Lake Stephens Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Sand Branch Bluejay Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Lake Stephens Dam, located in Raleigh County, West Virginia, is a rockfill dam completed in 1963 primarily for recreational purposes, offering visitors a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 74 feet and with a length of 875 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 8990 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 248 acres. However, recent assessments have rated its condition as poor and with a high hazard potential, prompting the need for regular inspections to ensure public safety.
Despite its current state, the dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts, attracting visitors to enjoy the surrounding Stephens Branch stream and reservoir. The dam is under state jurisdiction and regulated by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management, with regular inspections mandated to address maintenance issues and ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam's emergency action plan is also periodically reviewed and updated to meet guidelines and manage potential risks, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding the dam's integrity.
As a key feature in the region's landscape, Lake Stephens Dam serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a critical water resource infrastructure that requires ongoing attention and maintenance. With a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, stakeholders continue to monitor and improve the dam's condition to sustain its function and preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding area for future generations of enthusiasts to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
875 |
Dam Height |
74 |
River Or Stream |
STEPHENS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
248 |
Drainage Area |
3.84 |
Nid Storage |
8990 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
74 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Piney Creek At Raleigh
|
36cfs |
Clear Fork At Whitesville
|
19cfs |
New River At Thurmond
|
2850cfs |
Guyandotte River Near Baileysville
|
165cfs |
Bluestone River Near Pipestem
|
161cfs |
Clear Fork At Clear Fork
|
64cfs |
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.
Lake Stephens Dam