Belews Lake
Spanning approximately 3,864 acres with about 88 miles of shoreline, Belews Lake is a reservoir created in 1973 across Stokes, Rockingham, Guilford, and Forsyth counties. With depths exceeding 100 feet in places and pristine scenic views, the lake supports a variety of fish species—including largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more—making it a top regional spot for winter bass fishing due to its consistently warm water discharge.
Public Boat Ramps:
- Carolina Marina Boat Launch – Located in Rockingham County, northeast corner, near Shelton Road. Multi-lane concrete ramp with ample paved parking and docking, including marina amenities (fuel, store, rentals).
- Piney Bluff Boat Launch – Situated in Forsyth County on the southwestern shoreline, accessed off Belews Creek Road (NC 65). Two-lane concrete ramp with a dock, paved parking, and on-site restrooms.
- Pine Hall Public Boat Ramp – In Stokes County, the northwest part of the lake off Pine Hall Road. One-lane concrete ramp with dock and paved parking; nearest to Duke Energy’s Belews Creek Steam Station.
- Humphrey’s Ridge Boat Ramp – Located in Rockingham County on the eastern shore. Offers public launch access and is part of a full-service marina complex, including dining and boat storage.
Nearby Places to Explore
Location & Map
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Google Reviews
Brittney HeimannI love going on this lake! It is usually warm because of the power plant. It is a really large lake with plenty of room. We go out on friends pontoon boat and jet ski! Lots of good places to post up and fish or kayaking!
Jul 10, 2019 · Google Review
Ronald BartonThis place I struggle to find a public access point but I did find a few boat ramps and took the time to take some beautiful photos. If you're out around this area you must stop and check out the water and the beautiful views.
Jan 17, 2023 · Google Review
Miss TariI love this lake. I've been to Badin, High Rock, and Brandt lake too. Out of all of them this is the most easily accessible lake! There's quite a few entry points as well. We've been kayaking here for years, from when we first started. There's an island we usually go to on kayaks that has a sandy floor around it. There's also a 'sand bar' to hang out on near a 'danger' marked buoy. I'd wear shoes just in case, because some of the entry points are a bit rocky. I just wish boat folks wouldn't park at the only entry points of islands, since kayakers don't have a lot of options of how to get them on land.
Jun 8, 2021 · Google Review
Mark BadgettThe Belews Lake is a good recreational area. I used to sail there .Though it is still great I would advise against eating fish caught.A throw back policy would be better due to possible contamination. Folk should clean up trash or be ticketed.Law enforcement does a good job regarding" Boating while impaired". Overall a good place.
May 25, 2019 · Google Review
Dan O'SullivanAwesome place to drop your boat off or go swimming. You can only swim in designated areas. The water is generally warm because it is used to kool the power plant. Not too crowded. Bring stuff for a picnic ..
Jun 1, 2018 · Google ReviewSign up to our newsletter
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