White Oak Lake Upper Dam

WHITE OAK CREEK· Ouachita, Arkansas· Built 1960· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

White Oak Lake Upper Dam is classified as significant hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 30.9% in AR)
Dam Length1,280 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage16.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage4.9K acre-ft
Surface Area598 acres
Drainage Area19 sq mi
Max Discharge21,800 cfs
Year Completed1960 (66 years old)
NID IDAR00634

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
State Regulated: No

Ownership

ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of White Oak Lake Upper Dam?

White Oak Lake Upper 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 White Oak Lake Upper Dam?

White Oak Lake Upper Dam is owned by ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was White Oak Lake Upper Dam built?

White Oak Lake Upper Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 White Oak Lake Upper Dam?

White Oak Lake Upper 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 White Oak Lake Upper Dam?

White Oak Lake Upper Dam has a dam height of 21 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.

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.