Tarryall Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wildwood Bayou Salado
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Tarryall Dam, located in Park County, Colorado, is a gravity dam completed in 1929 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 37 feet, with a total structural height of 70 feet and a length of 263 feet. It impounds Tarryall Creek, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 7,217 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1,963 acre-feet. The dam also features a spillway with an uncontrolled type and a width of 180 feet.
Despite its recreational significance, Tarryall Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment in March 2020. The dam is under state jurisdiction and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The risk assessment for Tarryall Dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational users and downstream communities.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Tarryall Dam an intriguing subject for study and monitoring. Its historical significance, structural design, and risk profile provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. As a recreational asset in a picturesque location, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure, natural ecosystems, and the challenges of maintaining water security in a dynamic environment.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
263 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TARRYALL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
165 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
355 |
Nid Storage |
7217 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
70 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Lost Park Campground
|
||
Lost Park
|
||
Twin Eagles Campground
|
||
Twin Eagles
|
||
Camp Indigo
|
||
Spruce Grove - Lake George
|
Tarryall