Did you know that Hendry County is home to the largest Seminole Indian Reservation in Florida? This hidden gem in South Florida offers visitors a rare glimpse into authentic Old Florida, away from the crowded beaches and theme parks. With over 1,190 square miles of pristine wilderness, sugar cane fields, and waterfront vistas along Lake Okeechobee, Hendry County provides a perfect escape for travelers seeking genuine experiences.
Getting to Hendry County
Hendry County is conveniently located in South Central Florida, making it accessible from several major cities. The closest major airports are Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers (about 45 minutes from LaBelle) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) in West Palm Beach (approximately 90 minutes from Clewiston).
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If you’re driving, Hendry County is easily accessible via several major highways. From the west, take State Road 80 from Fort Myers to LaBelle. From the east, US Highway 27 connects Miami and West Palm Beach to Clewiston. The county is approximately 2 hours from Miami, 2 hours from Tampa, and 2.5 hours from Orlando.
Best Time to Visit Hendry County
The ideal time to visit Hendry County is during the dry season from November through April when temperatures are mild (70s-80s°F) and rainfall is minimal. This period also coincides with the county’s most popular events, including the Swamp Cabbage Festival in February and the Sugar Festival in April.
Summer months (May-October) bring higher temperatures (80s-90s°F) and afternoon thunderstorms. However, this can be an excellent time for budget travelers as accommodations are more affordable and fishing on Lake Okeechobee remains excellent year-round.
| Season | Temperature | Rainfall | Key Events |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 60-75°F | Low | Swamp Cabbage Festival, Sour Orange Festival |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 70-85°F | Moderate | Chalo Nitka Festival, Sugar Festival |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 80-95°F | High | Fourth of July Celebration |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 75-85°F | Moderate | Cattleman’s Assoc. Rodeo |
Where to Stay in Hendry County
Hendry County offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from historic inns to waterfront resorts and rustic cabins. The two main areas to consider staying are LaBelle and Clewiston.
LaBelle Accommodations
The county seat offers several charming options including bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly hotels. Stay here if you want to explore the Caloosahatchee River area and western Hendry County.
- Port LaBelle Inn
- Quaint bed and breakfasts
- Chain hotels along State Road 80
Clewiston Accommodations
Known as “America’s Sweetest Town,” Clewiston provides excellent access to Lake Okeechobee and eastern Hendry County attractions.
- Historic Clewiston Inn (National Register of Historic Places)
- Roland Martin’s Marina & Resort
- Uncle Joe’s Fish Camp (rustic waterfront cabins)
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Getting Around Hendry County
Having your own vehicle is essential for exploring Hendry County as public transportation is limited. The county’s attractions are spread out across a large area, and a car gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
Explore Hendry County at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all the natural beauty and attractions Hendry County has to offer.
For water exploration, boat rentals are available at Roland Martin’s Marina in Clewiston and LaBelle River Rentals. Airboat tours are another exciting way to experience the unique ecosystem of the area, especially around Lake Okeechobee and the surrounding wetlands.
Top Attractions in Hendry County, Florida
From natural wonders to cultural experiences, Hendry County offers diverse attractions for every type of traveler. Here are the best things to do during your visit:
Lake Okeechobee
As the second-largest freshwater lake entirely within the United States, Lake Okeechobee is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is renowned for its trophy bass fishing and is home to numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year. Roland Martin’s Marina & Resort offers guided fishing tours, boat rentals, and even airboat rides to explore this massive 730-square-mile lake.
Don’t miss the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST), a 110-mile trail that circles the lake and is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The Clewiston area provides excellent access points to both the lake and the trail.
Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation
Experience the rich culture of the unconquered Seminole Tribe at the Big Cypress Reservation. The Smithsonian-affiliated Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum offers fascinating exhibits on Seminole history and traditions. A mile-long boardwalk through a cypress swamp provides opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about native plants.
For a more adventurous experience, visit Billie Swamp Safari where you can take swamp buggy eco-tours, airboat rides, and even stay overnight in a traditional chickee hut. Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Seminole cuisine, including fry bread and swamp cabbage stew.
Historic LaBelle and the Caloosahatchee River
The county seat of LaBelle offers a charming downtown district with historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. Visit the Harold P. Curtis Honey Company, established in 1921, for a sweet taste of local honey. The LaBelle Heritage Museum showcases the area’s pioneer history through fascinating exhibits.
Barron Park along the Caloosahatchee River is perfect for picnics and relaxation. The river itself offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the annual Swamp Cabbage Festival held in February, celebrating the Florida state tree and featuring parades, food vendors, and entertainment.
Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss this 32,370-acre pristine wilderness that showcases pre-Columbian Florida landscapes. The forest offers excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, and bird watching opportunities. Look for Florida panthers, black bears, sandhill cranes, and wood storks in their natural habitat.
Adjacent to the state forest is the Spirit-of-the-Wild Wildlife Management Area, another excellent spot for observing native Florida wildlife. Both areas feature well-maintained trails and are particularly beautiful during the early morning and late afternoon hours when wildlife is most active.
Clewiston Museum and Sugar Industry
Learn about the fascinating history of the “Sugar Bowl of America” at the Clewiston Museum. Exhibits highlight the region’s natural history, including fossils and mammoth skeletons unearthed in Hendry County, as well as the development of the sugar industry that transformed the area.
For a deeper understanding of the sugar industry, take a Sugarland Tour that showcases the agricultural heritage of the region. These guided tours explain the process of growing and harvesting sugar cane and the economic importance of this crop to the local community.
Must-Attend Annual Events
Hendry County hosts several vibrant festivals and events throughout the year that showcase the area’s unique culture and heritage:
Swamp Cabbage Festival
Held the last full weekend in February in LaBelle, this festival celebrates Florida’s state tree with parades, arts and crafts, live music, and authentic swamp cabbage dishes. Don’t miss the armadillo races and the crowning of the Swamp Cabbage Queen!
Chalo Nitka Festival
Florida’s second oldest festival takes place in Moore Haven (neighboring Glades County) in March. “Chalo Nitka” means “Day of the Big Bass” in the Seminole language, and the festival features rodeo events, Seminole arts and crafts, and traditional foods.
Sugar Festival
Celebrated in April in Clewiston, this sweet event includes a fishing tournament, car show, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and plenty of sugar-themed treats. The festival highlights the importance of the sugar industry to the local economy.
Where to Eat in Hendry County
Hendry County offers a variety of dining options that showcase local flavors and Southern hospitality:
LaBelle Dining
- Forrey Grill – Upscale dining in downtown LaBelle with excellent steaks and seafood
- Log Cabin BBQ – Authentic Southern barbecue in a rustic setting
- Bridge Street Coffee & Tea – Cozy spot for breakfast, coffee, and homemade pastries
- Harold P. Curtis Honey Company – Not just for honey shopping; try their honey ice cream!
Clewiston Dining
- Clewiston Inn Restaurant – Classic Southern cuisine in a historic setting
- Scotty’s Tiki Bar – Waterfront dining at Roland Martin’s Marina with fresh seafood
- Common Grounds Coffee Shop – Local favorite for breakfast and lunch
- Jalapeños Mexican Restaurant – Authentic Mexican dishes and margaritas
Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like swamp cabbage (hearts of palm), fresh-caught Lake Okeechobee fish, Southern barbecue, and authentic Seminole fry bread if you visit the Big Cypress Reservation.
Practical Tips for Visiting Hendry County
Weather Preparedness
Florida’s weather can change quickly. Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and light, breathable clothing. During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so bring a light rain jacket. If visiting during winter, bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Wildlife Safety
Hendry County is home to diverse wildlife, including alligators. Always maintain a safe distance from wild animals, never feed them, and stay on designated trails. When fishing or near water, be aware of your surroundings and never swim in freshwater lakes or canals.
Rural Considerations
Parts of Hendry County are quite rural with limited cell service. Download maps for offline use, carry extra water, and plan your fuel stops. Gas stations can be far apart in some areas. Most businesses in smaller towns may close early, so check operating hours in advance.
Experience the Authentic Florida in Hendry County
Hendry County offers a refreshing alternative to Florida’s more commercialized destinations. Here, you can experience the real Florida – where sugar cane fields stretch to the horizon, alligators bask along riverbanks, and small towns preserve their unique heritage and traditions.
Whether you’re casting a line for trophy bass on Lake Okeechobee, exploring the rich culture of the Seminole Tribe, or savoring authentic Southern cuisine, Hendry County provides memorable experiences that connect you with Florida’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
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