Lake Bailey Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Bailey, located in Petit Jean State Park in Conway, Arkansas, is a gravity dam completed in 1940 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 1,842 acre-feet, this dam on Cedar Creek covers a surface area of 64 acres and serves as a popular spot for water activities and relaxation. While the dam is state-regulated and inspected, its hazard potential is rated as significant, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, Lake Bailey offers a serene escape for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The dam's construction and design reflect a commitment to both functionality and environmental stewardship, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of those who frequent this picturesque water resource. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, efforts are made to maintain the dam's integrity and respond swiftly to any emergency situations that may arise.

With its scenic location and vital role in providing recreational opportunities, Lake Bailey stands as a testament to the beauty and importance of water resources in the face of climate challenges. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, we must continue to support the sustainable management and conservation of dams like Lake Bailey to ensure their continued benefit to both people and the environment.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

64

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

6.4

Nid Storage

1842

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.