Hidden Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

Hidden Lake Dam, located in Hocking County, Ohio, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1957 by the USDA Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and has a length of 287 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.5 acres, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

State regulated and permitted by the Department of Natural Resources, Hidden Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. In 2017, the dam was assessed to be in satisfactory condition, with a significant hazard potential. The local community in Blackjack benefits from the dam's role in flood control and water supply management, making it an essential component of the region's water resource infrastructure.

With its picturesque location and vital role in water management, Hidden Lake Dam serves as both a recreational hotspot and a crucial element in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Its history, design, and impact on the surrounding environment make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

287

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO BLACKJACK BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.