El Capitan Res Nr Lakeside Ca Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

El Capitan Reservoir is located in Lakeside, California and was built in 1935 by the City of San Diego.


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Summary

The reservoir has a capacity of 112,800 acre-feet of water and is supplied by the El Capitan Dam on the San Diego River. The hydrology of the reservoir is primarily reliant on surface flow from the San Diego River and snowpack providers from the surrounding mountain ranges. The reservoir is used for agricultural purposes by local farmers and for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Over the years, El Capitan Reservoir has been a source of controversy due to disputes over water rights and water usage in the region. Despite the challenges, the reservoir remains an important source of water for the region and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change -0.01%
Percent of Normal 97%
Minimum 661.07 ft
2025-12-04
Maximum 744.51 ft
2011-05-04
Average 688 ft
Dam_Height 237
Hydraulic_Height 217
Drainage_Area 190
Year_Completed 1934
Nid_Storage 112800
River_Or_Stream San Diego River
Surface_Area 1562
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 1170
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 237
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

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.
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Area Campgrounds