Helmcamp Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Helmcamp Lake, located in Sheridan, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam structure built in 1990 by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a length of 728 feet, the lake has a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and serves multiple functions including fire protection, stock watering, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation. The dam is supported by a stone core and sits on a soil foundation, with a spillway width of 168 feet for uncontrolled release of excess water.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Helmcamp Lake has not been assessed for condition or emergency action planning. The lake is primarily regulated and funded by the USDA NRCS and falls under the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District. The surrounding area is drained by Tr- Pin Oak Creek, with a drainage area of 0.33 square miles. Overall, Helmcamp Lake serves as a valuable resource for water conservation, environmental enhancement, and recreational activities in the Colorado County region.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

728

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Tr- Pin Oak Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

99

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.