O'Neal Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Boyd Nursery Lake #2 Overton Retreat
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
O'Neal Lake, located in Warren County, Tennessee, is a privately-owned reservoir built in 1969 on Laurel Creek.
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Summary
With a surface area of 4.5 acres and a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 24.4 feet. The dam serves a primary purpose that is not specified, but its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment (score of 3) suggest a relatively stable and secure structure.
Despite being a small reservoir, O'Neal Lake plays a crucial role in the local water resource management, providing a reliable source of water for the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates indicate a simple design, suitable for its intended purpose. While it is not state-regulated or inspected, the dam's last inspection in 2018 found it to be in a not-rated condition, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, O'Neal Lake presents an intriguing case study of a modest yet essential water storage facility in a rural setting. Its location on Laurel Creek, minimal associated structures, and private ownership underscore the importance of considering a variety of factors when assessing the resilience and sustainability of water infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, understanding the characteristics and management of dams like O'Neal Lake is crucial for ensuring effective adaptation and mitigation strategies in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
700 |
River Or Stream |
LAUREL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.72 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Structural Height |
24.4 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hobbs Cabin
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Dinky Line
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Stage Road
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Saw Mill
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Savage Falls
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Stone Door
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O'Neal Lake