Mountain Rest Lake Dam, also known as Browns Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Oconee, South Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Standing at a height of 38.5 feet with a length of 255 feet, the dam impounds Village Creek to create a picturesque lake with a surface area of 34.3 acres.
Despite its recreational allure, Mountain Rest Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently rated as being in poor condition. The dam's inspection frequency is biennial, with the last assessment conducted in December 2017. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, signaling a need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Located in a scenic area with natural beauty, Mountain Rest Lake Dam serves as a vital reservoir for the community while also presenting challenges that must be addressed to maintain its structural integrity and safeguard against potential hazards. As stakeholders continue to assess and manage the dam's risks, its role in providing recreational opportunities amidst South Carolina's natural landscape remains a captivating subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
255 |
Dam Height |
38.5 |
River Or Stream |
VILLAGE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34.3 |
Nid Storage |
682 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Long Bottom Ford
|
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Oconee State Park
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Sandy Beach Campsite
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Cherry Hill Recreation Area
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Sarah's Creek Campground
|
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Sarahs Creek
|
Highway 28 to Earl's Ford (Section 2)
Earl's Ford to Route 76 (Section 3)
Headwaters Just East Of Hwy 107 To Crossing Of Norton Field Road (Fs 715A)
Beginning Just Upstream Of Townes Creek,Wash Branch And Crane Creek To Confluence With Kings Creek
Crpssing Of Land Bridge Road, Sc 196 To 1/4 Mile Below Fs 745 And Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp
Burrels Ford to Lick Log Branch (Section 1)