Morganton Homes with Waterfront

Morganton Homes with Waterfront

Morganton: A Picturesque City in Burke County, North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of Burke County, North Carolina, lies the charming city of Morganton. Known for its natural beauty and vibrant community, Morganton offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. With its convenient location just a short drive from Asheville and Charlotte, Morganton is an ideal place to call home.

Situated in the western part of North Carolina, Morganton is blessed with breathtaking landscapes and abundant waterways. If you're a nature enthusiast or simply love the serenity of waterfront living, Morganton has an array of homes with waterfront access. Whether you're looking for a cozy cottage on the shores of Lake James or a spacious estate overlooking the Catawba River, you'll find a variety of options to suit your taste and lifestyle.

Living in a waterfront home in Morganton offers more than just stunning views. It provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the shore and spending your evenings watching the sun set over the glistening waves. It's a lifestyle that many dream of, and in Morganton, it can become a reality.

Aside from its natural beauty, Morganton boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city also offers a wide range of dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, where you can savor delicious local cuisine.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an active lifestyle surrounded by nature, Morganton has it all. With its picturesque landscapes, waterfront homes, and vibrant community, this city is truly a hidden gem in North Carolina. Come and discover the beauty of Morganton for yourself.

Newest Morganton Homes with Waterfront

$789,900
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4407190 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Back on the market at no fault of the seller or condition of the home (buyers changed their mind about moving). Welcome to 4634 Harbor View Terrace! This beautifully appointed ranch-style lakefront home offers true main-level living with a finished lower level, blending comfort, space, and exceptional lake views. Featuring three bedrooms (all on main level) and three full bathrooms, the home showcases a mix of hardwood and carpeted floors along with two inviting fireplaces—one in the main living room and another in the lower-level den—creating warm gathering spaces on both levels. The main level includes a dedicated dining room, a spacious kitchen with granite countertops, ample cabinetry, and a charming breakfast nook, all designed to take advantage of the home’s scenic setting. The primary suite serves as a private retreat with lake views, a walk-in closet, a walk-in shower, and a relaxing whirlpool tub, along with private access to the lake-facing deck—perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets. The finished lower level expands the living space with a bar, an additional bedroom, and a den centered around the second fireplace, with direct exterior access to the lakefront, along with an unfinished bonus room offering generous storage or the opportunity for customization. Step outside to enjoy three expansive lake-facing decks with clear, unobstructed water views—a rare feature no longer permitted on many newer lakefront lots. Nearly every room in the home enjoys a lake view, with the exception of the dining room and one secondary bedroom. Positioned on a wide, protected cove, the property offers beautiful open water views without the disruption of heavy boat traffic, creating a peaceful and enjoyable lakefront experience. Whether swimming in the lake or the neighborhood pool, playing tennis, or heading out on the water, this home delivers the ultimate lake lifestyle. A boat slip is included, making it easy to enjoy everything the lake has to offer. *Take a look at the drone video in agent remarks!*

4634 Harbor View Terrace, Morganton

Listing courtesy of DASH Carolina. zac.campbell@dashnc.com
$1,000,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4405514 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
This 74.06-acre unrestricted property features long-range mountain views, Canoe Creek running the length of the property with several access points to the water, and approximately 2 miles of hiking and 4wheeler trails for enjoying your private mountain sanctuary. It includes a 2,351 sqft 3BR, 3BA 2story home built in 2020 along with multiple other potential build sites throughout, and an open, grassy field perfect for picnics, bonfires and recreation. The property sits across the street from the 652 acre Oak Hill Community Park and Forest which hosts over 20 miles(and growing) of mountain biking and hiking trails. Lake James and Lake James State Park are less than 15 mins away for water sports, hiking and more mountain biking for adrenaline enthusiasts. The towns of Old Fort, Black Mountain, Boone, Blowing Rock and Asheville are all less than an hour's drive from the property. Historic downtown Morganton which offers shopping several grocery stores, restaurants, breweries and wineries is just 10 minutes away by vehicle; Enjoy the Historic Morganton Festival in September, the TGIF series that runs from May through July and the Winter Carnival and Downtown Lighting to start the Christmas holidays; These 74 acres offer a blend of privacy, natural beauty and development potential while remaining pristine and with breathtaking views; This is the perfect setting for your own private estate, a family compound, a hunting property, an eco-tourism venture including camping and glamping, an AirBnB or as a legacy investment; Explore the remaining foundation of the old JD Pitts Dam and Mill site on the property in Canoe Creek where grain was milled using the dam, water wheel and grinding wheels; Game on the property include deer, turkey, rabbit, dove, and an occassional bear, and more; The custom-designed, like-new 2story home has a 1st floor bedroom and full bathroom, an open layout and 2 primary and secondary owner's suites; The entry room has 2 closets and a vaulted, shiplap ceiling; The kitchen has a wonderful view of the backyard landscaping and hill along with a large island and stainless appliances; The dining room has a comfortable window seat and a table made from local harvested wood; The living room has plenty of natural light coming in and a sliding glass door to the spacious, covered rear deck with its wood stove; The left side owner's suite has an office area and balcony, a loft area, the laundry and a full bathroom with a tiled and glass stall shower; The right side owner's suite with its own private access and stairway has a large walk-in closet / office and a full bathroom with a stall shower; Other desirable features include a 1st floor workstation, shiplap walls, wood laminate planking and ceramic tile flooring, a hot tub and 2 mini-split heat/air units with 5 trunk lines; The outdoor space includes a landscaped front natural area, a fire pit and backyard access to the trail system; The attached garage and attached storage area give you valuable storage area; The detached garage has electric, a concrete floor and a rear lean-to perfect for a tractor or side-by-side; The property was accepted in March 2026 to the NC Present-Use Value program which provides tax incentives to the property owner;

1568 Watermill Road, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. Bobwarchol@kw.com
$364,900
4380561 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Set on 3.71 private acres in the gated Waters Edge community, this rare Lake James homesite offers a large level waterfront on one of the lake's quietest coves — calm, clear water perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding from your own backyard. This is a non-dockable lot. The wooded, gently sloping site is ready to build on or come enjoy as is: driveway, parking, and boat trailer storage already in place, soil test on record, and the Fonta Flora State Trail running directly along the back edge of the property. Underground power, high-speed internet, and city water are available. Short-term rentals are allowed. Adjacent to 47.99 acres of protected green space, this lot feels more like a private nature preserve than a typical lakefront homesite. The community beach and a nearby marina with a public boat launch keep the full lake experience within easy reach. Morganton is 15 minutes away; Asheville under an hour. Seclusion, acreage, and a front-row seat to Lake James — all in one place. NC Agent Owned

3100 E Moonlight Place Unit #42, Morganton

Listing courtesy of GreyBeard Realty. christy@greybeardrealty.com
$995,000
4399516 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
People spend a lifetime searching for views like these. Build the luxury lakefront retreat you've always envisioned on one of the most exceptional homesites available on Lake James. Situated on 1.50 partially cleared acres, this rare waterfront property offers over 200 feet of shoreline, breathtaking long-range water and mountain views, and a gentle, level private building site that's ready for your custom dream home. Imagine enjoying sunsets from your future lakeside terrace, relaxing from your custom dock, or spending the day boating, paddleboarding, and swimming on one of North Carolina's most sought-after lakes. With county water available, a 4-bedroom septic approval, and no HOA, you'll have the freedom to create an extraordinary lakefront estate tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you're searching for a full-time residence or an unforgettable vacation getaway, opportunities like this are incredibly rare. Exceptional views, generous shoreline, a level build site, and one of Lake James' most desirable locations—this is luxury waterfront living at its finest. Don't miss your chance to own one of the last premier waterfront lots on Lake James.

V/L N Powerhouse Road, Morganton

Listing courtesy of J. Peterson Realty & Associate. 828-460-7508
$249,000
4374230 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Build your waterfront dream home at Lake James, in the pristine gated community of Waters Edge. The property features a great build site and 168 feet of shoreline with a very gentle slope down to the water. This partially cleared, 0.94-acre waterfront lot has it's own beach, providing easy access to a quiet cove. Waters Edge is a gated community offering amenities such as a private swimming beach, a communal fire pit area, and access to the Fonta Flora mountain biking and hiking trail, which encircles the eastern side of Lake James. Short term rentals are allowed!

3107 Channel View Cove, Morganton

Listing courtesy of GreyBeard Realty. dave@greybeardrealty.com
$399,000
4373549 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Long-range water views and a fully equipped dock setup make this waterfront lot in SouthPointe stand out. Located at 4981 Camellia Drive (Lot 228), the property overlooks a quiet, protected cove with a view that opens up beautifully across Lake James. A platform dock, floating dock, and jet ski ramp are already in place—offering immediate access to the water without the wait. The setting provides both visual appeal and calm conditions for swimming, paddling, and boating. SouthPointe is one of the most established communities on Lake James and the only one with public sewer, along with high-speed fiber internet. Amenities include a lakeside clubhouse, pool, and walking trails. Convenient to downtown Morganton, where you’ll find a growing selection of restaurants, breweries, shops, and daily essentials. Well-positioned waterfront lots with this combination of view, dock, and build-readiness are becoming increasingly limited on Lake James.

4981 Camellia Drive Unit #228, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. fletcher@lakejames.com
$2,400,000
5 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 4368973 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Waterfront estate situated on its own private peninsula along the pristine shores of Lake James. Sweeping, unobstructed views of the lake and surrounding mountains greet you from the wrap-around porch where Golden Hour sunsets are nothing short of extraordinary. The property is designed for easy indoor-outdoor living and entertaining with thoughtfully designed water features including 3 waterfalls and a goldfish pond, a large green space ready for croquet or even a regulation size pickleball or badminton court, a brand-new dock, a fire-pit set on the point, and 450 feet of private shoreline. A timeless Victorian home spans three levels rich in character. Inside, a dramatic foyer with soaring ceilings and a curved staircase makes a striking first impression, while the two-story circular library stands as a true architectural centerpiece. The main level is thoughtfully laid out for both everyday living and hosting, with generous living and dining spaces, a cozy den, and a kitchen complete with a wood-burning fireplace and easy access to the outdoor areas. The primary suite features a private balcony and spa-inspired bath, while additional bedrooms, flexible living areas, and a finished lower level plumbed for a kitchen provide ample space for guests, friends, and family. A truly one-of-a-kind Lake James property that must be experienced to be fully appreciated. Owner is financing available at 3.25% — a rare opportunity for a property this distinctive.

4950 Canterbury Place, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Patton Allen Real Estate LLC. rachel@pattonallenre.com
$495,000
4362931 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
5029 Winfield Drive | Southpointe at Lake James — A Rare Waterfront Gem Nestled on 1.13 acres with a beautifully cleared shoreline, ready for you to create unforgettable moments on the pristine waters of Lake James. This exceptional homesite invites you to design your dream retreat at water's edge where luxury living meets nature’s masterpiece. Imagine waking each morning to the soft glow of sunrise dancing across the water and ending your evenings with breathtaking sunsets framed by the Blue Ridge foothills. Welcome to 5029 Winfield Drive—where every day feels like a retreat. Nestled within the established Southpointe community, this property offers more than just a place to build, it offers a lifestyle defined by natural beauty, relaxation, and connection. Conveniently located in the heart of Morganton, with easy access to Asheville, Hickory, and Charlotte. Southpointe offers close proximity to shopping, dining, medical facilities, and outdoor recreation, including the scenic trails of the Fonta Flora State Trail. Schedule your tour today, as this stunning waterfront homesite is truly a hidden gem. Dock Permit Status: While the prior dock permit has expired, the seller will provide a credit at closing toward obtaining a new permit—offering a seamless opportunity to design and enjoy your ideal lakefront experience.

5029 Winfield Lane, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Realty Executives of Hickory. dana@danagibsonhomes.net
$1,499,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4360898 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
Where the mountains meet the water, this breathtaking lakefront retreat on the shores of Lake James delivers a lifestyle most only dream about. Rare lakefront opportunity on stunning Lake James — one of Western North Carolina's most prized mountain lakes. This exceptional 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 2,270 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space on 1.84 private acres, delivering resort-style living with a brand-new infinity-edge swimming pool that spills visually into breathtaking, unobstructed lake views. Whether entertaining or unwinding, the seamless indoor-outdoor flow and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop create an atmosphere of unmatched tranquility and luxury. The Fonta Flora State Trail runs directly through the backyard, providing immediate trail access for hiking and biking along one of NC's most celebrated multi-use trail systems — with plans to ultimately connect Morganton to Asheville. Step off your property and onto miles of scenic trails without ever getting in your car. Lake James offers over 6,500 surface acres and 150+ miles of shoreline for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and world-class fishing including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, and crappie. Lake James State Park, Whippoorwill Farm at Fonta Flora Brewery, Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, Grandfather Mountain, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and downtown Morganton's dining and shopping scene are all just minutes away. Asheville and the Biltmore Estate are an easy 45-minute drive. Properties combining 1.84 acres of direct lakefront, a new infinity pool, and trail-to-backyard connectivity at Lake James are extraordinarily rare. This is Western NC lakefront living at its absolute finest.

2063 W Bluewater Drive, Morganton

Listing courtesy of EXP Realty LLC Ballantyne. 828-337-2200
$2,699,999
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4364860 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
One-of-a-kind property situated on its own peninsula on beautiful Lake James in the sought-after South Pointe community. This amazing custom home sits on 2 acres with rear and side panoramic views of open water and the Blue Ridge Mountains, including Shortoff and Table Rock Mountain. High-end features include oversized windows, custom-tiled showers, granite countertops, a butler’s pantry, outdoor shower, real hardwoods, superior wall basement, 50-year shingles, electric water heaters, and more! Open-concept living, dining, and kitchen areas sit under a cathedral ceiling with a huge stacked rock fireplace and floor-to-ceiling rear windows. The large primary suite features two walk-in closets and a luxury ensuite bathroom with a custom-tiled shower, jacuzzi tub, and exterior entry. A second bedroom on the main level offers an adjacent full bath. The upper level includes an open loft/second living area and a second primary bedroom with a spacious full bath featuring a jacuzzi tub. The basement can be accessed from the interior of the main home and the detached garage via a covered walkway. Enjoy a true oversized garage with a work area. The massive unfinished basement features storage rooms, a family room with a second fireplace, high ceilings, and a full bath. Above the garage, with private entry, is a studio apartment complete with a closet, kitchen, and full bath. Words can’t describe the grounds… a rocked trail wraps around the point, offering lake views from the back and both sides. Even better, enjoy an easy stroll to your own private covered lakefront deck and composite dock.

5162 Beech Bluff Drive, Morganton

Listing courtesy of WNC Real Estate at Lake James. ChristieLeonardHomes@gmail.com
$995,000
4355387 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Attention Developers, take a look at this hard to find approx 77 acres of rolling topography within minutes of downtown Morganton or Glen Alpine or Beautiful Lake James. This property offers approx 1280' of paved road frontage on Hwy 70 and approx 2100' of river frontage with amazing long range views of Table Rock and Shortoff mountains. This could be your own private estate or multi housing community. Tons of possibilities! Call today for a private showing. Buyer agents welcome. $1,150,000

Carbon City Road, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Newton RE. timnewton@cbnewtonrealestate.com
$395,000
4349838 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Experience Lake James living from the ground up on this rare, waterfront homesite in sought-after Southpointe. This 0.96-acre lot at 1590 Hawks Pointe Lane offers a gently sloping, wooded setting that naturally lends itself to a luxury home with a walkout lower level and expansive outdoor living to capture serene cove views and year-round privacy. With its generous width, topography, and utilities available at the street, the site is a ready canvas for an architect-designed retreat that feels both elevated and effortless. This lot is also listed under a proposed construction listing at MLS#4354550. Tucked into a quiet cove, the property includes an existing private dock, giving you immediate access to boating, paddling, fishing, and sunset cruises without ever leaving your backyard. The slope from street to shoreline allows for a dramatic arrival at road level, then an easy flow down through terraces, covered porches, and potentially an infinity-edge pool toward the water’s edge. Mature trees frame the homesite and help preserve a sense of seclusion while still placing you in one of Lake James’ most established communities. Located in the Southpointe neighborhood on the shores of Lake James, this lot is surrounded by custom homes and thoughtfully maintained common areas. Community amenities include a lakeside pool, clubhouse, and walking trails, giving owners multiple ways to enjoy the lake lifestyle beyond their own dock. Wide, well-kept streets and carefully curated architecture create a cohesive streetscape that supports long-term property values and a true neighborhood feel instead of a transient vacation environment. Southpointe’s covenants and architectural guidelines are designed to protect both aesthetics and investment. The community is restricted to single-family residences, with minimum square footage requirements and an architectural review process for all new construction and significant exterior changes. No manufactured homes, RVs as permanent residences, or commercial uses are allowed. Setback, design, and material standards encourage high-quality construction and a harmonious look among homes, while still allowing each owner to express an individual style. Everyday conveniences are within easy reach. Morganton’s shops, restaurants, and services are a short drive away, with regional destinations like Hickory and Asheville accessible for work, health care, and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to state parks, hiking and biking trails, and other Lake James access points, creating a four-season playground at your doorstep. Yet when you return home, the cove setting and wooded surroundings bring a sense of calm that feels far from busy corridors. For buyers, architects, and builders seeking a premier Lake James homesite with a balance of privacy, community, and design control, this Southpointe lot is an outstanding opportunity. Bring your builder, your plans, or your imagination and design a home that steps down the hillside to the water, with walls of glass, generous porches, and indoor-outdoor spaces that make the most of this special setting. Schedule a walking tour of the property to experience the lay of the land and begin envisioning your own custom retreat on Lake James.

1590 Hawks Pointe Lane, Morganton

Listing courtesy of Faith Parker Properties, LLC. info@shereebyrdrealtor.com
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