Lone Star Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lone Star Lake, located in Douglas County, Kansas, is a concrete dam constructed in 1939 by Wilson and Company.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

As a local government-owned structure, it serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts, with a primary purpose of providing outdoor activities. With a height of 71 feet and a storage capacity of 5,600 acre-feet, the dam overlooks the serene waters of Washington Creek, offering a surface area of 194.7 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Lone Star Lake is regulated and inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition is assessed as fair, with regular inspections every three years. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water storage for the surrounding area and poses no immediate threat to public safety. For water enthusiasts seeking a picturesque setting for recreational activities, Lone Star Lake is a must-visit destination in the heart of Kansas.

As part of the Tulsa District, the dam at Lone Star Lake stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1930s, the dam continues to support a diverse range of wildlife and plant species in the surrounding area. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the lake while appreciating the engineering marvel that is the concrete buttress dam. Lone Star Lake remains a vital hub for outdoor recreation and a shining example of sustainable water management practices in action.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1700

Dam Height

71

River Or Stream

WASHINGTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

194.7

Hydraulic Height

60

Drainage Area

5.38

Nid Storage

5600

Structural Height

71

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

71
       
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.