Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunset Lake Dam, located in Holly Springs, North Carolina, is a private concrete gravity dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1923, this dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21 feet. With a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 626 acre-feet, Sunset Lake Dam offers a surface area of 98.1 acres for visitors to enjoy.

The dam, situated on Middle Creek, is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite being deemed to have a high hazard potential, the condition assessment conducted in November 2019 rated it as fair. The dam is subject to regular inspections, with the most recent one taking place in November 2019. Even though it does not have any associated locks or spillways, Sunset Lake Dam remains a significant feature in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With its rich history dating back almost a century, Sunset Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational spot in Wake County, North Carolina. This privately owned structure not only provides opportunities for outdoor activities but also underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and maintenance, Sunset Lake Dam remains a symbol of the intersection between human engineering and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

364

River Or Stream

Middle Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

98.1

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

13007.23

Nid Storage

750

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.