Pitts Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Pitts Lake Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a significant earth dam completed in 1831 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a length of 845 feet, this dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a normal storage of 32 acre-feet. It is situated on the Savana Branch river, under the regulatory oversight of SC DHEC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of April 2017. Despite its age, the structure has been regularly inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, making it primarily a local government-owned and operated facility. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 10 acres for recreational activities, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As a historical landmark that has stood the test of time, Pitts Lake Dam serves as both a functional structure for water management and a recreational hub for the community. With its unique design and location, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to enjoy water-based activities in the heart of South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1831 |
Dam Length |
845 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SAVANA BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
882cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
2990cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
764cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
39cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1810cfs |
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.
Pitts Lake Dam