Summit Lake State Park Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Summit Lake State Park Dam, also known as Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
20, is a captivating earth dam located in Henry County, Indiana. Completed in 1981, this dam stands at a height of 64 feet and spans a length of 3150 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 15,900 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, including fish and wildlife pond activities, in addition to providing flood control and water resource management for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Summit Lake State Park Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential due to its location on the Big Blue River, the dam is classified as being in satisfactory condition. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 4,900 cubic feet per second, further highlighting its importance in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Summit Lake State Park Dam offers a fascinating example of how dams can serve multiple purposes beyond flood control. Its scenic location and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities amidst Indiana's natural beauty. As a key component of the local ecosystem and water management infrastructure, this dam plays a crucial role in balancing the needs of the community while preserving the environment for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
3150 |
Dam Height |
64 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
815 |
Hydraulic Height |
64 |
Drainage Area |
11.5 |
Nid Storage |
25550 |
Structural Height |
64 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
64 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Summit Lake State Park Dam