Camp Grier Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Camp Grier Dam, located in McDowell County, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this concrete dam on Mill Creek provides a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet and a hydraulic height of 30 feet, making it an essential feature for the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by a private entity, Camp Grier Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. With a structural height of 31 feet and a length of 125 feet, the dam presents a high hazard potential but maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2018. In the event of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan readiness and risk assessment measures are yet to be fully disclosed, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts admire the beauty and functionality of Camp Grier Dam, they are reminded of the delicate balance between harnessing water for recreation and safeguarding against potential risks. With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, this structure serves as a beacon of responsible dam construction and maintenance, highlighting the importance of ongoing regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
125 |
River Or Stream |
Mill Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
27 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Catawba Falls Campground, LLC
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Curtis Creek Campground
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Curtis Creek
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Blue Ridge Parkway Tent
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BPW
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Briar Bottom Campground
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Camp Grier Dam