Prescribed Burn Notification
- The South Florida Water Management District in coordination with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission plans to conduct a prescribed burn of up to 4,000 acres in Okeechobee County today, Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The burn is in Lake Okeechobee, Kings Bar and Eagle Bay units, Near Buckhead Ridge and approximately 2.5 miles south of the town of Okeechobee. Smoke may be visible in the area of the burn as identified in the map here.
At the end of the old Kissimmee River, on the north side of S-65E, you’ll find an expanse of thick marsh that is virtually inaccessible, except for cuts in the old river. The old river resembles the look of the C-38 Canal here because it is very wide as it runs through the overgrown marsh. The more adventurous might want to park by the marshy pasture at the north end and walk to higher ground to find a shady oak for a picnic.
The western border of Paradise Run resembles the edge of a puzzle piece because the old Kissimmee River, with its snaking switchbacks, forms the boundary. Fishing is good in the old river.
This is an outstanding location for bird watching. There are a variety of wading birds including inland shorebirds, waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and other upland birds.
Hunting is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Visit myfwc.com for hunting dates, regulations and detailed license information.
For more information, please call the District Recreation Hotline at 866-433-6312 or email recreation@sfwmd.gov.
Directions
- Paradise Run: Can be accessed off SW Rucks Dairy Road and SR 78.
- S-65E Impoundment: Only accessible by water. The closest boat ramp is the Kissimmee River Fishing Resort (private, small fee). Platt’s Bluff Public Boat Ramp, located at 15925 NW 56th St., Okeechobee, FL 34972, can also be used.
