Summit Lake Church Camp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Summit Lake Church Camp Dam, nestled in Emmitsburg, Maryland, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational enjoyment.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this private dam serves as a focal point for outdoor activities, offering a serene 4.3-acre surface area for campers and visitors to immerse themselves in nature. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a tranquil setting for individuals to engage in various water-based activities while surrounded by the picturesque beauty of Frederick County.

Despite its age, Summit Lake Church Camp Dam has undergone recent structural modifications in 2020 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam remains a reliable and secure feature of the landscape. The dam's earth core type, buttress design, and uncontrolled spillway contribute to its unique character and blend seamlessly with the offstream location along Little Owens Creek.

Managed by Maryland's Dam Safety regulatory agency, the Summit Lake Church Camp Dam not only offers recreational opportunities but also serves as a symbol of responsible stewardship of water resources. The dam's stable condition, regular inspections, and adherence to state permitting and enforcement guidelines underscore its commitment to preserving the surrounding ecosystem while providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Years Modified

2020 - Structural

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Offstream-Little Owens Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.