Lake Inspiration Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: St Matthews Wst Dam Smoke Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Inspiration Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of local government in harnessing the power of water resources for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1940, this earth dam boasts a height of 17 feet and a length of 700 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering visitors a serene 23-acre surface area for boating, fishing, and other leisure activities.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Lake Inspiration Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and visitors. Classified with a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan is up-to-date, last revised in February 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve as a vital resource for the community, attracting water and climate enthusiasts seeking solace and inspiration in its tranquil waters.
As part of the Savannah District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Inspiration Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. With a local government ownership structure, the dam reflects a commitment to sustainable development and responsible stewardship of natural resources. For those passionate about water conservation and climate resilience, Lake Inspiration Dam stands as a beacon of innovation and a source of recreation and solace in the heart of South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
HALFWAY SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
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 Inspiration Dam