Cardinal Lake Dam, also known as Lake Toxaway Upper Dam, is a private dam located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, along the Toxaway River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1979, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 680 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 364 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018, Cardinal Lake Dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, with regular state inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's last inspection took place in May 2018, with an inspection frequency of every two years.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Cardinal Lake Dam an intriguing structure to study, given its location in the picturesque Transylvania County, North Carolina. As part of the Nashville District, the dam's role in managing water levels and providing recreational opportunities on Cardinal Lake makes it a significant feature in the region. With its intriguing history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam offers a unique case study for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental protection.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
225 |
River Or Stream |
Toxaway River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
680 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wintergreen Campsite
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Indian Camp Campsite
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Heath Pine Ridge Campsite
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Buck Fields
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Bear Creek Campsite
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Toxaway Creek Campsites
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