Amicalola Falls Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Amicalola Falls Lake Dam, located in Dawsonville, Georgia, is a state-owned structure designed by the State Highway Department in 1941 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 31 feet and a length of 500 feet, impounds the waters of Little Amicalola Creek to create a lake with a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled, contributing to its moderate risk assessment.

Situated within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Amicalola Falls Lake Dam offers visitors a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. With its picturesque setting and historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the dam provides a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty and recreational opportunities of this man-made reservoir. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, its role in facilitating leisure and enjoyment for the public remains a key aspect of its continued presence in the region.

As a vital part of the local landscape, Amicalola Falls Lake Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty. With its earth construction and buttress core, the dam stands as a testament to past engineering practices while offering a glimpse into the importance of water resources management for both recreational and practical purposes. Whether admiring the dam's design or partaking in the various activities available at the adjacent lake, visitors can appreciate the harmony between human intervention and the surrounding environment at Amicalola Falls Lake Dam.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

LITTLE AMICALOLA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

1280

Nid Storage

230

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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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.