Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park — A barrier island park in Dania Beach, Florida, near Fort Lauderdale — featuring shore-accessible snorkeling and scuba diving on natural reefs and the iconic Erojacks artificial reef, the 3.8-mile Whiskey Creek Paddling Trail through mangrove-lined estuaries (manatee habitat), Atlantic beach swimming, boat ramps to Port Everglades, and watercraft rentals.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (formerly John U. Lloyd Beach State Park) is South Florida’s best-kept underwater secret — one of the few state parks where you can snorkel or scuba dive directly from shore to natural reef systems. The park sits on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, with mangrove-lined Whiskey Creek running through its center — a paddling paradise where manatees are frequent visitors.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 6503 N. Ocean Dr., Dania Beach, FL |
| Setting | Barrier island — Atlantic + Intracoastal |
| Reef Access | 3 reef systems — 100 yds to 2 mi offshore |
| Erojacks | 1967 concrete artificial reef — perpendicular to shore |
| Paddling Trail | Whiskey Creek — 3.8-mile mangrove loop |
| Rentals | BG Whiskey Creek Hideout — kayak, canoe, SUP |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Snorkeling | Shore-access — natural reef 100–300 yds + Erojacks |
| Scuba Diving | 3 reef systems — corals, sea turtles, nurse sharks |
| Swimming | Atlantic Ocean beach — lifeguards seasonal |
| Kayaking/SUP | Whiskey Creek — 3.8-mi mangrove paddling trail |
| Canoeing | Mangrove estuaries — manatee habitat |
| Boating | Boat ramps — Port Everglades Inlet access |
| Fishing | Shore + boat — reef fish, snapper |
| Picnicking | Beachside — tables, showers, grills |
| Wildlife Viewing | Manatees, sea turtles, tropical fish, birds |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Erojacks?
Erojacks are large concrete structures shaped like children’s jacks, deployed in 1967 as erosion-control barriers. They run perpendicular to the shore and have evolved into a thriving artificial reef, attracting corals, tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, lobsters, and grouper. They’re accessible by swimming from shore.
Do I need my own snorkel/dive gear?
Yes — there is no gear rental at the park itself. Bring your own snorkel, mask, and fins. For scuba, you’ll need full certification and equipment. Several dive shops near Fort Lauderdale offer rental gear. Remember: a diver-down flag is required by Florida law.
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