El Carrizal Dam, Dam in Mendoza Province, Argentina

El Carrizal Dam is a dam and hydroelectric power station in Mendoza Province, Argentina. It sits on the Tunuyán River upstream from Rivadavia and holds back a reservoir that stretches about 9 miles (15 km) long and 3 miles (5 km) wide, with a surface area of roughly 13 square miles (34.8 km²).

The dam was built in the mid-20th century to control the flow of the Tunuyán River and support irrigation in the region. In 1971, a hydroelectric power station was added, allowing the water to also generate electricity for the surrounding area.

The reservoir is a popular spot for local families who come to fish, sail, and camp along the shore. On weekends, the area fills with people from nearby towns who set up chairs and share meals by the water, giving the place a relaxed, communal feel.

The area around the reservoir is best explored by car, as the campsites and shoreline are spread out along unpaved roads. Bring your own supplies, since services are limited, and plan your visit for the warmer months when the water level is higher and the roads are easier to navigate.

The water that fills the reservoir comes from glaciers high in the Andes, traveling a long way before reaching the dam. This glacial source keeps the water cold and clear, a detail that visitors often notice when they see the reservoir for the first time.