Terminus Dam

Terminus Dam is an embankment dam that holds back the Kaweah River to create Lake Kaweah in central California. The structure serves both power generation and flood control purposes for the surrounding region.

Construction was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1944 and completed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1962. The project was built to address flooding concerns and meet growing electricity demands in California.

The construction site of Terminus Dam revealed numerous Native American artifacts, which the National Park Service preserved before the excavation began.

The site is generally accessible to the public, with the adjacent Lake Kaweah offering recreational activities like fishing and boating. It is wise to check local conditions before visiting since water levels fluctuate seasonally.

The dam features exceptionally large flood gate mechanisms that open automatically when water pressure reaches critical levels during flooding. This safety system makes it distinctive among hydroelectric projects in the area.

Location: Tulare County

GPS coordinates: 36.41690,-119.00400

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:03