High Rock Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

High Rock Lake Dam, also known as High Rocks Camp Dam, is a private dam located in Cedar Mountain, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 31.5 feet, with a structural height of 37 feet and a length of 200 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the Transylvania County area.

With a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, High Rock Lake Dam provides ample opportunities for water-based activities. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it is inspected, permitted, and enforced to meet safety standards. The dam has a high hazard potential but was assessed as satisfactory during its last condition assessment in 2015.

High Rock Lake Dam is a vital recreational resource in the region, offering a picturesque setting along Steel Creek. Although its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam is also subject to regulatory oversight to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With its rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina's waterways.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Steel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

31.5

Nid Storage

167

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.