Indian Springs State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Springs State Park Lake Dam, also known as Chief Mcintosh Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Indian Springs, Georgia.


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Summary

Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and spans 744 feet across Big Sandy Creek. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 1440 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 2690 acre-feet.

Managed by the Georgia Safe Dams Program, Indian Springs State Park Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam has a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of its last inspection in 2016. With a drainage area of 11,200 acres and a surface area of 105 acres, the dam provides recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital structure for water resource management in the region.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Indian Springs State Park Lake Dam remains a key feature in the area, offering both environmental benefits and recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The dam's historical significance, combined with its functional role in water storage and flood control, makes it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

744

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

Big Sandy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

105

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

11200

Nid Storage

2690

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.