Lake Okeechobee Water Level Today

Lake Okeechobee, often called "Florida's Inland Sea" or "The Big O," is the largest freshwater lake in the southeastern United States and the seventh-largest freshwater lake in the country. Covering approximately 730 square miles in south-central Florida, it is remarkably shallow, averaging only 9 feet deep with a maximum depth of about 12 feet.

The lake's water level is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the Herbert Hoover Dike, a 143-mile earthen levee surrounding the lake. The managed regulation range typically keeps lake levels between 12.5 and 15.5 feet above sea level. Water levels that are too high pose flood risks, while levels that are too low threaten water supply and the ecosystem.

Lake Okeechobee is critically important to the Everglades ecosystem, as it historically provided the sheet flow of water that sustained the "River of Grass." Today, controlled releases from the lake flow south into the Everglades and east/west through the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee canals. These releases have been controversial due to toxic algae blooms in downstream estuaries.

The lake is a world-renowned fishing destination, particularly for largemouth bass and crappie (speckled perch). Popular fishing spots include Monkey Box, Kings Bar, and the Rim Canal. A valid Florida fishing license is required.

Explore more Florida water data on our Florida water levels page, or compare with Texas lake levels. See the national dashboard for all 50 states.