Lake Charles Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Helmerich Dam Lake William Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Charles Dam, located in Dubois County, Indiana, is a private structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet and spanning 175 feet in length, the dam provides a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Rock Creek, the dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.
Despite its modest size, Lake Charles Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and enhancing recreational opportunities in the area. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 116 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 0.03 square miles. While it does not have a spillway, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment indicate a proactive approach to ensuring public safety and mitigating potential hazards. With its picturesque location and well-maintained infrastructure, Lake Charles Dam serves as a vital asset for both water resource management and outdoor recreation enthusiasts in the region.
As part of the Louisville District, Lake Charles Dam is overseen by private owners and is subject to state regulations and inspections. The dam's proximity to residential areas underscores the importance of its risk management measures and emergency preparedness. With a focus on maintaining its integrity and functionality, Lake Charles Dam stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between water resources and climate enthusiasts, highlighting the need for sustainable infrastructure to support both recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts.
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Patoka River At Winslow
|
643cfs |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
756cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
3540cfs |
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
9cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
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.
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