Pennyrile Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Pennyrile Lake, located in Pennyrile Forest State Park in Christian, Kentucky, is a state-owned reservoir built in 1940 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The lake has a gravity dam with a height of 30 feet and a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 691 acre-feet and a surface area of 47.1 acres. Situated on Clifty Creek, the lake is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Pennyrile Lake offers visitors a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The reservoir's moderate risk assessment rating indicates a manageable level of risk, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential issues. Managed by the state of Kentucky, the lake serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community and contributes to the overall beauty and enjoyment of Pennyrile Forest State Park.
Visitors to Pennyrile Lake can appreciate the natural surroundings and diverse wildlife while engaging in water-based recreational activities. With its scenic views and well-maintained facilities, the lake is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates alike who seek to enjoy the outdoors and support responsible conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
CLIFTY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
47.1 |
Drainage Area |
3.31 |
Nid Storage |
691 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tradewater River At Olney
|
30cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
41cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2760cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
2210cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
38cfs |
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.
Pennyrile Lake