Johnsons Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Aiken, South Carolina, Johnsons Lake Dam is a privately-owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 18 feet and stretching 670 feet in length, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 218.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 175 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Town Creek and boasts a surface area of 39 acres, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

While the dam is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, it has been deemed to have a high hazard potential due to its fair condition assessment. The most recent inspection, conducted in March 2020, revealed that the dam meets safety guidelines but requires ongoing maintenance to ensure its stability and integrity. Despite its risk level, Johnsons Lake Dam continues to attract visitors seeking a serene environment to enjoy the beauty of nature and water-based recreational activities.

With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, Johnsons Lake Dam is a hidden gem in the heart of Aiken, South Carolina. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, visitors can appreciate the importance of maintaining this structure to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding environment. Whether exploring the waters of Town Creek or simply taking in the scenic views, Johnsons Lake Dam provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the role of dams in supporting recreational activities while safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Nid Storage

218.4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.