Located in western Martin County, the Lakeside Ranch Stormwater Treatment Area plays a crucial role in the restoration of the Lake Okeechobee watershed by improving the quality of water flowing into the lake. The wetlands will treat stormwater runoff from the Taylor Creek and Nubbin Slough basins to the north before that runoff enters Lake Okeechobee.

Approximately 2,700 acres of Lakeside Ranch is open to the public to enjoy hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing or simply relaxing. The recreation area is surrounded by levees that are accessible to visitors on foot or on bicycle. 

The main public access point has a parking area, restroom, informational kiosk, signage, and a shelter. At the secondary shell-rock parking area, there are port-o-let toilets and a kiosk with an informative map. The area has two picnic shelters located along the levee hiking trails.

For More Information:
Please call the SFWMD recreation hotline at (866) 433-6312 or visit www.sfwmd.gov/recreation.

Directions

• The main parking area is located on Highway 441 approximately 2.5 miles south of County Road 15B / SE 126th Blvd.
• The secondary public access point is situated west of State Road 710 in southern Okeechobee County. Visitors can drive just over half a mile from the entrance gate at County Road 15B / SE 126th Blvd. to the shell-rock parking area.

Hours Open to the Public

The Lakeside Ranch Stormwater Treatment Area is open to the public for recreational use Friday - Monday, sunrise to sunset.