Spooky Hollow (Lower)Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spooky Hollow (Lower) Dam, also known as Spooky Hollow Lake, is a privately owned recreational dam located in Nelson County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 520 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres, providing ample space for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Spooky Hollow Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in fair condition as of its last assessment in April 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is monitored regularly to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Situated on Lick Creek, this picturesque dam offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while enjoying various recreational activities. Its uncontrolled spillway and strategic location make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Kentucky's water resources and scenic landscapes.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.64

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.