Okeechobee County is located in central Florida nestled along the northern shore of Lake Okeechobee, the second largest freshwater lake in the United States. Its western boundary follows the historic Kissimmee River and the Kissimmee Prairie State Park encompasses the northwest corner of the county. Cattle ranches, dairies, citrus groves, and vegetable farms dot the northern areas of the county while residential subdivisions, mobile home parks, fish camps, marinas, and RV parks line the lakeshore.   The City of Okeechobee is located near the lake. Incorporated in 1915, it is the county seat and home to 5,000 residents. According to the 2000 U. S. Census, Okeechobee County’s population is estimated to be 36,000 although this figure does not include its many winter residents and seasonal farm workers. Okeechobee County is centrally located and served by an excellent highway system. Orlando, Tampa, Palm Beach, Miami and the Florida Keys are all within a 150-mile drive from Okeechobee. Okeechobee County has its own airport and Amtrak stops twice a day at the historic train depot.   Okeechobee County is proud of its school system: It has five elementary schools, two middle schools, a freshman campus, and two high schools. The Okeechobee County Sports Complex, jointly funded by the county government and the school board, is open to the public. It offers fields for baseball, soccer, and football and courts for basketball, tennis, and shuffleboard. Surrounding its Olympic-size pool is a pavilion and wooden jungle playground.   Churches of nearly every denomination are located in Okeechobee County and many incorporate their own private schools. Although cattle have dominated the landscape and economy in Okeechobee County for over 140 years, tourism is second to agriculture in economic impact. The county benefits from a mild winter climate with temperatures ranging from the mid 60’s to mid 80’s. Average summer temperatures are in the high 80’s to low 90’s and afternoon rainstorms often relieve the heat. The enjoyable climate allows visitors to take advantage of the great fishing, golfing, bird watching, and various other activities available in Okeechobee County.   Okeechobee County’s local Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Annual Specked Perch Festival every March. In conjunction with the festival, the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association holds a rodeo in its newly expanded rodeo arena. The Cattlemen’s Association also sponsors an annual Labor Day Rodeo complete with parade and festival. These rodeos are two-day events and are sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.   Whatever you desire in a relaxed family-oriented environment, we can very likely locate it for you in Okeechobee County. Come visit us at our office, send a letter, or send an email and one of our professional agents will help you find the property best suited to your needs.