Constructed in 1935, the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is one of five locks along the 152-mile Okeechobee Waterway, and is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. It is on the west side of Lake Okeechobee and marks the beginning of the Caloosahatchee River. Bank and pier fishing is permitted on the south side of the river.

Pedestrian access across the spillway requires permission. Contact the Army Corps of Engineers (www.saj.usace.army.mil) at (863) 946-0414. Presently, the Florida Trail is routed into downtown to cross the US 27 bridge and back to the opposite side of the river to avoid a need for crossing the spillway and to provide hikers with access to groceries and lodging in the Florida Trail Gateway Community of Moore Haven.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The US Army Corps of Engineers has extended their closure of the Moore Haven Lock to Sept. 28. Mariners may call the Corps of Engineers at 863-983-8101. For more information...