Rocky Fork Lake Dam (Upper) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Rocky Fork Lake Dam (Upper) in Indiana is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 250 feet, with a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Rocky Fork Creek in Parke County, the dam maintains a surface area of 3.5 acres and drains a small watershed area of 0.05 square miles.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2011, it is subject to regular inspections by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates. The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based recreational activities. With its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam provides a crucial balance between water resource management and public safety, ensuring a sustainable environment for both humans and wildlife.
Overall, Rocky Fork Lake Dam (Upper) stands as an important infrastructure for recreation and water management in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its functional purpose, makes it a key feature in the local landscape. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Rocky Fork Lake Dam will be crucial in ensuring the continued availability of water for both recreational and ecological purposes.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY ROCKY FORK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Rocky Fork Lake Dam (Upper)