The lake is deep with few shallow water hazards and those are marked with bouys. During heavy rains, logs and tree limbs wash over the Tuckertown dam and end up in the lake. Running over this floating debris can trash a propeller or outboard. If a boater does break down someone is usually around to offer a tow. It is the code of the lake.
Thunderstorms can blow in with little warning and create dangerous lightning conditions.
Smart boaters seek safety in a sheltered cove until the storm blows over - which usually doesn't take long. Canoes or other small craft, especially those with inexperienced operators, could have problems with the wind. Lakeside camping is exceptional on the National Forest shoreline. Whole families camp from their boats and swim, fish, explore and sunbathe all they want. Cabin-cruisers, sailboats and houseboats can drop anchor and spend peaceful nights tucked away in the forested bays of the Uwharrie National Forest.