Rural Retreat Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Wythe County, Virginia, the Rural Retreat Dam, also known as Wythe County Lake, is a state-owned structure managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam sits on the South Fork Reed Creek and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a height of 44.3 feet and a storage capacity of 2440 acre-feet, the dam offers a surface area of 79.5 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of 2014, the dam poses a high hazard potential, requiring regular inspections and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. With a drainage area of 3.34 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Its proximity to the Wilmington District further underscores its significance in the local ecosystem.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Virginia can appreciate the Rural Retreat Dam for its contribution to recreational opportunities and its role in regulating water flow in the area. The dam's history, design, and current condition make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of human infrastructure with natural landscapes and ecosystems in the region.

Dam Length

595

Dam Height

44.3

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK REED CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

79.5

Hydraulic Height

44.3

Drainage Area

3.34

Nid Storage

2440

Structural Height

44.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.