Wilburn Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stokes Dam Blue Ridge Estates Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Wilburn Dam, located in Botetourt, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet high and stretches 143 feet long, with a storage capacity of 63.54 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a current condition rating, the dam continues to serve as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.
With a scenic surface area of 5.67 acres and a drainage area of 0.94 acres, Wilburn Dam provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy nature and engage in recreational activities. While the dam's spillway type and maximum discharge capacity are not specified, its role in providing water-based leisure opportunities is unmistakable. The dam's location in the Wilmington District further underscores its significance as a water resource and climate management asset in the region, attracting visitors seeking solace in its serene waters.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty of Wilburn Dam, they can appreciate its contribution to the local ecosystem and community. With a focus on recreation, this privately owned structure exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship. Despite uncertainties regarding its hazard potential and condition assessment, Wilburn Dam remains a cherished landmark in Botetourt, Virginia, embodying the interconnectedness of water management, leisure activities, and natural preservation.
Dam Length |
143 |
Dam Height |
26 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.67 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.94 |
Nid Storage |
63.54 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Buchanan
|
588cfs |
Tinker Creek Near Daleville
|
4cfs |
Catawba Creek Near Catawba
|
7cfs |
Roanoke River At Niagara
|
173cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke
|
75cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
18cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Peaks of Otter Campground
|
||
Peaks of Otter - Blue Ridge Parkway
|
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North Creek
|
||
North Creek Campground
|
Wilburn Dam
Top Of Apple Orchards Falls To Confluence Of North Creek With Jennings Creek