Upper Kinney Lake in Alpine County, California, is a privately owned dam managed by the California Department of Water Resources for the safety of dams. This earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and serves primarily for water supply, supporting irrigation and other water needs in the area. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 328 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 21 acres and draining a 0.28 square mile watershed.

Located near Markleeville, Upper Kinney Lake regulates Silver Creek, offering a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017. The dam has a hydraulic height of 22.5 feet and a length of 145 feet, providing essential water resources for the region. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2019 to ensure its safe operation and compliance with state regulations. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role of Upper Kinney Lake in sustaining water supply for agricultural and community needs in the area.