Wilderness Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Wilderness Lake Dam, located in Sleeper, Missouri, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1972, the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 364 acre-feet. With a surface area of 20 acres and a drainage area of 240 square miles, the dam holds normal storage of 210 acre-feet, serving as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities.

Managed by the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Wilderness Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam serves as a vital recreational asset for the local community. Although lacking specific data on spillway type and width, the dam remains an important feature in the TR-Bear Creek watershed, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

With a serene location in Laclede County, Missouri, Wilderness Lake Dam provides a tranquil setting for nature lovers to explore the beauty of the surrounding area. While lacking some detailed information on its design and maintenance, the dam's historical significance and contribution to the local ecosystem make it a noteworthy destination for those interested in water resource management and climate conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

364

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.