Camp Ernst Dam

GUNPOWDER CREEK· Boone, Kentucky· Built 1950· Earth· 65 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Camp Ernst Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 65 ft (taller than 89.3% in KY)
Dam Length560 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage480 acre-ft
Normal Storage355 acre-ft
Surface Area25 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDKY00003

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: April 26, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Camp Ernst Dam?

Camp Ernst Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Camp Ernst Dam?

Camp Ernst Dam is owned by YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Camp Ernst Dam built?

Camp Ernst Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Camp Ernst Dam?

Camp Ernst Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Camp Ernst Dam?

Camp Ernst Dam has a dam height of 65 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Camp Ernst Dam last inspected?

Camp Ernst Dam was last inspected on April 26, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.