Cave Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Cave Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1932 and is 94 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 83 ft (taller than 91.3% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 360 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 784 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 14 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1932 (94 years old) |
| NID ID | NV00102 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cave Creek Dam?
Cave Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cave Creek Dam?
Cave Creek Dam is owned by NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cave Creek Dam built?
Cave Creek Dam was completed in 1932, making it 94 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 Cave Creek Dam?
Cave Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cave Creek Dam?
Cave Creek Dam has a dam height of 83 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 Cave Creek Dam last inspected?
Cave Creek Dam was last inspected on August 4, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.