Hidden Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hidden Lake, located in Austin, Texas, is a private reservoir with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1969, the earth dam stands at 42 feet high and spans 400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 5.78 acres and has a drainage area of 1.1 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and has undergone structural modifications in 1993.

Despite its modest size, Hidden Lake offers recreational opportunities in addition to its irrigation function. The reservoir is fed by Bull Creek and has a maximum discharge rate of 16,000 cubic feet per second. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 62 feet wide, helps manage excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. The dam is classified as having a fair condition assessment and a moderate risk level, with inspections taking place every 5 years to ensure its safety and integrity.

The dam at Hidden Lake is a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As a vital piece of infrastructure in Travis County, this reservoir plays a crucial role in supplying water for agricultural purposes while also providing a space for recreation and enjoyment. With its strategic location and careful regulation by the TCEQ, Hidden Lake stands as a model for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Years Modified

1993 - Structural

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-BULL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.78

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

183

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.