Turtle Lake, located in Vilas, Wisconsin, is a picturesque reservoir on Turtle River primarily used for recreation. The dam, completed in 1948, stands at 8 feet tall and has a controlled spillway width of 13 feet. With a storage capacity of 6130 acre-feet and a surface area of 823 acres, the lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure public safety.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Turtle Lake is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2007, with a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level. While the risk management measures and inundation maps status are unclear, the reservoir remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. The surrounding area's lush landscape and diverse flora and fauna make Turtle Lake a haven for nature lovers and water resource conservationists.