Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Description

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is a hidden gem along Florida’s southeastern coast. This coastal oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby cities and immerse themselves in natural beauty. As someone who’s spent countless weekends exploring state parks, I can confidently say this one’s a keeper!

The park boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush mangrove forests that’ll make you forget you’re just a stone’s throw from urban life. It’s a place where you can wiggle your toes in the sand, feel the sea breeze on your face, and maybe even spot a sea turtle or two if you’re lucky.

One of the things I love most about this park is its rich history. It was once known as John U. Lloyd Beach State Park, but it was renamed to honor civil rights activists Dr. Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson. These brave individuals fought for beach access for African Americans during the segregation era. So, when you’re lounging on the beach or casting a line from the jetty, you’re not just enjoying nature – you’re standing on ground that represents a significant victory for equality.

For water enthusiasts like myself, this park is practically paradise. Whether you’re into swimming, snorkeling, or diving, the park’s waters are inviting and full of marine life. And if you’re more of a landlubber, don’t worry! There are plenty of spots for picnicking, bird-watching, or just soaking up the Florida sun.

Fishing folks will find their happy place here too. The park’s jetty is a popular spot for anglers, and if you’ve got a boat, there’s a ramp where you can launch it. Just imagine spending a day out on the water, maybe catching dinner, and then grilling it up at one of the park’s picnic areas. Now that’s what I call a perfect day!

Nature lovers, get your binoculars ready! The park is home to a variety of wild birds, from elegant herons to playful pelicans. And if you’re patient (and quiet), you might even spot some of the park’s shyer residents, like raccoons or tortoises.

Now, I’ll be honest – on busy weekends, especially during peak season, the park can get pretty crowded. But don’t let that deter you! Even on its busiest days, you can always find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. And trust me, once you see a Florida sunset from this park, you’ll understand why so many people flock here.

So whether you’re a local looking for a weekend getaway or a tourist wanting to experience the best of Florida’s natural beauty, Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park should definitely be on your list. It’s more than just a park – it’s a slice of Florida paradise with a side of important history. And who knows? You might just run into me there, trying to perfect my sandcastle-building skills!

Key Features

• 2.5 miles of beautiful, unspoiled beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing
• A 1,200-foot fishing jetty extending into the Atlantic Ocean, popular among anglers
• Boat ramp providing access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean
• Diverse marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving
• Home to nesting sea turtles (seasonal – typically May to October)
• Rich birdwatching opportunities with various species of coastal and migratory birds
• Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills for family outings
• Nature trail winding through coastal hammock and mangrove swamps
• Historical significance as a former “colored beach” during segregation
• Kayak and canoe rentals available for exploring the waterways
• Designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty (seasonal)
• Educational programs and guided nature walks offered by park rangers
• Wheelchair accessible boardwalk for enjoying coastal views
• Observation tower providing panoramic views of the park and surrounding area
• Clean, well-maintained facilities including restrooms and outdoor showers

Best Time to Visit

Ah, timing – it can make or break a trip, can’t it? When it comes to visiting Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, I’d say you’ve got options all year round. But let me break it down for you based on my experiences and what I’ve heard from other park-goers.

If you’re a sun-worshipper like me and don’t mind a bit of heat and humidity, summer (June to August) can be a great time to visit. The water’s warm, perfect for swimming and water activities. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean – a truly magical sight! Just remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Fall (September to November) is my personal favorite. The crowds thin out after Labor Day, temperatures become more bearable, and the water is still warm enough for swimming. It’s also a great time for fishing, as many species are more active during this season. I remember one October afternoon spent at the jetty, reeling in snapper after snapper – talk about a good day!

Winter (December to February) in South Florida is mild compared to much of the country, making it a popular time for northern visitors. While it might be too chilly for swimming some days, it’s perfect for beach walks, picnics, and birdwatching. The park tends to be busier during this season, especially around the holidays, so plan accordingly.

Spring (March to May) is another sweet spot. The weather is generally pleasant, and you might catch some of the spring bird migrations. It’s also when sea turtle nesting season begins, though you’re more likely to see evidence of nests rather than actual turtles.

One thing to keep in mind – hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the peak typically being August to October. While chances of a major storm are relatively low, it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning a trip during this time.

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, regardless of the season. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. I’m an early bird myself, and there’s something magical about watching the sunrise over the Atlantic with barely another soul in sight.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking to do. Want to spend all day in the water? Summer’s your best bet. Prefer milder temperatures for hiking and picnicking? Aim for fall or spring. Just want to escape the cold? Winter in Florida might be just what you need. Whatever you choose, I’m sure you’ll find something to love about this park.

How to Get There

Getting to Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is pretty straightforward, but I’ll admit, the first time I visited, I managed to take a wrong turn and ended up on a scenic tour of Dania Beach! Let me save you from my mistake and give you the lowdown on how to reach this coastal paradise.

If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. It’s only about a 15-minute drive from there to the park, depending on traffic. You could grab a taxi or ride-share service, but I’d recommend renting a car if you plan on exploring the area beyond the park.

For those driving, the park is located just off the A1A, which runs along the coast. If you’re coming from the north (say, Fort Lauderdale), you’ll head south on A1A. The park entrance will be on your left, just past Dr. Von D. Mizell Drive. Coming from the south (Miami direction)? Head north on A1A, and you’ll find the entrance on your right after passing Dania Beach Pier.

Public transportation is an option too, though it’ll take a bit longer. Broward County Transit runs buses that stop near the park. The closest stop is at Sheridan Street and A1A, which is about a half-mile walk from the park entrance. It’s not a bad stroll, especially on a nice day, but keep in mind you’ll be carrying any beach gear you bring.

For the adventurous types (and I count myself among you), you could even bike to the park. There’s a nice bike path along A1A, and the park has bike racks where you can secure your ride while you enjoy the beach.

One word of caution – parking can get tight, especially on weekends and holidays. I learned this the hard way one Memorial Day when I spent more time circling the lot than I did on the beach! If you can, try to arrive early in the day to snag a spot. And don’t forget to bring cash for the parking fee.

Oh, and here’s a little insider tip: if you’re planning to launch a boat, there’s a separate entrance for the boat ramp area. It’s a bit further north on A1A, so keep an eye out for the signs.

No matter how you choose to get there, the journey is worth it. The moment you catch that first glimpse of the sparkling Atlantic through the sea grapes, you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special. Happy travels!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, fellow adventurers, let me share some nuggets of wisdom I’ve gathered over my many visits to Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. These tips might just save you from some of the rookie mistakes I’ve made (like that time I forgot bug spray and ended up as an all-you-can-eat buffet for mosquitoes).

First things first – come prepared. Florida sun is no joke, even on cloudy days. Slather on that sunscreen and reapply often. A hat and sunglasses are your friends too. And while we’re talking about protection, don’t forget the bug spray, especially if you’re planning to explore the nature trails.

Speaking of nature, remember that you’re a guest in the home of many critters. Keep your distance from wildlife, and never feed the animals. I once saw a guy try to hand-feed a seagull – let’s just say it didn’t end well for either of them.

If you’re hoping to see sea turtles, timing is everything. Nesting season runs from May to October, with peak hatching in July and August. Your best bet for seeing hatchlings is to join a guided turtle walk. Just remember, no flash photography – those little guys need all the help they can get to reach the ocean.

Bringing a picnic? Awesome idea! There are plenty of tables and grills available. But here’s a pro tip: bring your own charcoal and matches. And please, pretty please, clean up after yourself. Let’s keep this paradise pristine for everyone to enjoy.

For you water babies out there, the park has some great spots for swimming, but always check the flags before diving in. Green means go, yellow means caution, and red means stay on the sand. And if you’re planning to do some snorkeling or diving, bringing your own gear will save you some cash.

Fishing enthusiasts, don’t forget your license! You can fish from the shore or the jetty, but you’ll need a valid Florida fishing license. Trust me, the fine for fishing without one is way more than the cost of the license itself.

If you’re bringing little ones, the park has some great educational programs. Check the schedule when you arrive – my niece still talks about the time she learned to identify different types of seashells from a park ranger.

Lastly, and I can’t stress this enough, pack out what you pack in. There are trash and recycling bins throughout the park, but if they’re full, please take your waste with you. Mother Nature (and your fellow park-goers) will thank you.

Oh, and one more thing – don’t forget to stop and enjoy the moment. It’s easy to get caught up in activities and forget to simply breathe in the salty air and appreciate the beauty around you. Some of my favorite memories at this park are the quiet moments watching the waves roll in.

So there you have it, folks! Armed with these tips, you’re all set for an amazing day at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. Who knows, maybe I’ll see you there sometime. I’ll be the one building sandcastles and pretending I’m not in my 40s!

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