Okeechobee is located at the northern tip of the second largest freshwater lake in the continental United States Lake Okeechobee. This spectacular lake is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and it never disappoints. Lake Okeechobee produces trophy bass and speckled perch like no other! Lake Okeechobee often is the host of several fishing tournaments from local groups to just recently the Bassmaster Elite Series where the pros came to compete. Okeechobee’s seasonal residents and guests cover the lake and Kissimmee River in lights fighting to bring in limits of that great tasting speckled perch.
The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail
Surrounding the Lake is Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST), part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, circles Lake Okeechobee on top of the Herbert Hoover Dike, built for flood control in the 1930’s. The 110-mile Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail was opened by the U.S. Forest Service in 1993. The trail is used for biking, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, with 14 campgrounds on or adjacent to the trail. The surface consists of both paved and gravel portions. The trail is not continuous, but diverts onto roadways around locks. Views from the dike boasts of broad vistas and stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Hunting and Fishing
Okeechobee offers some of the best hunting in South Florida. Hunting opportunities include hog, deer, turkey, quail, alligators and more. Okeechobee offers the whole Florida hunting experience. Whether it is stalking a wild boar, sitting in a blind Osceola turkey hunting, or maybe traveling high speed out on an airboat trophy alligator hunting. Hunting guides are numerous and offer professional services to complete your outdoor experience.
If fishing and hunting do not suit you or your looking for something more try any of our numerous gun ranges for clay shooting and other shooting sports. Okeechobee’s facilities are the ultimate in shooting and gunsmith destinations in South and Central Florida. They provide amenities such as rifle and pistol ranges, 5 stand sporting clays fields, trap and skeet fields as well as shooting galleries. Some of these venues are so beautiful they host events such as weddings, reunions and birthdays.
Okeechobee for the Outdoor Enthusiast
Okeechobee has all the great things for the outdoor enthusiast can ask for. Horseback riding, star gazing at Kissimmee Prairie State Park, birdwatching and local festivals all come together to offer a vacation you’ll never forget. A family friendly environment where small town values still thrive and the South makes you feel at home.
For more information on Okeechobee and the great things that are offered for you and your family please contact Sharie Turgeon, Tourism Coordinator at (863) 763-3959 or www.visitokeechobeecounty.com.
