Deer Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sunset Lake Silver Lake Ranches Inc.
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Deer Lake, located in Osage, Oklahoma, just 30 miles from Bartlesville, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1955, this Earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 570 feet in length, with a hydraulic height of 14 feet. The lake has a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 124 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 29 acres and draining an area of 1.75 square miles, making it a popular destination for water enthusiasts in the region.
Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, Deer Lake is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a controlled spillway type and a high hazard potential, the reservoir poses a very high risk, warranting close monitoring and risk management measures. Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the lake remains a beloved spot for outdoor activities, offering anglers, boaters, and nature lovers a tranquil setting to enjoy the water resources and climate of the area.
With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Deer Lake serves as a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts in Oklahoma. As a tributary to Rock Creek and part of the Tulsa District, this reservoir provides not only a refuge for wildlife but also a place for residents and visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the region. While its high hazard potential may raise concerns, the proper management and oversight by state agencies ensure that Deer Lake remains a safe and enjoyable destination for all who seek to explore its waters and natural surroundings.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1.75 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Caney River Above Coon Creek At Bartlesville
|
66cfs |
Caney R Nr Elgin
|
33cfs |
Bird Creek At Avant
|
7cfs |
Hominy Creek Near Hominy
|
2cfs |
Caney River Near Ramona
|
51cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
4230cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Osage Hills State Park
|
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Caney Bend
|
||
Wah - Sha - She State Park
|
Deer Lake