Camp Ridgecrest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Ridgecrest Lake Dam in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Located on the Swannanoa River-Tr, this dam has a structural height of 48 feet and a hydraulic height of 43 feet, providing a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3.5 acres and drains a 138-square mile area.

Even though Camp Ridgecrest Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition assessment as of March 2019 was deemed satisfactory. The dam is state-regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in March 2019. Despite not being associated with any federal agencies for funding or construction, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while adhering to state regulations and enforcement measures.

As an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure, Camp Ridgecrest Lake Dam ensures the safety of the surrounding community while offering recreational benefits. Its compliance with state regulations, satisfactory condition assessment, and regular inspections highlight its importance in managing water resources and mitigating potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a fascinating example of how private ownership can contribute to the sustainable management of water infrastructure.

Dam Length

414

River Or Stream

Swannanoa River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

138

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.