Best Lakes for Boating Near Greensboro, NC (2026 Guide)

Where to Go Boating Near Greensboro

If you’re looking to spend a summer day on the water, Greensboro is surrounded by excellent lakes for boating. Whether you’re interested in wakeboarding, tubing, fishing, pontoon cruising, jet skiing, or simply enjoying a relaxing day on the water, there are plenty of options within an hour or two of the city.

Some lakes allow full-power motorboats and watersports, while others offer a quieter experience with horsepower restrictions that make them ideal for fishing and nature lovers.

Here’s your guide to the best boating lakes near Greensboro.

Lakes That Allow Full-Power Motorboats

These lakes are ideal for:

Speed boats
Pontoon boats
Jet skis
Wakeboarding
Water skiing
Tubing

Badin Lake

Located about 1 hour south of Greensboro, Badin Lake is one of North Carolina’s most popular boating destinations.

With over 5,300 acres of water, Badin offers plenty of room for:

Speed boating
Wakeboarding
Water skiing
Tubing
Pontoon cruising
Fishing

The lake’s deep water and wide-open channels make it especially appealing for larger boats.

Best for: Watersports, pontoon boats, weekend getaways

Belews Lake

One of the closest large boating lakes to Greensboro, Belews Lake is a favorite among Triad residents.

Why boaters love it:

Deep, clear water
Powerboats welcome
Jet skis allowed
Excellent tubing conditions
Wakeboarding opportunities
Multiple marinas

The lake’s warm water temperatures make it especially popular during spring and fall.

Best for: Wakeboarding, tubing, jet skis, family boating

Related Reading: Check out our Day Trip to Belews Lake guide.

High Rock Lake

As North Carolina’s second-largest lake, High Rock Lake offers endless opportunities for boating and recreation.

Popular activities include:

Fishing
Water skiing
Tubing
Pontoon boating
Cruising

The lake is also known as one of North Carolina’s premier bass fishing destinations.

Best for: Fishing, family boating, all-day lake adventures

Lake Reidsville

Lake Reidsville is one of the most family-friendly boating lakes near Greensboro.

The lake allows:

Motorboats
Water skiing
Fishing boats
Recreational boating

Visitors will also find:

Boat ramp
Marina
Kayak rentals
Canoe rentals
Paddle boat rentals
Campgrounds

Best for: Families, beginner boaters, fishing trips

Lake Tillery

Located southeast of Greensboro, Lake Tillery is another excellent destination for boating enthusiasts.

Visitors enjoy:

Jet skiing
Wakeboarding
Tubing
Pontoon boating
Waterfront dining

Boats up to 32 feet are permitted, making it ideal for larger recreational vessels.

Best for: Watersports, lake weekends, larger boats

Salem Lake

While smaller than many other lakes on this list, Salem Lake offers a great boating experience for anglers.

Important note: Motorboats up to 60 horsepower are permitted, but boating is primarily intended for fishing access.

The calm water and controlled environment make it a great place for:

Fishing
Beginner boating
Family outings

Best for: Fishing, quiet boating, beginners

Lakes with Small Motor Restrictions

These lakes offer a more peaceful experience focused on fishing, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and low-speed cruising.

Lake Townsend

Lake Townsend is Greensboro’s largest municipal reservoir.

Motorboats are allowed with a 10-horsepower limit.

Visitors enjoy:

Fishing
Wildlife viewing
Nature photography
Quiet cruising

The lake’s large size makes it feel remote despite being located within Greensboro.

Best for: Fishing boats, trolling motors, nature lovers

Lake Higgins

Lake Higgins offers one of the most scenic and peaceful boating experiences in the Greensboro area.

Motorboats are limited to 10 horsepower.

Highlights include:

Calm water
Excellent fishing
Wildlife viewing
Less boat traffic

Best for: Relaxing afternoons on the water

Lake Brandt

Lake Brandt is one of Greensboro’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations.

Motorboats are limited to 10 horsepower.

The lake also offers:

Canoe rentals
Kayak rentals
Rowboat rentals
Paddleboard rentals
Fishing access

With over 800 acres of water, there’s plenty of shoreline to explore.

Best for: Fishing, paddling, family outings

Lake Mackintosh

Located in Burlington, Lake Mackintosh offers over 1,150 acres of water for boating and recreation.

Features include:

Public boat access
Picnic shelters
Walking trails
Playground
Fishing opportunities

Motorboats are permitted with horsepower restrictions that help preserve the lake’s quiet atmosphere.

Best for: Family boating, fishing, relaxing lake days

Oak Hollow Lake

Located in High Point, Oak Hollow Lake is a favorite among Triad boaters.

Visitors can enjoy:

Fishing boats
Small motorboats
Kayaks
Paddleboats
Canoes

The family-friendly park atmosphere includes:

Picnic shelters
Playground
Walking trails

Best for: Families, fishing, casual boating

Which Lake Is Best for You?

For Wakeboarding & Tubing

Belews Lake
Badin Lake
High Rock Lake
Lake Tillery

For Pontoon Boats

Badin Lake
High Rock Lake
Lake Tillery
Lake Reidsville

For Fishing

High Rock Lake
Lake Townsend
Lake Higgins
Salem Lake

For Families

Lake Reidsville
Oak Hollow Lake
Lake Mackintosh
Belews Lake

For Quiet Boating

Lake Brandt
Lake Higgins
Lake Townsend
Salem Lake

Boating Safety Tips

Before heading out on the water:

Always wear a life jacket
Check weather conditions
Bring plenty of water
Follow lake horsepower restrictions
Review local boating regulations
Tell someone your plans before launching

What lake near Greensboro allows jet skis?

Belews Lake, Lake Tillery, Badin Lake, and High Rock Lake all allow jet skis and other personal watercraft.

Where can I go tubing near Greensboro?

Belews Lake, High Rock Lake, Badin Lake, and Lake Tillery are some of the best tubing lakes near Greensboro.

Can you rent boats near Greensboro?

Yes. Several lakes including Lake Reidsville, Oak Hollow Lake, and Greensboro’s municipal lakes offer rental options.

What is the closest boating lake to Greensboro?

Lake Brandt, Lake Higgins, Lake Townsend, and Oak Hollow Lake are among the closest options.

What lake is best for families?

Lake Reidsville, Oak Hollow Lake, Lake Mackintosh, and Belews Lake are particularly family-friendly.