Ely, NV- In October 2019, the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), in coordination with the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) and the Nevada Division of State Parks (NDSP), commenced a rehabilitation project to restore and repair the Cave Creek Dam, located within Cave Lake State Park. Originally constructed in 1932, Cave Creek Dam’s aging infrastructure, coupled with findings from a recent engineering assessment, indicate that the dam needs repairs and improvements to help accommodate extreme weather and storm events. The Cave Creek Dam rehabilitation project includes enhancing the overall stability of the dam with an expanded spillway, increased stormwater storage capacity, advanced technology, and other necessary long-term improvements.

Recently, project engineers discovered unstable and potentially dangerous conditions at Cave Lake, including deep mud along the shoreline that is currently obstructing visitor access, among other safety concerns. To help address these issues and protect park visitors, several safety projects are now underway, including the construction of new and improved entry points to the lake. Please be advised that while the campgrounds remain open, access to the lake will remain closed until all necessary safety measures are complete.

When Cave Lake reopens, visitors will be able to resume access to the lake and enjoy an abundance of water activities, including kayaking, fishing, and swimming, for the duration of the Cave Creek Dam rehabilitation project. The boat dock, however, will remain closed. The health of fish and area wildlife will not be impacted by the rehabilitation project, and if conditions allow, the Rotary Club of Ely’s Annual Ice Fishing Derby will be held at Cave Lake as planned. However, the annual Fire and Ice Festival will be relocated. For event updates, please visit elynevada.net/events.    
 “The Nevada Department of Wildlife, together with our partners, is committed to ensuring all visitors can continue to enjoy the myriad recreational opportunities and natural splendor that Cave Lake State Park has to offer,” said NDOW Chief Engineer Rodd Lighthouse. “We appreciate your understanding as we complete these critical safety projects at Cave Lake to help ensure safe, memorable, and amazing recreational experiences for all.”

The Cave Creek Dam restoration and enhancement project should be entirely completed in four to five years, depending on weather conditions, available funding, and other factors. Status updates and other pertinent information surrounding Cave Lake State Park are available online at parks.nv.gov/parks/cave-lake.