Squaw Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Squaw Lake, located in Hinsdale, Colorado, is a federally owned reservoir managed by the Forest Service for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and a normal storage of 122 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 19 acres and is fed by Squaw Creek, offering visitors a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Squaw Lake is considered a safe and well-maintained recreational site. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, regular inspections by the Forest Service ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Despite its small drainage area of 1 square mile, Squaw Lake can discharge up to 120 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway, providing a unique hydrological feature in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Squaw Lake for its historical significance, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. Situated in a remote location near 30 Mile Campground and Trailhead, visitors to the lake can enjoy fishing, hiking, and camping while admiring the surrounding natural landscape. As a regulated and permitted reservoir, Squaw Lake exemplifies responsible water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SQUAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

162

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.