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$490,000
4388960 MLS ACTIVE Status
Welcome to Camp Catawba, Lake James NC! Truly Paradise Found! Tucked quietly into the heart of the most exclusive community known as Black Forest bordering the Catawba River, this rare artists cottage offers a chance to experience mountain/lake living in its purest form. Set within an exclusive 600 acre private , gated community on Lake James with only 50 homesites, the cabin rests on 3 private acres bordering protected, community owned conservation land creating an extraordinary sense of privacy, peace and connection to nature. This could be your tiny house while you build your main residence further up on the land or just come down for the weekend to enjoy the lake and relaxation. Designed with warmth and authenticity in mind, the cabin is wrapped in low maintenance poplar bark siding crafted with natural reclaimed woods throughout, giving the feel of a timeless woodland hideaway. The interior is cozy, inviting and intentionally simple... a place where mornings begin with birdsong and coffee on the screened porch or covered front porch and evenings end beside the glow of sunset off the back deck. Whether used as a weekend escape, creative retreat or future mountain homestead, the property allows flexibility rarely found in such a protected setting. The cabin allows for a simpler lifestyle close to nature, while still offering the opportunity to add a private well and septic system in the future if desired. The homesite also provides an additional building envelope with room for guest quarters, a studio,garage, workshop,or expanded living space- all while maintaining the natural beauty and privacy that make Black Forest so special. Surrounded by native hardwoods, mountain air and quiet trails this property feels worlds away while remaining part of one of the areas most unique and thoughtfully preserved developments. The existing 399 sq ft cabin offers spacious living room with reclaimed chestnut flooring, opening to large 204 sq ft heated screened porch which provides more living space and an open deck for grilling, overlooking the North Fork of Catawba River with views of the surrounding mountains an. Antique stained glass windows imported from France and hardware from Nepal. 50 sq ft loft for storage,etc.. This darling cabin/artist day studio has all of the perks of lake living without the premium price. A scenic walk approximately 1/3 mile (5 minute walk) from the cabin leads to the Lake Camp which includes your deeded boat slip #14 and pavilion . Enjoy easy access to the lake for boating, kayaking, fishing or simply relaxing along the shoreline while surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains. Also included is the River Camp with easy places to launch your kayak and fishing piers. This gated community offers a full time on site caretaker, a community building for cozy neighborhood get togethers and heli-pad . Only minutes to downtown Marion for dining, shopping, entertainment,etc. Also just 20 minutes to some of the best mountain biking and hiking trails at Fonta Flora State Park or Paddys Creek State Park. Truly nature's playground!

130 Settlement Ridge Drive Unit #48, Marion

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. drreihl@bellsouth.net

$3,890,000
4 Beds 5 Baths 4370977 MLS ACTIVE Status
Welcome to an exceptional waterfront estate built in 2024, offering over 4,000 sq ft of meticulously designed living space on a private 12.7-acre parcel with 795 feet of stabilized shoreline. This contemporary home blends high-end finishes, thoughtful layout, and wonderful outdoor living spaces for buyers seeking privacy, luxury on a private lakefront parcel. Step inside to an open, bright floorplan anchored by a gourmet kitchen featuring quartz countertops, a large island perfect for casual dining and entertaining, and top-tier stainless steel appliances. An oversized awning window opens to the screened porch creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. The main level hosts the luxurious primary suite with an elegant ensuite bath, offering privacy and single-floor convenience. Elevator access provides effortless movement between floors. The second floor delivers two generous bedrooms, each with private ensuite baths, plus a versatile loft space. The lower-level walkout is an entertainer’s dream: a full bedroom with ensuite, a complete second kitchen for independent living or large gatherings, a spacious family room, exercise room, flex room, and a dedicated office. Practical touches include a second washer/dryer in the basement and an on-demand water heater for efficiency. A whole-house standby generator ensures uninterrupted comfort and peace of mind. Outdoor living is designed for enjoyment and durability. Hardscaping and a patio with a gas fire pit create an inviting gathering spot, while a hookup is ready for a hot tub. The property’s waterfront amenities are outstanding: a covered single-slip floating dock with lift, composite decking, and a metal roof make boating and lakeside lounging effortless. Nearly 800 feet of stabilized shoreline guarantees privacy and long-term waterfront integrity. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include Hardie board siding and stone. Additionally a detached two-car garage equipped with HVAC and Wi-Fi and cold water sink for workshop convenience, and a long drive that enhances the sense of seclusion while providing ample parking for guests. This estate is thoughtfully appointed for multi-generational living, entertaining, or year-round retreat use. High-end finishes, abundant natural light, flexible living spaces, and unparalleled waterfront access combine to create a property that satisfies both practical needs and lifestyle aspirations. Experience waterfront living without compromise. Community amenities include open pavilions at the lake Camp and River Camp. Miles of walking trails, community building and full time on site caretaker. Just 15 minutes to Marion shops, restaurants and entertainment.

1503 Black Forest Drive, Marion

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. polly.leadbetter@evrealestate.com

$2,390,000
4 Beds 4 Baths 4334363 MLS ACTIVE Status
Listen to the rushing waters of the stream and waterfall that encircle the house as you enter this magnificent log home. The soaring ceiling & expansive windows capture views of the surrounding trees. Brazilian walnut flooring & the floor to ceiling stone wood burning fireplace are the centerpieces of this great room. Open kitchen & dining area provide ample entertaining space. Spend cozy evenings on the screened porch with a fire or on the deck overlooking Lake James. Main level primary suite with gas fireplace & ensuite bath with large tiled shower and jet tub. Lower level has 2nd primary suite with gas fireplace, a bunk room and a 4th bedroom both share access to a hall bath with claw foot tub. A second kitchen & stone fireplace in the family room provide a cozy entertainment area with pool table & TV. Lower level patio with stamped concrete features outdoor shower, hot tub and adds a great location for outdoor dining. Enjoy a short walk down the stone stairway to the gazebo in the woods or continue on to the lake where you'll find an expansive covered gazebo & floating dock in the quiet deep water cove. Detached 2 car oversized garage has space for cars and boats. Many updates including composite decking on front, rear and breezeway decks as well as new gazebo rails, new floating dock and refurbished waterfall feature. Located on 5.73 acres, this family compound at Lake James is the place you'll want to choose to make your lake life memories. Black Forest is a gated community about 15 minutes from Marion and features a community center, lake and river camp amenity areas with picnic pavilions, fire pits, lake access and miles of hiking trails throughout the community. Offered turnkey with few exclusions.

143 Nature Walk Drive, Marion

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. polly.leadbetter@evrealestate.com

$199,900
4330680 MLS ACTIVE Status
Welcome to Lot 49 in Black Forest on Lake James! This beautiful homesite is an ideal setting to build your dream home in a sought-after gated community. Residents enjoy access to community amenities including a clubhouse, lake access, picnic area, recreation area, scenic walking trails, and so much more! In addition, this lot includes its own deeded boat slip, providing convenient access to Lake James for boating and water recreation. Enjoy a peaceful mountain lifestyle while being just 20 minutes from downtown Marion for shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. You don't miss this perfect opportunity for a primary residence or vacation retreat in this exceptional lake community!

49 Lake James Road, Marion

Listing courtesy of J. Peterson Realty & Associate. 828-442-8695

$850,000
4298708 MLS ACTIVE Status
Discover one of the most versatile and stunning properties in the exclusive, gated Black Forest community on Lake James. This expansive 5.2-acre waterfront lot offers a rare combination of features: a level, easily buildable homesite, a gentle walk to the shoreline, and sweeping long-range main channel and mountain views. With an 8-bedroom septic permit already in place and approval for multiple dwellings, the possibilities are endless—whether you envision a sprawling estate, guest cottages, or a private family retreat. Enjoy the privacy and natural beauty that make Black Forest one of Lake James’ most desirable communities. Owners benefit from a full time caretaker, community trails, a river camp, and a Lake Camp with a pavilion, offering both seclusion and convenient access to the water. Rarely does a property combine acreage, level terrain, multi-dwelling potential, and big water views like this. Build the legacy lake property you’ve always imagined on Lot 28.

2205 Black Forest Drive Unit #28, Marion

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. bryan@lakejames.com

$3,000,000
4 Beds 5 Baths 4251327 MLS ACTIVE Status
Exquisite Modern Lodge nestled on 9.86 private acres, one of a kind on pristine Lake James. With over 1200' of lake frontage, enjoy owning your own private pointe. A nature lovers paradise, watching deer and turkey then being lulled to sleep with the sounds of crickets, frogs and whippoorwills. This modern lodge boasts 4 spacious bedrooms, a sleeping loft overlooking the family room 3 full baths and 2 halfs, easily sleeping upwards of 16.The majestic family room features floor to ceiling stone fireplace with oversized windows for views of the lake. The kitchen is fully equipped for any want to be chef with all modern appliances.The downstairs area is ready for family games and relaxing TV time. Walk out to the spacious yard with large fire pit and views of the lake. Easy walk to the water to hop on your boat and explore Lake James. The most amazing part of this custom home is the screened in porch with stone fireplace. Summer,fall or winter it's the place for all to gather.

163 Cabin Bluff Drive Unit #4, Marion

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. lgriffin397@gmail.com

“ Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of . All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Some IDX listings have been excluded from this website. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information © 2026 Canopy MLS as distributed by MLS GRID”

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