Travis Lake Upper Reservoir Report
Nearby: Travis Lower Lake Bullock's Pond
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Travis Lake Upper, also known as Upper Travis Lake, is a captivating water resource nestled in Caroline, Virginia, just outside the city of Port Royal.
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Summary
Managed by the US Army, this dam was completed in 1940 and serves a dual purpose of providing recreational opportunities as well as supporting fish and wildlife in the area. With a dam height of 8 feet and a length of 300 feet, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 22 acres.
The dam's spillway, controlled with a width of 25 feet, ensures efficient water discharge during high flow events. Despite its low hazard potential, Travis Lake Upper is regularly inspected every four years to ensure its structural integrity. While the risk assessment categorizes this dam as having a very high risk, measures for risk management are not currently specified. With its scenic location along the Goldenvale Creek Tr, Travis Lake Upper provides both a tranquil retreat for recreation enthusiasts and a vital habitat for local wildlife.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Travis Lake Upper to be a fascinating example of sustainable dam management in Virginia. From its humble beginnings as a recreation spot to its role in supporting local wildlife, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management. Despite the potential risks associated with its operation, the US Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of Travis Lake Upper for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Goldenvale Creek Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Travis Lake Upper