Vacation rentals in Lake James

Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Lake James

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Top guest favorite
The mountainous landscape is featured, with rolling hills and valleys visible beneath a cloudy sky that transitions to soft pinks at sunset. A stylish cabin with a green accent roof is positioned among trees, showcasing a welcoming porch adorned with vibrant flowering plants.
Cabin in Bakersville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 180 reviews

Hawks View House STUNNING VIEWS Architects Retreat

PLEASE DO NOT "Reserve" your dates until after you have sent a message w/ your party details via "Contact Host" button and we a have replied. Hawks View is an Architect's Mountain Top Retreat w/ Majestic VIEWS. A "Mountain Paradise in the Clouds". We offer 100% privacy. Come enjoy our ever-changing views from all rooms + our 800 sq ft wrap-around covered porch. We are conveniently located 6 mi to town, pet-friendly, w/ TV, Wifi, A/C, electric heat, wood stove, firepit + all the comforts of home.

Top guest favorite
A quaint cabin is nestled among lush greenery, showcasing a rustic wooden exterior and a peaked roof. Vibrant hydrangeas bloom prominently in the foreground, complemented by a large log that enhances the natural surroundings. The backdrop features rolling hills, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Tiny home in Fletcher
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 651 reviews

Raven Rock Mountain Cliffside Cabin

Experience the exhilarating sensation of living on the edge, perched over awe-inspiring vistas. Our cliffside cabin is an immersion into a world where adventure meets serenity, where you'll feel the embrace of nature and the thrill of the extraordinary. Enjoy complete serenity while being just a short drive away from fantastic restaurants, shops, and attractions. ✔ Partially Suspended over a Cliff! ✔ Comfortable Queen Bed & Sofa ✔ Kitchenette/BBQ ✔ Deck with Scenic Views Learn more below!

Top guest favorite
A hand-drawn sketch of the Ranger Retreat cabin is presented, showcasing its unique architectural design. Features include a sloped roof, deck with railings, and large window, all nestled against a backdrop of trees and mountains.
Cabin in Chimney Rock
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 168 reviews

Cabin w/private Waterfalls-Views-Hot Tub-Fire Pit!

This unique place has a style all its own designed to emulate a Ranger Retreat /fire tower. The cabin has a commanding view of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls/Gorge. The cabin was built out of 100+year old reclaimed materials with 15 foot vaulted ceilings on the main floor. With poplar bark walls, incredible lighting, hand cut slate floors your stay is guaranteed to be enchanting. Sit in the hot tub and look at a waterfall while listening to another waterfall behind you and river below you

Top guest favorite
A serene natural landscape features lush green mountains rising in the background, partially shaded by clouds. A calm body of water reflects the surrounding foliage, creating a harmonious connection between land and water.
Cabin in Erwin
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 291 reviews

Our mountain sanctuary

Come relax and play in the great outdoors. Our area is abundant with lakes, rivers, waterfalls and hiking (the Appalachian trail is just a mile away). Our rustic cabin is built from 1875 hand hewn logs and is located on Spivey Creek in Unicoi County Tennessee. The towns of Erwin TN and Burnsville NC are just down the mountain for shopping convenience. For the arts, entertainment and airport convenience Asheville NC and Johnson City TN are less than an hour away. Come stay in our lovely cabin.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the custom-built home showcases a striking A-frame design with large glass windows allowing for natural light. A spacious deck extends from the structure, surrounded by greenery, creating a serene outdoor environment ideal for relaxation.
Home in Nebo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

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!

Top guest favorite
The kitchen and living area feature rustic wooden beams overhead, creating a cozy atmosphere. A small dining table is accompanied by teal chairs, and a modern kitchen is equipped with appliances against a white wall. Natural light filters through the windows, enhancing the inviting space.
Guesthouse in Morganton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 258 reviews

Mountain modern Carriage House downtown Morganton

The Carriage House and city of Morganton have power and are ready visitors. This guest house sits behind a historic home in downtown Morganton. The 1920s structure has restored original finishes : a claw foot tub, vintage bathroom sink, and farm house sink in the kitchen. Downstairs features original wood bead board ceilings. Upstairs the ceiling was removed to expose the roof and beams. Two fireplaces keep it cozy - you'll have a lovely place relax and listen to the rain on the metal roof.

Top guest favorite
A cozy living space features a faux cowhide rug and a rounded coffee table topped with decorative plants. A comfortable recliner sits beside a wall-mounted television and an electric fireplace, while a small dining area with bar stools is visible in the background.
Cabin in Morganton
5 out of 5 average rating, 102 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
A turkey is seen center stage, its feathers fanned out against a backdrop of a sunset-lit farm. The gentle gradient of colors in the sky blends with soft clouds, while a rustic barn and a white fence complete the serene landscape.
Farm stay in Burnsville
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 181 reviews

Peaceful Farmstay | Wine, Views & Friendly Animals

Ever have a moment where you just stop and breathe it all in? That’s what this hillside farm is for...peaceful mountain views, sunsets from the summer kitchen, and the quiet joy of farm life. Wake to foggy hills and coffee, end your day with wine by the fire. With pigs, birds, a big fluffy farm dog, and space to just be... this is the reset you didn’t know you needed. Perfect for a romantic escape, girls trip, or a cozy family retreat... where stars shine, and life slows down.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Nebo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 146 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.

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
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 137 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, 739 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
The interior space features warm wooden walls and large windows offering expansive mountain views. A spacious bed is adorned with a vibrant red throw, and a cozy seating area is present. A dining table with black chairs and a console table complete the inviting space.
Treehouse in Marion
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews

View, Outdoor Tub, Hiking Trls, 30minto Asheville

🍁 Suspended, Treehouse With Views 🍁 Hiking trails to a Waterfall 🍁 Fire-pit with Hammock Swings 🍁 Outdoor Kitchen Countertop with Blackstone 🍁 Outdoor Tub 🛁 - Will be CLOSED Mid Nov - March due to below freezing temps. 📍 5 mins to Old Fort, NC 📍 15 mins to Marion 📍 20 mins to Black Mountain 📍 30 mins to downtown Asheville 📍 25 mins to Blue Ridge Parkway 📍 45 mins to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi)

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.