Lake Shamokin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Lake Shamokin Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1865 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at 10 feet in height and stretching 585 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet of water with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet. Situated on Gum Swamp Creek, the dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy the 12-acre surface area of the lake.
Despite its low hazard potential, Lake Shamokin Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2017. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. While the risk assessment indicates moderate risk, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans prepared for the dam. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to improve the dam's condition and ensure its long-term safety may be necessary to preserve this beloved water resource for future generations of climate and water enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1865 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
GUM SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1740cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
520cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
19cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
144cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
136cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
65cfs |
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.
Lake Shamokin Dam