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

Guests agree: these lake access rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Guest favorite
The log cabin features a welcoming front entrance with a wide staircase leading up to the porch. Large glass doors and windows are framed by wooden beams, allowing for natural light. Surrounding greenery complements the rustic exterior, creating a calm atmosphere.
Cabin in McDowell County
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 92 reviews

Luxury Family Cabin | Hot Tub, Pond + Game Room!

Welcome to Woodland Hills Lodge! Experience an epic getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains when you book this beautiful log cabin where you'll be enveloped by the soothing scent of swiss pine and crisp mountain air. The cabin boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, hot tub, game room and private fishing pond! Situated in a quiet gated community with access to the communal playground. You'll enjoy the peacefulness of the location while being in close proximity to the conveniences of downtown Marion, NC

Top guest favorite
A covered patio features comfortable seating with plush cushions, overlooking the lake and mountains. A glass coffee table holds a decorative bowl. Scenic views of trees and water create a peaceful setting, complemented by clear blue skies and soft clouds.
Home in Nebo
5 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

Waterfront & View + Dock, Sauna, Hot Tub*, Bonfire

Lake Barn is private waterfront home tucked nicely behind Big Island on Lake James. Spacious and light filled open floor plan main living area. 2 large covered patios with breathtaking panoramic lake and mountain views. Enjoy sunset by fire pit or on boat dock seating area. Perfect location on the lake: Bear Creek Marina & Restaurant is 5 min boat ride! Driving distance from Asheville, Biltmore, Linville. Short drive to scenic overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, local wineries and breweries

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 charming two-story vacation home is nestled among lush greenery, featuring a stone chimney and wooden accents. A spacious deck extends from the upper level, and a set of stairs leads from the driveway to the entrance, surrounded by a natural landscape.
Cabin in Burnsville
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

Treetops Lodge Cabin Private Mountain Hideaway

Wake up and enjoy panoramic views on the expansive deck of Treetops Lodge. This exceptional vacation home, located in the exclusive Mt. Mitchell Golf Course Community, surrounds you with natural beauty yet provides every comfort you could ask for. Treetops Lodge is ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers who appreciate well-appointed lodging and a gorgeous location at a great price. And yes, Treetops is pet friendly so your well-behaved dog is welcome too, with prior approval. R&R awaits!

Guest favorite
A serene deck overlooks Lake James, with green water reflecting the natural surroundings. Two chairs frame a portable fire pit, providing a cozy seating area. Lush trees and a marina are visible in the distance, enhancing the connection to the lakefront experience.
Cabin in Nebo
5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Cabin with Fire Pit

Enjoy the slower pace of lake life at this cabin on Lake James. The 1-bed + loft vacation rental is a quarter-mile to the nearest swimming entrance and right next to Lake James Marina. If desired, an uncovered boat slip may be purchased separately through the marina. When you’re not out on the lake, kick back and relax on the spacious deck! Later, cozy up by the fire pit for late night s’mores before heading inside to watch a movie in bed. Cabin is fully equipped with everything you could need!

Top guest favorite
A cabin featuring natural wood siding stands surrounded by trees. A screened-in porch with a wooden railing is visible, providing a welcoming entrance. Steps lead up to the porch, while a stone pathway creates an inviting approach. The structure is set against a backdrop of lush greenery.
Cabin in Nebo
5 out of 5 average rating, 48 reviews

Lake James Marina Cabin

Lake James Marina cabin awaits your family’s arrival to begin making memories! Enjoy your morning coffee in the screened in deck with views of the lake. Situated between two state parks within just a few miles, the marina has its own swimming area as well. Bring your boat or rent from the fleet at the marina! Tubing, fishing, and enjoying the views of the mountains from the lake will occupy your time during the day, and come home to cook on your outdoor grill and quiet time in the evening!

Superhost
Home in Old Fort
5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

The Bishop House at Wunderland Resort

The Bishop House offers 2 queen beds, 2 full baths and a full kitchen, along with a workout room with weights. This light and spacious home is part of Wunderland Resort and just steps away from all the amenities. While you're here, enjoy the Nest outdoor eatery and workspace, our gorgeous swim pond, 8 person sauna, wellness deck, community firepit, BBQ and The Garden of the Gods - our hammock chill zone. 5 min from downtown Old Fort, 10 min from Catawba Falls, and 1 min from the G5 trails.

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, 94 reviews

Lake James Private Dock Quiet Cove 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 view of the serene waterway from the dock is displayed, featuring tranquil reflections of the sky and surrounding greenery. Two tiered docks are visible, with boats moored along the banks. Lush trees frame the scene against a backdrop of scattered clouds.
Home in Nebo
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviews

Lake Life w/ Luxury! 2-Tier Dock

New 3600 sq ft home! 2 tier dock w/ views, diving platform, paddle board & kayaks. Sunset on dock or sunrise while fishing. 2 Masters on main. Gameroom, wet bar, on level 2. Coffee on huge deck or gas grill, cornhole, or firepit on patio. Wifi down to the dock. Bring own boat & dock or owner has jetski, boat rental options. Quick boat ride to Marina/deep water no wake cove. Gated community in The Arbor. Kitchen fully stocked w/ air fryer, 2 coffee makers, icemaker… trash bags, TP provided

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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviews

Cozy Secluded Mountain Cabin—Peaceful & Quiet

Tucked away at the end of a long, quiet road, this private cabin overlooks a small pond and is surrounded by peaceful woods and mountain views. The world slows down here. Birds sing. Mornings are quiet. Nearby hiking trails await when you’re ready. We custom-built this cabin as a place to escape everyday noise, unwind, and recharge. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel your shoulders drop. If you’re craving rest, connection, and a little romance, this cabin was built just for you.

Top guest favorite
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.
Home in Nebo
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 27 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.

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, 135 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!

Popular amenities for McDowell County lake access rentals

Destinations to explore