Lake Chinquapin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Chinquapin Dam, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, was completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 310 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 334 acre-feet. With a surface area of 12 acres, the dam regulates water flow from the TR-Big Curltail Creek, contributing to the local ecosystem and providing essential recreational opportunities for the community.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Lake Chinquapin Dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2020. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve as a vital resource for water management and outdoor activities in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to its picturesque surroundings.
With its earth core and stone foundation, Lake Chinquapin Dam remains a key landmark in the Savannah District, offering a glimpse into the engineering feats of the past. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam plays a crucial role in water regulation and conservation efforts in the area. Whether enjoying a day of fishing or simply appreciating the beauty of the lake, visitors to Lake Chinquapin Dam can witness the intersection of human ingenuity and natural landscapes, making it a destination of interest for those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG CURLTAIL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
334 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
83cfs |
Lake Greenwood Tailrace Nr Chappells
|
1090cfs |
Saluda River At Chappells
|
1220cfs |
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
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 Chinquapin Dam