Rayconda Lake Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rayconda Lake Lower Dam, also known as Keith Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Hope Mills, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands 24.2 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet for recreational purposes. The dam spans 600 feet across Little Rockfish Creek-Tr and covers a surface area of 7 acres, serving as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its age, Rayconda Lake Lower Dam is in fair condition with a low hazard potential, as assessed in 2012. It is regularly inspected by state authorities, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure for public use. The dam does not fall under state regulation or permitting, but it is subject to state inspection to maintain its operational efficiency. With a drainage area of 365 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting recreational activities in the region.

Located in Cumberland County, North Carolina, Rayconda Lake Lower Dam is an integral part of the local ecosystem, providing valuable storage and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam continues to be a symbol of environmental stewardship and sustainable water management practices in the area.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

600

River Or Stream

Little Rockfish Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

365

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

24.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.