Lincoln Trail State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Lincoln Trail State Park Lake Dam, located in Hutsonsville, Illinois, is a state-owned structure designed by Laramore & Douglas, Inc.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1956, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 146 acres for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 52 feet and a length of 1050 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 3474 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1805 acre-feet.
The dam, built on Sandy Branch Creek, is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes state inspections and enforcement for safety compliance. With a high hazard potential due to its size and location, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite a moderate risk assessment rating, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, and the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status remains uncertain.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Lincoln Trail State Park Lake Dam can appreciate the recreational opportunities it provides while also being aware of the potential hazards associated with its high-risk classification. With its picturesque surroundings and historical significance as a vital water management infrastructure in Clark County, Illinois, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources for both safety and enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
SANDY BRANCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
146 |
Drainage Area |
3.3 |
Nid Storage |
3474 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
1770cfs |
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
1870cfs |
North Fork Embarras River Near Oblong
|
5cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
452cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
138cfs |
Embarras River At Ste. Marie
|
34cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lincoln Trail State Park Lake Dam