Belews Lake is the Triad’s closest big lake, a Duke Energy reservoir of about 3,864 acres with roughly 88 miles of shoreline where Forsyth, Stokes, Rockingham and Guilford counties meet. It was created in 1973 as a cooling lake for the Belews Creek Steam Station and today is popular for boating, paddling, swimming and fishing.
Because so much of the shoreline is undeveloped, waterfront homes on Belews Lake don’t come up often. Here’s what to know before you buy.
Waterfront vs. water access
A true waterfront lot touches the shoreline. Water-access homes may share a community dock or boat ramp, or sit across a road from the lake. Read the deed, plat and any HOA documents to see exactly what rights come with the property.
Docks and shoreline rules
Docks, piers and shoreline changes on a Duke Energy lake are subject to its shoreline management rules and permits. Before you buy, confirm whether an existing dock is permitted and what you could build on that specific lot.
Water depth and the view
Visit at different times. Depth at the end of the dock, sun exposure and the view from the house can vary a lot from cove to main channel.
Getting there
Public access points include Piney Bluff in Forsyth County off NC 65 and the Pine Hall boat launch in Stokes County. Many Belews Lake homes are about a 30-minute drive from Winston-Salem or Greensboro.
Insurance and inspections
Ask about flood zone status and insurance early. Inspect docks, seawalls, septic systems and any lower-level living space carefully.
Personal home search
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