Located in Hinsdale, Colorado, Williams Creek is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 84 feet and has a storage capacity of 14,543 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Williams Creek, with a drainage area of 36 square miles and a maximum discharge of 4,100 cubic feet per second.
With a spillway width of 40 feet and a surface area of 343 acres, Williams Creek Dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam features two valve outlet gates and is inspected annually for safety measures. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam provides essential benefits for fish and wildlife habitat as well as recreational activities in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Creek offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
84 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
343 |
Hydraulic Height |
84 |
Drainage Area |
36 |
Nid Storage |
14543 |
Structural Height |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
100 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Teal
|
||
Williams Creek - Pagosa Springs
|
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Teal Campground
|
||
Cimarrona
|
||
Cimarrona Campground
|
||
Palisades Campground
|
Middle Fork--Headwaters To Weminuche Wilderness Boundary
Ef/Middle Fork At Weminuche Wilderness Boundary To Forest Development Road 631
East Fork--Unnamed Ponds Approx 1/4 Mile Below Continental Divide To Weminuche Wilderness Boundary
Sierra Vandera--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
Flint Creek--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
Snowslide Canyon Creek--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos