Spring Hollow Reservoir, body of water
Spring Hollow Reservoir is a man-made lake in Roanoke County covering roughly 158 acres and held back by a roller-compacted concrete dam. The water body, reaching depths of about 220 feet (67 meters), draws water from the nearby Roanoke River and stores it separately from the natural flow for local supply.
Planning for the reservoir began in 1986 when local officials called a vote to approve construction and secure a reliable water supply for the growing area. Construction started in the mid-1990s and the facility began operating in 1996.
The reservoir connects to Camp Roanoke, a youth camp operating along its shores since 1925. This facility has become a place where people gather for shared experiences, with the water serving as a backdrop for community activities and outdoor education.
Access to the water itself is limited to protect drinking water quality, but visitors can walk along the roughly 4-mile shoreline and enjoy views. The area works well for birdwatchers who bring binoculars to observe local waterfowl.
The dam is built using roller-compacted concrete, making it the largest of this type east of the Mississippi River. This construction method allows for efficient water storage with minimal ongoing maintenance.
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