Add an Article Add an Event Edit

Glades County

500 Avenue J
863-946-6000

Glades County was created in 1921 and was named for the Florida Everglades. It is located in south central Florida on the western bank of Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee is the largest fresh water lake in Florida and adds tremendous value to the quality of life in Glades County. Glades County is known for tourism, cattle, fishing, sugar cane, produce, and citrus industries. The total area of Glades County is 986 square miles; 774 square miles is land and 213 square miles is water. The population of Glades County is approximately 11,100 with approximately 2,780 families.

Moore Haven is the County Seat and has a population of approximately 1800. Moore Haven is located on the banks of Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee River. The river is part of Florida's Intracoastal Waterway. Moore Haven was named after the founder of the community, James A. Moore. There are five unincorporated communities in Glades County, Buckhead Ridge, Lakeport, Ortona, Palmdale, and Muse. The Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation is in northeast Glades County.

Glades County is an amazing place that's home to great people, an abundance of natural resources, and a diverse agricultural landscape. The people of Glades County are diverse in their heritage, colorful in their history, and strong in their faith. People get along with one another as evidenced by low instances of crime. The schools are small, the teachers are dedicated and the children behave most of the time.

Glades County residents appreciate the serenity found in the abundance of natural resources throughout the county. Lake Okeechobee and the Coloosahatchee River are key natural resources that provide for a variety of recreational activities. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail winds its way through the county. Bird watching is an important pastime to many. Residents and tourists are attracted to the boating, fishing and wildlife. Fisheating Creek sports a marvelous canoe trail. Walking and bicycling are enjoyed by many.