Hickory Hills Recreation Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hickory Hills Recreation Dam, located in La Porte City, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a recreational hub for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 1030 feet, providing a surface area of 39.2 acres and a drainage area of 1.27 square miles. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 760 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 363 acre-feet, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Hickory Hills Recreation Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Although it has a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to moderate risk, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk assessment and management measures. With its uncontrolled spillway type and proximity to Wolf Creek, the dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, demonstrating the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience in the region.
As a focal point for water-based activities and environmental stewardship, the Hickory Hills Recreation Dam embodies the balance between human recreation and natural preservation. With its scenic location, diverse wildlife, and ample storage capacity, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation. Whether engaging in outdoor recreation or studying the impact of climate change on water systems, visitors to Hickory Hills Recreation Dam can appreciate the beauty of nature while learning about the interconnected dynamics of water resources and climate resilience in Iowa's Tama County.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1030 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39.2 |
Drainage Area |
1.27 |
Nid Storage |
760 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wolf Creek Near Dysart
|
35cfs |
Black Hawk Creek At Hudson
|
103cfs |
Cedar River At Waterloo
|
2090cfs |
Cedar River At Cedar Falls
|
1880cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Wapsipinicon River At Independence
|
168cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hickory Hills Park - La Porte City
|
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T. F. Clark Co Park
|
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McFarlane Park
|
Hickory Hills Recreation Dam