Simonton Lake Near Elkhart Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Simonton Lake is located near Elkhart, Indiana and is a popular recreational spot for residents and visitors alike.


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Summary

The lake was created in the early 1900s by damming up the nearby Christiana Creek. The lake covers an area of 289 acres and has a maximum depth of 33 feet. Hydrologically, the lake is fed by several small streams and creeks, and its outflow leads to the St. Joseph River. In terms of surface flow, the lake is primarily supplied by runoff from nearby urban and agricultural areas. In the winter months, the lake is also fed by snowpack runoff. The lake is used for boating, fishing, and swimming, and the surrounding area features numerous picnic spots and public parks. Overall, Simonton Lake is an important part of the Indiana landscape, providing both recreational opportunities and ecological benefits.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change -0.66%
Percent of Normal 103%
Minimum 1.91 ft
2012-10-13
Maximum 3.35 ft
2008-02-07
Average 3 ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

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.