Pine Mountain State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pine Mountain State Park Lake Dam, also known as Lake Mistake, is a gravity dam located in Bell County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the Department of Parks, this state-owned structure serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene getaway for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 191 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres.

Situated on Clear Creek, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. In the event of an emergency, appropriate risk management measures are in place to address any potential concerns. Overall, Pine Mountain State Park Lake Dam presents a picturesque landscape for outdoor recreation while maintaining a commitment to safety and environmental preservation.

Visitors to Pine Mountain State Park can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the beautiful surroundings of the dam and its reservoir. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment add to the allure of this recreational area, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvel. Whether exploring the trails or simply admiring the scenic views, Pine Mountain State Park Lake Dam offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of nature and human ingenuity.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

191

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

29

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.