Hays County Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hays County Park in San Marcos, Texas, Hays County Park Lake Dam is a gravity dam built in 1964 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 8 feet in height and spanning 315 feet in length, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. Situated along the Blanco River, the dam serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities in a picturesque setting.

Managed by the local government with regulatory oversight from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Hays County Park Lake Dam is designed as a buttress-style structure with a solid foundation. Although the dam currently has no spillway and limited drainage capacity, it presents a high risk due to its potential hazard rating. Despite its condition being not rated, the dam continues to be a key feature in the recreational landscape of Hays County, attracting visitors and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil environment by the water.

With no associated structures and a single outlet gate, Hays County Park Lake Dam remains a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a serene escape amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding area. While the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness are not explicitly outlined, its historical significance and recreational value make it a notable landmark for those passionate about water resources and climate preservation in the region.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

BLANCO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.