Camp Otterbein Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Rice Dam Lake Logan Dam
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
Camp Otterbein Lake Dam, located in Hocking, Ohio, is a private earth dam built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 35 feet and a length of 375 feet, has a normal storage capacity of 30.8 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 451 cubic feet per second. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in March 2017.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled outlet gates, and it is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The dam is associated with Camp Otterbein Lake and is situated on a tributary to Fivemile Creek. Its risk assessment is moderate, with a risk management plan yet to be fully developed. The dam's location makes it a valuable resource for water recreation enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in sustainable water resource management practices in the region.
Overall, Camp Otterbein Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for both recreational and regulatory purposes in the area, showcasing a blend of natural and engineered features that contribute to the local ecosystem's resilience. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Camp Otterbein Lake Dam play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water bodies for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO FIVEMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Camp Otterbein Lake Dam