Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Park Lake Dam, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1962 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 40 feet and spanning 447 feet in length, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 202 acre-feet and covers an impressive surface area of 11 acres. Situated on TR-Lawsons Fork Creek, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Park Lake Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection conducted in January 2020. With a designated emergency action plan (EAP) last revised in 1983, the dam's risk assessment and management measures remain unspecified. Although lacking in certain details such as spillway type and maximum discharge, the dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its significant role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the local ecosystem along TR-Lawsons Fork Creek. As a noteworthy structure in the Charleston District, Park Lake Dam serves as a focal point for both environmental conservation efforts and public engagement.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

447

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-LAWSONS FORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

202

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.