Camp Hydaway Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Camp Hydaway Lake Dam, also known as Lake Hydaway, is a private dam located in Lynchburg, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.7 feet and stretches 250 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, this structure holds a normal storage capacity of 36.1 acre-feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding Opossum Creek and James River.

Despite its recreational appeal, Camp Hydaway Lake Dam has been rated as having a poor condition assessment as of August 2019, with an undetermined hazard potential. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 40 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2727 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for this dam is moderate, there are no current emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Camp Hydaway Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its location in the Wilmington District of Virginia and its association with Opossum Creek and the James River, this dam serves as both a recreational hub and a potential risk factor in the event of a breach. As discussions surrounding climate change and water resource management intensify, the importance of regularly inspecting and updating emergency protocols for structures like Camp Hydaway Lake Dam becomes increasingly evident.

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

16.7

River Or Stream

Opossum Creek - VAHU6 JM11 James River - Opossum Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

1.96

Nid Storage

63.1

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.