Abstract: As an important engineering measure for gully erosion management in mountainous areas, check dams play a pivotal role in mitigating flood disasters and controlling channel erosion by intercepting sediment, reducing flow velocity, and altering flow structures. This study reviewed the classification of check dams, described their physical mechanisms in regulating water-sediment dynamics, and summarized recent advances in optimal design and practical applications of check dams. On the basis of introduction and analysis of fundamental classification of check dams, along with physical mechanisms in regulating water-sediment dynamics and existing mathematical models, the challenges and future research directions were discussed, including the application of new materials, adaptation to extreme climates, and intelligent monitoring systems.