Poinsett State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Poinsett State Park Lake Dam in South Carolina is a picturesque earth dam that was completed in 1841 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Situated on Shanks Creek, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 645 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2017.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Poinsett State Park Lake Dam is a state-regulated structure that undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam provides opportunities for outdoor activities and serves as a scenic backdrop for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding Sumter County landscape. With a surface area of 13 acres and a normal storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in supporting recreational activities and maintaining the ecological balance of the area.
This historic dam, nestled within Poinsett State Park, is not only a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts but also a vital component of the local ecosystem. As one of the oldest structures of its kind in the region, Poinsett State Park Lake Dam stands as a testament to both the engineering ingenuity of the past and the ongoing commitment to preserving and managing our natural resources for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1841 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SHANKS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
47cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
756cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1720cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4670cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
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.
Poinsett State Park Lake Dam