This small venue is interesting but could use some TLC. The animals are the highlight, but the setting is a bit casual and unappealing. When I made my reservation, the young man who booked it told me not to arrive early because there was nothing to do. Out front was a small dirt parking lot. The office looked more like a converted tool shed than a workspace, and the restroom was a set of port-a-potties. To add to the visuals, directly in front of the office doors was a jar with a hand-written sign soliciting tips. I’m all for getting money for the guides; it just seemed there might be a more professional way to advertise.
The boardwalk around the animal enclosures seemed a bit dodgy. It had boards that appeared to be rotting and some that were squishy to walk on. I wasn’t sure whether to say it was wheelchair accessible or not so I asked our guide. He indicated they’d had people in wheelchairs before. Perhaps I should’ve asked what year.
I thought the pens’ fencing looked dilapidated in places and the landscaping was nonexistent. On the other hand, what company is going to send someone into a crocodile pen to groom the shrubbery? The water in the pens always seemed a bit scummy but maybe that’s the way crocs and alligators like it. Who knows?
Or maybe it was the story he told that had me concerned about the upkeep of the pens. As I’m standing on squooshy boardwalk, wondering what happens if my leg falls through, he related the story of the female crocodile that had viciously attacked the newcomer, a younger male. They were forced to put in wire fencing between the two sections of the pond to keep them separated. He returned the next morning to check on the male but didn’t see the female. Was she underwater? Well, no. She’d broken through the boards in the back and escaped, possibly looking for a way into the other side. How reassuring to know they’re smart enough to get out.
The best part of the tour was the up-close-and-personal encounter when our guide brought out the baby turtles and juvenile alligators. Although we couldn’t touch it, he also picked up a snapping turtle for us to see along the way.
Croc Encounters Reptile Park is a small place, and I found the tour fun and informative. But first impressions count and mine was that it started as someone’s personal rescue property and “tour” was an afterthought. As long as you don’t expect pristine living conditions, manicured lawns or indoor bathrooms, you’ll enjoy it. It is, indeed, quite informative. And really, how many tours can you take where you get to “pet” an alligator?
Last but not least (and totally unrelated to a croc encounter) is this beauty who greeted us near the end of the tour. Funny – I wasn’t as concerned about him getting out.
- 8702 Bowles Rd., Tampa
- 813-217-4400
- $49.96
- Wheelchair accessible? Our guide says yes; I wasn’t sure
Lisa Browder 
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