W. S. Jones Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Watauga Vista Dam White/Myatt Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
S. Jones Lake, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a privately owned reservoir that serves as a recreational hotspot in the area. The dam, completed in 1963, stands at a height of 23 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 14 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1.5 acres and a drainage area of 620 acres, the lake offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of North Carolina's natural landscapes.
Despite its recreational allure, W. S. Jones Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition as assessed in 2015. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's proximity to the North Prong Elijay Creek adds to its appeal, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to enjoy various water activities while also highlighting the vital role of sustainable water resource management in the region.
As water and climate enthusiasts explore the wonders of W. S. Jones Lake, they can appreciate the efforts of the local regulatory agencies in maintaining the dam's safety and integrity. The surrounding Macon County, with Franklin as its city center, benefits from the recreational and environmental value that the lake brings to the community. With ongoing inspections and regulatory measures in place, W. S. Jones Lake stands as a testament to responsible water resource management amidst the ever-changing climate challenges facing North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
112 |
River Or Stream |
North Prong Elijay Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.5 |
Drainage Area |
620 |
Nid Storage |
14 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Ralph Andrews County Park
|
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Van Hook Glade Campground
|
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Van Hook Glade
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W. S. Jones Lake