Cox Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buford Lake Dam Robinson Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Miller, Arkansas, Cox Lake Dam was completed in 1951 and serves as a private flood risk reduction structure along the McKinney Bayou Tributary.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a dam height of 20.9 feet and a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, this earth-type dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam covers a surface area of 5.7 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, making it an essential component of the local water resource management system.
Despite its low hazard potential, Cox Lake Dam has not been rated for its current condition. It is not regulated by the state and does not require regular inspections, enforcement, or permitting. The dam is situated in a picturesque location in Mandeville, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. While it may not be as large or well-known as other dams in the area, Cox Lake Dam is a vital piece of infrastructure that contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Arkansas.
Although Cox Lake Dam is privately owned and not under federal jurisdiction, its role in flood risk reduction cannot be understated. With its strategic location and modest yet effective design, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of local water resource management in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities along the McKinney Bayou Tributary. As climate change continues to impact the region, structures like Cox Lake Dam will play an increasingly crucial role in protecting against the potential threat of flooding and preserving the natural environment for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
20.9 |
River Or Stream |
MCKINNEY BAYOU TRIB |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.13 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Red River At Index
|
1770cfs |
Sulphur Rv Nr Texarkana
|
576cfs |
Red River At Spring Bank
|
7140cfs |
Anderson Ck At Hwy 98 Nr Simms
|
398cfs |
Saline River Near Lockesburg
|
73cfs |
Little River Near Horatio
|
3450cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Four States Fairgrounds RV
|
||
Allens Ferry at Little River
|
||
Hervey Access Camping
|
Cox Lake Dam
Bramble Park
Hobo Jungle Park
Kidtopia Park
Vera Bradfield Park
Little River Wildlife Management Area