Okeechobee Waterway Recreational Areas Under New Guidelines In Lee and Glades Counties

CLEWISTON, FL. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District announces a second phase of reopenings starting October 9, at Corps-managed recreation areas along the Okeechobee Waterway that were closed in March to protect against the further spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“The health and safety of our employees, volunteers, and visitors remains our top priority. Our rangers have been hard at work, planning for this second phase reopening of our recreation facilities. They have implemented increased protection measures and signage to ensure everyone can enjoy our recreation areas safely and responsibly,” said Jeff Fallin, Chief of the South Florida Operations Office in Clewiston. “We know that everyone has been looking forward to the reopening of these additional facilities and appreciate the public’s patience and understanding during this unprecedented time."

These are the guidelines for this second phase of the gradual reopening of the recreation areas along the Okeechobee Waterway, based on the need for continued social distancing and other safety practices:

W.P. Franklin North in Lee County

The campground gate will be open to the public from sunrise to sunset. Access to the boat launch and fishing pier will be available during these hours.

W.P. Franklin South

The group shelters may be reserved for groups of 25 or less at recreation.gov. The playground will be open. CDC guidelines are posted at all facilities that are open. The Visitor Center and lock viewing area remain closed until further notice.

Ortona North in Glades County

The large group shelter will be open to groups of 25 or less and may be reserved at recreation.gov. CDC guidelines are posted at all facilities that are open.

Ortona South

The campground gate will be open to the public from 7:30 a.m. to sunset. The wooden fishing pier will be open to the public during these hours. The group shelter will be open to campers only for groups of 25 persons or less. CDC guidelines will be posted at the currently open facilities.