The dam's crest altitude is one of the highest among major hydroelectric structures in Romania.
It is a central component of the Lotru-Sebeș hydroelectric development system.
The reservoir area is surrounded by the protected Cindrel and Parâng mountain ranges.
The dam design features a specific 'rock-fill with clay core' structure to withstand the seismic activity typical of the Carpathian region.
The Oașa reservoir serves as an essential water catchment for the downstream hydro-cascade.
Oașa Dam is a rock-fill embankment dam with a clay core located in the Parâng Mountains of Romania. Constructed between 1975 and 1979, the dam impounds the Sebeș River to create the Oașa Reservoir. The structure stands 91 meters high and has a crest length of 290 meters. It functions primarily as a component of the Șugag Hydroelectric Power Station. The reservoir covers approximately 440 hectares and holds 136 million cubic meters of water. The dam is situated along the Transalpina (DN67C), the highest paved road in Romania, at an elevation of 1,255 meters above sea level. The surrounding landscape consists of dense coniferous forests characteristic of the Southern Carpathians. It remains a focal point for transit along the alpine route connecting Transylvania to Oltenia.
The designated scenic overlook on the northern bank of the reservoir providing a clear view of the dam face and lake.
Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, as temperatures at this elevation are significantly cooler than in the surrounding valleys.
Park only in designated pull-offs along DN67C, as the road shoulders can be narrow and busy.
Combine the visit with a stop at the nearby Oașa Monastery, located on the shores of the reservoir.
Do not attempt to walk on the dam crest if it is marked as restricted, and avoid stopping in the middle of traffic lanes on the mountain road.
The mountain road leading to the dam is typically closed to traffic during the winter and early spring months due to heavy snow accumulation.
