Several Lake Okeechobee Boat Locks May Close Due to Lake Levels

Boaters navigating to and from Lake Okeechobee should be advised that if current weather conditions persist and the levels of Lake Okeechobee continue to recede, the South Florida Water Management District (District) will close four navigation locks on the north shore for safety reasons.

If the water level in Lake Okeechobee drops below 12 feet NGVD or 10.70 feet NAVD, the following locks will be completely closed to navigation 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

As of today, Friday, April 11, 2025, Lake Okeechobee is at 12.21 feet NGVD or 10.90 feet NAVD.

• The S-135 Boat Lock at the J&S Fish Camp in Martin County.
• The G-36 Boat Lock on Henry Creek in Okeechobee County.
• The S-127 Boat Lock at Buckhead Ridge in Glades County.
• The S-131 Boat Lock at Lakeport in Glades County.

If the water level in Lake Okeechobee reaches 12 feet NGVD or 10.70 feet NAVD, the S-193 Boat Lock at Taylor Creek in Okeechobee County will open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 5:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. If the lake levels reach 11 feet NGVD or 9.70 feet NAVD, the S-193 Boat Lock will also be completely closed until specific water levels are met.

To get the latest information on navigation through District structures and waterways, visit SFWMD.gov/Navigation and follow the District on Facebook and X.

Anglers and boaters may also access local waterways through other public boat ramps. Visit FWC Boat Ramp Finder to find one near you.