Lake Rudolph Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Christmas Lake Dam Lake Noel Dam
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
Lake Rudolph Dam, located in Indiana, is a private-owned structure regulating the flow of Crooked Creek.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 650 feet in length. The dam holds a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7.9 acres, providing a picturesque setting for water enthusiasts. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2004, the dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting biennial inspections to ensure public safety.
Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Lake Rudolph Dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 60 feet. Its outlet gates are equipped with slide mechanisms for water release management. The dam's hazard potential is categorized as high, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate risks. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers looking to enjoy the beauty of this man-made reservoir in Spencer, Indiana.
Overall, Lake Rudolph Dam serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the region, balancing the needs of recreation with the responsibility of ensuring public safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in regulating water flow and storage becomes increasingly significant. By adhering to state regulations and conducting routine inspections, Lake Rudolph Dam remains a valuable asset for the community, providing both leisure and protection in a changing climate landscape.
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
CROOKED CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
30cfs |
Ohio River At Cannelton Dam At Cannelton
|
101000cfs |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
166cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
170cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
4480cfs |
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.
Buckhorn Primitive Campground/ Youth Tent Area
Lake Lincoln Campground
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Lincoln State Park
Ferdinand State Forest
Lake Rudolph Dam
North 300 East 15029, Lincoln City