Belews Lake NC: The Complete Family Day Trip Guide (2026)

If you’ve lived in the Triad your whole life and haven’t been to Belews Lake yet, you’re not alone — and that’s exactly why we’re writing this. It’s one of the most underrated family day trips in the area. Beautiful, warm, accessible from all four corners of the Triad, and closer than most people realize. About 30 minutes from Winston-Salem. About 40 minutes from Greensboro.

This guide covers everything you need to plan a great family day trip to Belews Lake — water sports, boat access, the brand-new Forsyth County park, where to eat, where to stay, and all the practical details that make the difference between a great day and a frustrating one.

Quick Facts About Belews Lake

Belews Lake is a 3,863-acre Duke Energy reservoir sitting at the junction of four NC counties — Forsyth, Guilford, Stokes, and Rockingham. That “four corners” location makes it genuinely convenient to reach from anywhere in the Triad.

• Size: 3,863 acres | 88 miles of shoreline
• Depth: Up to 130 feet by the dam; approximately 100 feet in northern areas
• Location: Forsyth, Guilford, Stokes, and Rockingham counties
• Drive time from Winston-Salem: Approximately 30 minutes
• Drive time from Greensboro: Approximately 40 minutes
• Main access roads: US Route 158 and NC Highway 65

The warm water advantage: Because Belews Lake serves as a cooling source for the Belews Creek Steam Station, its water runs noticeably warmer than most NC lakes. Some areas can reach the 80s in summer — significantly warmer than other Triad-area lakes. Even in late September the water stays in the high 70s, extending the usable season well past Labor Day.

A note on water quality: Belews Lake has a documented history of selenium contamination from coal ash wastewater released by the adjacent Duke Energy plant beginning in 1974. Duke Energy has addressed the ash pond issue over time. If you have questions about current water quality, check with the NC Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ) for current conditions before swimming, particularly with young children.

Getting There

The main access roads are US Route 158 and NC Highway 65. There are four public access points around the lake:

• Piney Bluff Access — Southern part of the lake, Forsyth County. Entrance on NC Highway 65. Closest to Winston-Salem. Free launch.
• Pine Hall Boat Launch — Western-northwestern part, Stokes County. Entrance from Pine Hall Road. More remote, often less crowded.
• Carolina Marina — Northern part, Rockingham County. Fee for use. Full marina services, boat sales, and service facilities.
• Humphreys Ridge Marina — Eastern side, Rockingham County. Marina, campground, and grill on-site.

Pro tip: Download your directions before heading out. Cell service can be spotty in the more rural areas around the lake, particularly near the northern and eastern access points.

Water Sports with H2O Sports Life

H2O Sports Life Address: 1020 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284 Facebook: facebook.com/H2OSportsLife Instagram: @h2osportslife

H2O Sports Life is the only company on the lake that lets the public try out water sports — and for families who don’t own a boat, they’re the key to experiencing Belews Lake the way it’s meant to be experienced. Services include wakeboarding, water skiing, kneeboarding, tubing, and jet ski rentals.

Why they work well for families with kids:

• They know which coves and areas of the lake are calm enough for beginners — critical on a lake where boat traffic can kick up rough water during peak summer months. Taking first-timers and kids to sheltered areas makes the experience significantly safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
• Carolina Marina (where they dock) has real restrooms on-site — not a port-a-potty. Small detail, big deal when you’re out for the day with kids.
• Water sports camps: H2O Sports Life offers full-day and weekend camps for those who want a deeper experience on the water. A great option for older kids and teens who want to actually get good at wakeboarding or water skiing.
• Wakeboarding note: Getting up on the board takes time and patience — especially for kids and beginners. H2O Sports Life is consistently praised for exactly that patience. Don’t rush it.
• Book ahead: Contact via Facebook or Instagram to check current availability, pricing, and scheduling. Summer weekends fill up quickly.

Boat Ramps, Marinas & Lake Access

Carolina Marina

Northern part of the lake in Rockingham County. H2O Sports Life docks here. Full marina services including boat sales, service, and real restrooms. Fee applies for launch and docking.

Humphreys Ridge Marina & Campground

Address: 435 Humphreys Ridge Dr, Stokesdale, NC 27357 Phone: (336) 427-3949

The more casual and community-feel option. Most campers have trailers permanently set up and rented seasonally, giving it the atmosphere of a little lakeside neighborhood rather than a commercial marina. Boat ramp access, gas, and the Humphreys Ridge Grill on-site (see Where to Eat below).

Piney Bluff Access

Free public boat launch on the southern end of the lake in Forsyth County off NC Highway 65. Most convenient for Winston-Salem families putting a kayak, canoe, or small watercraft in the water without marina fees.

Pine Hall Boat Launch

Public launch on the western-northwestern side in Stokes County off Pine Hall Road. More remote and typically less crowded than Piney Bluff.

The New Forsyth County Park at Belews Lake — Opened Spring 2025

This is one of the most significant developments at Belews Lake in years — and great news for families who want to experience the lake without a boat.

Forsyth County purchased over 200 acres from Duke Energy to build a lakeside park on the southern shore near Belews Creek Road and Craig Road. The park opened in Spring 2025 and is currently in Phase 1.

What’s available now — free admission:

• Walking trails
• Picnic areas
• Lake overlook views
• Fishing dock access

This is the first meaningful public green space with direct lake access on Belews Lake that doesn’t require a boat, a marina fee, or any reservation. Walk in, enjoy the lake, fish from the dock, have a picnic.

More development is planned in future phases. Check Forsyth County Parks for current hours and updates as the park grows.

Location: Near Belews Creek Road and Craig Road, Forsyth County, off NC Highway 65 near the Piney Bluff access area.

Fishing at Belews Lake

Belews Lake is well-regarded among Triad anglers, with consistent bass fishing being the primary draw. Other common catches include catfish, crappie, and panfish.

Where to fish:

• Free bank fishing from the dock at the new Forsyth County Park — no boat required
• Pier fishing at Humphreys Ridge Marina
• From a boat using any of the four public launch ramps

A valid NC fishing license is required. Available at Walmart, sporting goods stores, or online at ncwildlife.org.

See our Best Fishing Spots in the Triad guide for more Triad-area fishing options.

Where to Eat Near Belews Lake

Humphreys Ridge Grill — Lakeside Classic

Address: 473-499 Humphreys Ridge Dr, Stokesdale, NC 27357 Phone: (336) 427-3949 Hours: Friday 11am–7pm | Saturday & Sunday 11am–4pm Closed Monday through Thursday

The Humphreys Ridge Grill is a straightforward, welcoming lakeside spot — the kind of place that’s been feeding boaters and families for years without pretension. Cheeseburgers, hand-breaded chicken tenders (notably generous portions), chili cheese fries, hot dogs, sandwiches, and ice cream. Indoor and outdoor seating with lake views. Prices are fair and the food consistently delivers.

The most important thing to know: The grill is only open three days a week — Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Closed Monday through Thursday. Plan your waterside meal accordingly or you’ll arrive to find the kitchen dark.

Pack a Picnic

The new Forsyth County Park has picnic areas with lake views — a perfect setting for a packed lunch any day of the week, with no food or time restrictions.

Nearby Restaurants

Kernersville is 15–20 minutes south of the Piney Bluff access area and has a solid local restaurant scene. See our Cheap and Free Things to Do in Kernersville guide for recommendations.

Where to Stay at Belews Lake

Humphreys Ridge Family Campground

Address: 435 Humphreys Ridge Dr, Stokesdale, NC 27357 Phone: (336) 427-3949

Seasonal camping with direct lake access and the on-site grill. Most sites are rented seasonally by regulars, but it’s worth calling to check availability if an overnight stay sounds appealing.

ColdWater at Belews Lake

Website: coldwater.life

A vacation rental property located just 3 minutes from the Piney Bluff Boat Launch with direct lake access. The property describes natural coves and islands for sheltered beginner water use, long stretches of open water for jet skiing and tubing, and a smooth open area south of the property suited for water skiing. One of the best options for families who want to make Belews Lake a weekend rather than just a day trip.

Tips for Your Belews Lake Family Day Trip

• Start with the new Forsyth County Park. Free, no reservation required, lake views, picnic tables, and a fishing dock. A perfect first stop to get oriented on the lake before deciding what else to add to the day.
• Book H2O Sports Life ahead for weekends. They’re the only public water sports operator on the lake and summer weekends fill up fast. Reach out via Facebook or Instagram well before your trip.
• The Humphreys Ridge Grill is Friday–Sunday only. If you’re visiting on a weekday and counting on that lakeside burger, pack your own lunch instead.
• Download directions before leaving the main road. Cell service disappears in parts of the lake area. Know your route before you lose signal.
• Reapply sunscreen on the water. The combination of sun reflection off the water and open sky means you burn significantly faster on the lake than you expect.
• Late season visits are great here. Belews Lake’s warmer-than-average water means late September and early October are still excellent for water activities — a real advantage over colder lakes in the region.
• For families with young kids not ready for water sports: The new Forsyth County Park’s trails, picnic areas, and fishing dock are perfect. Bank fishing at no cost is a complete afternoon activity for elementary-age kids.
• Combine Belews Lake with Kernersville. The two are 15–20 minutes apart. A morning at the lake plus an afternoon at Körner’s Folly, the Ciener Botanical Garden, or Triad Park makes a full and affordable Triad day.

Sample Belews Lake Family Day

Morning: Arrive at the new Forsyth County Park — lake views, walking trails, bank fishing from the dock (free) Mid-morning: Drive to H2O Sports Life area — wakeboarding, tubing, or jet skiing on the lake Lunch: Humphreys Ridge Grill if visiting Fri–Sun, or packed picnic at the park Afternoon: More time on the water or explore the lake’s coves, then head toward Kernersville Evening: Dinner in Kernersville or drive home

Total day cost for a non-boat-owning family: Park visit free, H2O Sports Life pricing varies by activity, Humphreys Ridge Grill budget-friendly. One of the most affordable full water days in the Triad.

FAQs About Belews Lake NC

How far is Belews Lake from Winston-Salem and Greensboro?

Approximately 30 minutes from most of Winston-Salem via US Route 158 or NC Highway 65. About 40 minutes from Greensboro.

Why is Belews Lake warmer than other NC lakes?

Belews Lake serves as a cooling source for the Belews Creek Steam Station, which keeps water temperatures higher than most NC lakes. Some areas reach the 80s in summer. Even in late September water stays in the high 70s — extending the comfortable water season significantly.

Is it safe to swim in Belews Lake?

Belews Lake has a documented history of selenium contamination from coal ash wastewater from the adjacent Duke Energy plant beginning in 1974. Duke Energy has addressed the ash pond issue over time. Check current water quality with NC DEQ before swimming, especially with young children.

Where can I launch a boat at Belews Lake?

Four public access points: Piney Bluff (Forsyth County, free, off NC-65), Pine Hall Boat Launch (Stokes County, off Pine Hall Rd), Carolina Marina (Rockingham County, fee applies), and Humphreys Ridge Marina (Rockingham County, eastern shore).

Is there a free park at Belews Lake?

Yes — Forsyth County opened a new park on the southern shore in Spring 2025 with walking trails, picnic areas, lake views, and a fishing dock. Free admission. Located near Belews Creek Road and Craig Road off NC-65. More phases planned.

Can you rent a jet ski or do water sports at Belews Lake?

Yes — H2O Sports Life (Kernersville-based, docking at Carolina Marina) is the only commercial water sports operator on the lake, offering jet ski rentals, wakeboarding, water skiing, kneeboarding, and tubing. Contact via Facebook or Instagram for current pricing and availability.

What are the hours at Humphreys Ridge Grill?

Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am–4pm. Closed Monday through Thursday. Always call ahead at (336) 427-3949 to confirm.

What kind of fish can you catch at Belews Lake?

Largemouth bass is the primary draw for anglers. Catfish, crappie, and panfish are also commonly caught. A valid NC fishing license is required.

Looking for more Triad outdoor day trip ideas? See our Best Fishing Spots in the Triad, Best Lakes in NC for Boating, Best Swimming Holes & Watering Holes in NC, Cheap and Free Things to Do in Kernersville, and our Outdoor Activities Guide for the Triad.

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