Clark Canyon Dam, Earthfill dam on Beaverhead River near Dillon, Montana.
Clark Canyon Dam is an earthfill dam that crosses the Beaverhead River, creating a large body of water for storage and use. The structure holds water needed for farming throughout the region and supports recreation on the reservoir.
Federal water authorities built the dam between 1961 and 1964 as part of a regional water development program. The project came during an era when many such structures were being constructed across the country to manage water and resources.
The reservoir sits atop the former Camp Fortunate, a place where the Lewis and Clark Expedition encountered the Lemhi Shoshoni people and Sacagawea reconnected with her family. Today, this spot holds deep meaning for those interested in the expedition's path and Native American history.
The reservoir is open for boating with access points located around the shoreline. Visitors can find picnic spots and camping areas nearby, making it easy to spend a day or overnight in the area.
The dam's construction forced the relocation of a major railroad line and a primary highway that had passed through the area. These large-scale infrastructure moves reveal how much the project changed the local landscape.
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