Lake Murphysboro Dam, located in Jackson County, Illinois, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1947 with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, standing at 46 feet tall and stretching 590 feet in length, creates the picturesque Lake Murphysboro, providing a surface area of 166 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With a maximum storage capacity of 4,281 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.8 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is in moderate risk condition. Regular inspections, with a frequency of every three years, help ensure the dam's safety and functionality. The St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the dam, working in conjunction with state agencies like the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to regulate, inspect, and enforce dam safety measures. Lake Murphysboro Dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource management and recreational activities in the area.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB BIG MUDDY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
166 |
Drainage Area |
2.8 |
Nid Storage |
4281 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
46 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Murphysboro State Park
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Turkey Bayou
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Johnson Creek Campground
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Johnson Creek
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Devils Backbone Park
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