Ortona Locks Campground - Corps of Engineers

ortona locks campground - corps of engineers

Hello, Florida outdoor lovers and tranquility seekers! Are you longing for a serene escape where the gentle flow of water and the quiet hum of nature replace the daily grind? Then you need to discover Ortona Locks Campground, a true hidden gem managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, nestled in LaBelle, FL. This campground is consistently praised by visitors for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and fantastic access to the Caloosahatchee River and the fascinating Ortona Lock.

Ortona Locks Campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and practical amenities, making it an ideal destination for RVers and campers seeking a tranquil getaway. Imagine spending your days watching boats gracefully navigate the lock, casting a line into the fish-filled waters, or simply relaxing in the quiet, spacious surroundings. This isn't just a place to park your RV; it's a "piece off the road" where you can truly unwind and reconnect with the simple pleasures of the outdoors. Its reputation for being "always clean, quite and peaceful" speaks volumes about the experience awaiting you.

Ortona Locks Campground is situated in LaBelle, FL 33935, USA. More specifically, it is often referred to as Ortona South Campground and is located at 2410 Dalton Lane SW, Moore Haven, FL 33471, which is a short distance from LaBelle. This prime location places it directly on the Caloosahatchee River, a vital part of the Okeechobee Waterway that spans across South Florida, connecting the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.

Accessibility to Ortona Locks Campground is generally straightforward for most vehicles, including large RVs. From LaBelle, you typically travel east on SR 80 for about 8 miles to Dalton Lane, then turn north into the campground. Despite being "a piece off the road," as one reviewer noted, the paved roads within the campground and concrete RV pads ensure easy maneuvering and setup. The proximity to the Caloosahatchee River and the Ortona Lock is a major highlight, offering unique views and recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. While the campground provides a sense of quiet seclusion, the town of LaBelle is just a short drive away (approximately 8-10 miles), offering convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential services. This balance of peaceful nature and nearby amenities makes Ortona Locks Campground a perfectly accessible and desirable destination for Floridians seeking a relaxing and engaging outdoor experience.

Ortona Locks Campground, being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) facility, provides a well-maintained and comprehensive set of services designed for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• RV Campsites with Hookups: All campsites feature concrete pads and come with both 30 amp and 50 amp electric hookups, as well as water hookups, catering to various RV sizes.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and grill, along with a covered picnic table, enhancing the outdoor dining and relaxation experience.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground boasts "bath houses kept clean," with flush toilets and showers available on each end of the park.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is provided for RVers to dispose of wastewater. Dump fees may apply for waste generated prior to camping.
• Fishing Access: Guests have excellent opportunities for fishing directly off the docks and piers. Popular catches include Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Tilapia, and Snook.
• Boat Watching at the Lock: Being adjacent to the Ortona Lock, campers can enjoy watching various boats, including commercial vessels, yachts, and recreational boats, pass through the lock.
• Picnic Areas: Covered picnic areas are available for campers and potentially for day-use visitors in designated areas.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available, primarily near the west end restroom, allowing guests to stay connected if needed.
• Attendants on Duty: Campground attendants are on duty, ensuring smooth operations and assistance for campers.
• Day Use Area with Boat Launch (Ortona North): While the campground itself is Ortona South, the Ortona North Day Use Area, a 25-minute drive away, offers a boat launch ramp with no fee.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved up to 180 days in advance through Recreation.gov, and early booking is recommended as the campground "fills up quickly."
• America the Beautiful Pass Discount: Holders of an America the Beautiful Senior or Access Pass are eligible for a 50% discount on user fees.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are conveniently located throughout the campground for waste disposal.

Ortona Locks Campground truly stands out with a collection of features and highlights that consistently earn it high praise and make it a highly sought-after destination for campers in Florida.

• "Clean, Quiet, and Peaceful": This recurring theme in visitor reviews is the primary highlight. The campground's serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape from noise and crowds, while its meticulous upkeep ensures a pleasant and hygienic stay.
• Prime Location on the Caloosahatchee River: Being situated directly on the Caloosahatchee River and adjacent to the Ortona Lock offers a unique and engaging experience. Campers can enjoy beautiful water views and the fascinating spectacle of boats locking through the waterway.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The availability of docks and piers, combined with a diverse fish population (including popular species like Bass, Catfish, and Snook), makes it a fantastic spot for anglers of all skill levels.
• Spacious, Paved RV Lots: The "paved RV lots are spacious" and "concrete pads" make setting up camp easy and comfortable, accommodating even large rigs with ease. This adds to the overall comfort and convenience.
• Well-Maintained Bathhouses: Reviewers specifically mention the "bath house kept clean," which is a crucial highlight for any campground, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic experience for all guests.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The "tropical greenery" and location along the waterway attract various "large bird species," alligators, ospreys, and otters, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• Friendly Hosts/Attendants: While one reviewer didn't see an employee, other sources mention "friendly hosts who keep a watchful eye on the park," contributing to the positive and safe atmosphere.
• Shade and Scenery: The campground's terrain is flat and lined with tropical greenery, including Florida's state tree, the Sabal Palm, providing natural beauty and some welcome shade.
• Walkable Dam/Lock Area: The ability to "walk across the dam" offers an interesting activity and a different perspective for viewing water traffic and enjoying the river.

If you're ready to experience the tranquil beauty and excellent amenities of Ortona Locks Campground, here's how you can get in touch or plan your visit:

Address: While often cited as LaBelle, FL 33935, for GPS accuracy, the specific address often associated with the campground is 2410 Dalton Lane SW, Moore Haven, FL 33471, USA.

Phone: (863) 675-8400 (This number is often listed as the direct campground inquiry line for Ortona South).

You can also make reservations and find detailed information through the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation website, Recreation.gov. Given its popularity ("fills up quickly"), booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. For the most up-to-date information on availability, rates, and any specific park advisories, visiting Recreation.gov or calling the listed phone number directly would be your best approach.

For Floridians, Ortona Locks Campground is an absolutely perfect destination for a local escape, offering a blend of natural tranquility and convenient features that cater to our state's unique outdoor lifestyle. We often seek a quiet retreat from our bustling cities, and this campground delivers precisely that, being consistently described as "clean, quite and peaceful." The prime location on the Caloosahatchee River, right next to the fascinating Ortona Lock, provides a unique and constantly changing natural spectacle that's both educational and relaxing.

The well-maintained facilities, including "paved RV lots" and "bath house kept clean," mean you can enjoy the serenity of nature without sacrificing comfort. For those who love being on or near the water, the excellent fishing opportunities and the chance to watch boats pass through the lock are major draws. It’s a wonderful spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, whether you're a seasoned RVer or just looking to unwind by the water. The fact that it "fills up quickly" is a testament to its popularity among locals who have discovered this peaceful haven. Ortona Locks Campground offers a truly refreshing and authentically Floridian camping experience right in our own backyard.

Ortona Locks Campground - Corps of Engineers

LaBelle, FL 33935, USA