Author Archives: Quinn Pochekailo

A Testament to Trusted Stewardship

Guest Services, Inc. has once again earned the trust of the National Park Service, officially securing a 10-year renewal of its contract to operate Willow Beach Marina and Campground, a beloved gateway to the Colorado River nestled in the heart of Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

This continuation of service reaffirms GSI’s long-standing commitment to delivering exceptional outdoor recreation and hospitality experiences across some of America’s most iconic public lands.

A Vote of Confidence in Quality and Care

The renewed agreement, awarded through a competitive process, entrusts GSI with the continued operation of Willow Beach’s core amenities, including:

• The marina, offering boat rentals, fuel, and river access
• A well-stocked general store and café
• A beloved RV lot and campground
• Scenic picnic and day-use areas that welcome thousands of visitors annually

“Being chosen to continue our operations at Willow Beach is a proud moment for our entire team,” said Chad Taylor, Director of Operations, Hospitality. “We don’t take this responsibility lightly. It reflects the strength of our partnerships, the dedication of our on-site teams, and the consistently high level of service we’ve brought to the property for years.”

A Proven Track Record on the Colorado River

Willow Beach has been under the management of GSI since 2012. Over the years, the company has enhanced the visitor experience while preserving the site’s natural and cultural integrity. The marina and campground serve as a launching point for paddlers entering Black Canyon, a dramatic stretch of the Colorado River framed by volcanic cliffs and teeming with wildlife.

“From interpretive recreation to sustainable hospitality, we are excited to continue investing in Willow Beach’s future,” Chad added. “This isn’t just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a place people return to again and again. We’re honored to be part of what makes that possible.”

Looking Ahead

With this new 10-year term, GSI will build on more than a decade of successful stewardship, with plans to enhance guest services, streamline operations, and further strengthen environmental practices in alignment with NPS goals.

This renewed partnership between Guest Services and the National Park Service supports the continued delivery of high-quality experiences at Willow Beach Marina for a wide range of visitors.

A Coastal Retreat Rooted in Resilience

Located in Dania Beach, just south of Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park is more than a coastal escape; it’s a living tribute to cultural resilience and natural preservation. Spanning over 300 acres, the park offers one of South Florida’s last undeveloped coastal ecosystems, making it a haven for wildlife, water recreation, and reflection.

Originally founded as a segregated beach, the park was renamed in honor of civil rights leaders Dr. Von Mizell and Eula Johnson, who led the fight for public beach access for Black residents in the 1950s and 60s. Today, the park stands as a symbol of progress, inclusion, and community pride.

New Event Coordinator Tiamara Hong is feeling optimistic about what’s ahead. “Excited is an understatement—overjoyed and optimistic is more like it,” she shared. With plans for new rewards programs, expanded community events, full-service weddings, and online restaurant ordering, she sees a future full of momentum and possibility at Mizell. “We want to be the place people think of first when they’re planning something special or just looking for a relaxing day by the water.”

Why Mizell Stands Out

• Two and a half miles of uncrowded coastline: complete with beach chairs, shells to hunt for, and even seasonal Jacquemontia flowers along the shore
• Whiskey Creek’s hidden sanctuary: this calm, mangrove‑lined waterway supports manatee sightings and paddle adventures away from the busy Intracoastal
• Snorkel-ready reef access: drift into one of three offshore “Erojacks” reefs straight from the beach—no boat needed—and spot colorful marine life
• Whiskey Creek Hideout perks: rent kayaks, paddleboards, beach chairs, and even beach wheelchairs; grab a bite with online ordering from the concessionaire
• Event-ready infrastructure: seven covered pavilions, a boat ramp, picnic grills, and an environmental education center make it ideal for weddings, gatherings, or outdoor classes

The park also has excellent birdwatching along the Great Florida Birding Trail, paved biking on the 2.5-mile scenic drive, and beachside nighttime turtle walks.

With Guest Services, Inc. at the helm, a wave of purposeful enhancements and community-driven programming are on the horizon. Planned initiatives include:

• Affordable, full-service wedding packages that make Mizell a go-to venue for couples seeking a scenic and stress-free celebration by the water
• Expanded cultural and recreational programming, including new community events, family-friendly beach days, and guided night tours through Whiskey Creek
• Local loyalty perks, such as discounted equipment rentals and special offers for Broward and Miami-Dade residents
• Pop-up food and wellness events at the pavilions and Hideout Restaurant to highlight local vendors and engage returning guests
• Digital upgrades, including online ordering at The Hideout and improved access to rental bookings and event info via mobile
• Environmental education experiences, from reef-focused snorkel tours to nature walks celebrating the park’s biodiversity and history

These efforts are designed to deepen Mizell’s ties with the surrounding community while inviting more visitors to experience the park’s unique blend of relaxation, recreation, and cultural significance.

“This park has so much potential, and we’re already making great progress,” says Area Manager Matt Smith. “Our focus is on building strong connections with the community, improving the guest experience, and making sure our team has the tools and support they need to deliver something special here every day.”

“Integrating Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park into the Guest Services portfolio is a significant step,” says Laura Sherman, Vice President of Hospitality. “It reflects our commitment to honoring cultural heritage while elevating guest experiences. We’re focused on delivering thoughtful programming, community-driven events, and enhanced amenities that both celebrate the park’s legacy and create memorable moments for every visitor.”

Where Legacy and Leisure Meet

With its rich civil rights history, oceanfront access, and renewed commitment to community-centered recreation, Mizell is poised to become a standout destination in the Guest Services, Inc. portfolio. Whether you’re watching a sunset, launching a kayak, or attending your dream wedding, a visit to Mizell offers exceptional connections.