Macdonald Willetts Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Macdonald Willetts Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1969 for recreational purposes on Camp Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a length of 541 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of its last inspection in December 2018.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), the dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The primary purpose of Macdonald Willetts Dam is for recreation, catering to water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, it remains an important structure for water management and outdoor activities in the region.

Overall, Macdonald Willetts Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in South Carolina, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Macdonald Willetts become essential to ensure safety and sustainability for both the environment and the community. With proper oversight and management, this dam will continue to provide enjoyment and recreational opportunities for years to come.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

541

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

CAMP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Nid Storage

147

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.