The Wilds Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Wilds Dam, located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on the Toxaway River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1969 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 39 feet and a structural height of 45 feet, with a length of 285 feet. It has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, The Wilds Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment, measures are in place to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam has a history of modifications and is equipped with emergency action plans, although further updates may be needed to meet current guidelines and standards.

As part of the Nashville District, The Wilds Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Transylvania County, providing essential recreation opportunities while maintaining a balance with environmental conservation and safety measures. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the significance of this dam in both its recreational and regulatory functions, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

285

River Or Stream

Toxaway River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

152

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

45
       
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.