Experiences & Amenities

Casual and experienced cyclists like to travel the 2.5-mile park drive from Dania Beach Boulevard to Port Everglades Inlet.

Since it is the only way in and out, the road is two directional. Cyclers are encouraged to travel in single-file lines so traffic may pass safely.

• Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists and Florida law requires helmets for riders age 16 years and under.

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is a treasured spot for bird- watchers. As a noted spot on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, this park offers year-round habitat for many native and migratory bird species.

The park is part of the migratory flight path for many species and is an ideal site for these transients to stop, rest and feed before resuming their long journey.

Along the shoreline, pelicans, terns, gulls, ruddy turnstones and sanderlings are common sights. Meanwhile, warblers, sparrows, pigeons, doves and black birds may be seen darting through the tropical hardwood hammock.

Herons, egrets, skimmers, ibises and storks are easily seen feeding in the tidal creek. Ospreys can also be spotted in the park, flying high above the water and using their keen eyesight to search for fish.

Whether a beginner or a pro, bird-watchers will not be disappointed by the wide variety of bird species that can be seen in the park.

Be sure to bring your binoculars when you come to visit, and wear plenty of sunscreen!

One of the most popular recreational activities in South Florida is boating. At Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, we offer boaters excellent amenities.

The park’s boat ramp can launch trailered boats up to 36 feet in length, and the adjacent parking lot can accommodate 90 vehicle and trailer rigs. Our boat ramp is the closest launching area to Port Everglades Inlet, which gives a boater quick access to the Atlantic Ocean and allows for greater time on the water. 

Another perk the boating public may enjoy is the sheltered area in Whiskey Creek, where a boater may beach their boat on the sandy bottom. 

From there, boaters may have a picnic, visit the beach or grab a meal at Whiskey Creek Hideout, which is the official concessionaire for the park. Besides food, BG Whiskey Creek Hideout also offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals so visitors can further explore the water and surrounding mangroves.

Fishing is permitted on the beach as long as there are no swimmers in the immediate area. Species like red snapper, Florida grouper, Spanish mackerel, yellow tail and more may be caught.

• A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fishing in Florida website.

The 1.5-mile mangrove-lined waterway called Whiskey Creek is a scenic place to canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard.

• Rentals are available at the Whiskey Creek Hideout, the park’s concessionaire.

Escape the hectic pace of the metropolis and reconnect with nature. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas, which feature tables and grills.

• The tables and grills are available for visitors on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Access this area from Parking Lots 2, 4 and 5 along the beach.

The park is available for weddings and other functions (graduations, birthdays, receptions, parties, etc.) both during and after normal park operating hours with a permit.

• For more information, contact our concessionaire, Whiskey Creek Hideout, at 954-929-4970.

There are three reef systems just offshore. The closest is about 300 yards off shore. The second one is close to a half-mile and the last is over 2 miles out.

• By Florida law, divers must have a red diver down flag to identify their approximate location while underwater.
• Remember, never dive alone. Always have a buddy and a dive plan.

Take a leisurely stroll along 2 miles of beach to find seashells in a variety of beautiful shapes and colors.

• Remember, no live shelling. If an animal still calls the shell home, leave it there.

Snorkeling is a popular activity along the 2-mile beach.

The park features 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach front. Swimmers may enjoy the temperate waters, lounge on the sandy beach, build a sand sculpture or just enjoy the ocean view.

Park visitors can enjoy the great beauty of our well-known beach. It offers a firm sandy bottom and a beautiful view of the Florida coastline.

Visitors to coastal parks are reminded to pay close attention to the Warning Flag Signs posted at welcome stations and on the beaches. These flags indicate the swimming conditions at the beach:

• Double red flags mean absolutely no swimming because of high winds and undertow currents
• Red flag means high surf and/or strong currents
• Yellow flag means swim with caution and stay close to shore
• Green flag means that the waters are safe
• Purple flag means that marine pests are present.

Swim at your own risk. No lifeguards are on duty.

Walking, running and hiking are available on the 0.4-mile Barrier Nature Trail and the 3-mile service road. 

The nature trail offers a leisurely 45-minute self-guided walk through the subtropical coastal hammock

Walking on the 2.5-mile beach front is also popular. 

Have your special wedding at the park by the beach.

• For more information, contact our concessionaire, Whiskey Creek Hideout, at 954-929-4970.

A tidal waterway - Whiskey Creek or New River Sound - divides the park along its length. It is a protected zone for the endangered West Indian manatee and a great variety of other marine life.

While enjoying the beach, keep an eye out for dolphins swimming offshore.