Spooky Hollow Upper Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Nelson, Kentucky, the Spooky Hollow Upper Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity, with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1936.
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Summary
This private dam, known for its primary purpose of recreation, boasts an earth dam type with a height of 21 feet and a length of 370 feet. The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.7 acres, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, the Spooky Hollow Upper Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspection, enforcement, and permitting to ensure public safety. Despite its significant hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition assessment, the dam continues to be a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 12 feet, adds to the allure of the dam's scenic surroundings and offers a glimpse into the unique blend of natural beauty and man-made infrastructure.
With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of periodic inspections, the Spooky Hollow Upper Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the delicate balance between human intervention and environmental preservation. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's structural integrity, its role in providing recreational opportunities and regulating water flow along Lick Creek remains a testament to the enduring significance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climates and evolving regulatory frameworks.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
LICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
121 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rolling Fork Near Boston
|
449cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Long Lick At Clermont
|
1cfs |
Cedar Creek At Hwy 1442 Near Shepherdsville
|
5cfs |
Salt River At Shepherdsville
|
716cfs |
Beech Fork At Maud
|
101cfs |
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.
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