Bear Creek Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bear Creek Lake is a private water resource located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1964, stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 500 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 3483 acre-feet and a surface area of 130 acres, making it a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bear Creek Lake is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, signaling a need for ongoing risk management measures. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and preparedness are currently unspecified, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and response protocols for the site.

The lake's association with the Bear Creek river and its picturesque location in Penn Forest Township make it a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities. With a multi-arch earth dam structure and uncontrolled spillway, Bear Creek Lake offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy water-based activities while also serving as a critical water resource for the region.

Years Modified

2001 - Structural, 2006 - Other

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

130

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

3483

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.