Warning: Use caution near dam spillway

Spillway Warning - South Fork State Recreation Area

Nevada State Parks urges visitors to practice extreme caution near the spillway at South Fork State Recreation Area. Due to the record snowfall this past winter, the spillway at South Fork Reservoir is actively in use to prevent water levels from overtopping the dam and prevent flooding residents’ homes around the reservoir.

Swimming or boating near spillways presents serious dangers. Water that flows into the dam’s spillway creates strong, unseen currents that can flip boats and drown even the most experienced swimmers. Never cross, tie up or go under buoy lines, and follow all warning signs. Boaters, paddlers, and swimmers should wear a personal flotation device. Visitors should also be vigilant that their dogs do not enter the water near or beyond the marked buoy line near the spillway.

“The safety of our visitors is of the utmost importance to us.” said Bob Mergell, Nevada State Parks Administrator. “With the busy summer ahead, we want to remind visitors to, as always, use caution near dams and spillways so that they’ll end their visit happy, safe and full of fun memories.”