Forest Lake Camp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Forest Lake Camp Dam, located in Wapello, Iowa, along Turkey Creek, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1953.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a maximum height of 31 feet. The dam spans 335 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Forest Lake Camp Dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While its condition is currently not rated, the dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and there are no associated locks or outlet gates on the structure. With its picturesque location and ample storage capacity, the dam provides a serene setting for recreational activities along the Des Moines River.

Overall, Forest Lake Camp Dam is a well-maintained and regulated structure that offers a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its design by the USDA NRCS and oversight by the Iowa DNR ensure that the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of recreation while meeting state regulatory standards. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this earth dam on Turkey Creek provides a tranquil retreat for visitors to appreciate the beauty of Iowa's natural landscapes.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.