Hell Hole
Key Takeaway
Hell Hole is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 410 ft (taller than 99.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,570 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 207.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 207.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,253 acres |
| Drainage Area | 113 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 58,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00857 |
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
Placer County Water Agency
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hell Hole?
Hell Hole 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 Hell Hole?
Hell Hole is owned by Placer County Water Agency (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hell Hole built?
Hell Hole was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Hell Hole?
Hell Hole serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hell Hole?
Hell Hole has a dam height of 410 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 Hell Hole last inspected?
Hell Hole was last inspected on August 22, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.