Bonaparte Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beth Lake Fanchers Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Bonaparte Lake Dam, located in Okanogan, Washington, was completed in 1957 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 9 feet with a length of 180 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 995 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 535 acre-feet. Situated on Bonaparte Creek, the dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes periodic inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Although classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Bonaparte Lake Dam is currently not rated. The last recorded inspection took place in June 1971, highlighting the need for updated evaluations to determine the dam's current state. Despite its age, the dam remains in operation and continues to provide essential irrigation and recreational benefits to the surrounding area. With its stone core and soil foundation, Bonaparte Lake Dam stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its time.
As a significant feature within Congressional District 04, Washington, Bonaparte Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of Dan Newhouse (R) and the Seattle District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Given its location and historical significance, the dam attracts water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems. With its tranquil surroundings and vital role in water management, Bonaparte Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the delicate balance between environmental conservation and human development.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
180 |
River Or Stream |
Bonaparte Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
170 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
6.98 |
Nid Storage |
995 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kettle River Near Ferry
|
414cfs |
Okanogan River At Oroville
|
347cfs |
Okanogan River Near Tonasket
|
5320cfs |
Similkameen River Near Nighthawk
|
6000cfs |
Omak Creek Near Omak
|
7cfs |
Kettle River Near Laurier
|
962cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Bonaparte Lake Campground
|
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Bonaparte Lake
|
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Beth Lake
|
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Beth Lake Campground
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Bonaparte Lake Dam