Olympia State Forest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Olympia State Forest Dam, also known as Olympia State Forest Lake, is a privately owned recreational dam located in Bath, Kentucky.


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Summary

Constructed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 300 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. Situated on the Clark Fork River, this dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 5.9 acres for visitors to enjoy various water-based activities.

Managed and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, the Olympia State Forest Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While it has not been inspected since 2005, the dam is subject to regular state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its relatively small drainage area of 0.12 square miles, the dam provides a tranquil recreational spot for locals and tourists alike to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding forest and waterways.

With its uncontrolled spillway and minimal associated structures, the Olympia State Forest Dam offers a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the diverse landscapes of Bath, Kentucky. As a privately owned recreational facility, this dam presents a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation and relaxation, attracting visitors to its serene waters and scenic surroundings along the Clark Fork River. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, ongoing state oversight ensures that the dam remains a safe and enjoyable destination for all who appreciate the beauty of nature.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CLARK FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.9

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

66

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.