Camel Butte Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Camel Butte Dam, also known as Camel Hump Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Golden Valley, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by NDSWC & NDDOT, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 53 feet and stretches 900 feet in length. Situated on Andrews Creek, the primary purpose of Camel Butte Dam is for recreational activities, offering a surface area of 56.7 acres and a normal storage capacity of 720 acre-feet.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, the dam has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. With a spillway type of uncontrolled, Camel Butte Dam features a single valve outlet gate for water release. The structure undergoes regular state inspections, with the last inspection occurring in May 2018. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Camel Butte Dam presents an opportunity for outdoor recreation in a picturesque setting. With its serene location and capacity for water storage and discharge, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in North Dakota. As a focal point for leisure activities and water conservation efforts, Camel Butte Dam is a valuable resource in the state's infrastructure network.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

ANDREWS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

56.7

Drainage Area

8.2

Nid Storage

1640

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

53
       
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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.