor, 4 beds total, a fully equipped (and then some) kitchen, and reliable internet. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views by day and stargazing at night. Pet-friendly, with clean water and nearby nature trails, it’s ideal for relaxation or adventure.

5 out of 5 average rating, 28 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.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 97 reviews

Cozy Retreat Close to Lake James!

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. Experience the perfect retreat at LakeWays!

A two-story yellow house with gabled roofs stands amidst a forested area. Gravel paths lead to the entrance, which is flanked by a spacious deck. Stacks of firewood are neatly arranged around a central fire pit. The lake is visible in the background.

5 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews

Lakefront, private cove w/ creek

Now pet friendly. A perfect waterfront playground to forget your worries while immersed in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Direct water access to Lake James for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. Enjoy Dales Creek, which feeds mountain water into the lake. Whether swimming, paddling, fishing, or wading in the creek, there is no shortage of wildlife and flora to enjoy. Picnic and BBQ at the pavilion and relax by bonfires in the evenings.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

A spacious living area features a large leather sofa with decorative cushions, complemented by a small wooden side table. The open layout leads to a well-equipped kitchen visible in the background, with wooden walls enhancing the cozy atmosphere. Natural light fills the space from multiple windows.

Cabin in Nebo

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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviews

Tested, Trusted, & Totally Ready on Lake James!

We know many of you have been wondering about Lake James after Hurricane Helene, and we’re happy to share that the water has been tested and everything is safe—for swimming, boating, and soaking up that peaceful lake life. It means so much to us to be able to welcome guests like you, and we’d truly love the chance to host you. Come relax, reconnect, and enjoy all the beauty Lake James has to offer! Your perfect getaway starts here!

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 57 reviews

An aerial view of a cozy cabin surrounded by bare trees, featuring a circular stone patio and a fire pit. The cabin's deck is visible, with seating arranged for outdoor enjoyment. The wooded landscape provides a serene backdrop to the property.

Cabin in Nebo

Mountain View Cozy Cabin - Penny's Peak

*FIRE PIT WITH MOUNTAIN VIEW * Community 10 acre Lake with Sand Beach * Community Hiking Trail to Waterfall * Community Game Area with Activities * 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom * 2 King rooms, 1 Twin room with trundle * Linens Included * Coffee Bar: * Keurig: Carafe & Single Serve * French Press * KCups/Ground Coffee/Teas/Hot Chocolate provided * Gas Fireplace * Smart TVs in Living Room and Master Bedroom * Weber Charcoal Grill

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.