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    Skunk Ape Research Headquarters

    4.6 (27 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

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    Trail Lakes Campground Sign
    Martin N.

    We were at the Big Cypress National Preserve between Naples and Miami. One of side attraction is the David Shealy's Skunk Ape Research Headquarter. The Skunk Ape also known as swamp cabbage man, swamp ape, stink ape, Florida Bigfoot, sasquatch is a humanoid creature that claimed to inhibit part of Florida. Of course, it is known for its unpleasant odor as well. Some claim they resemble the legendary Yeti. While many do not believe in Skunk Ape but David Shealy and many genuinely and truly believe the skunk Ape are real with video and photographic evidence. Reports of Skunk Ape sighting were common in 60's and 70's. Skunk Ape Research Headquarter is located by the entrance to Trail Lakes Campground, Everglades Adventure Tours, Kayak Rental. It is a gift shop and, in the back, there is little zoo with a giant reticulated python, as well alligators. A few birds and parrots outside. We stop in, check it out. The little zoo is normally $6 for adult but today there is free admission because it is under renovation! One disappointment, there is no information sign or written material about Skunk Ape Research Headquarter. BTW, National Parks Service says the creature doesn't exist. Nevertheless, stop by and enjoy the spirit of Skunk Ape. Buy a snack or souvenir and have fun!

    Ochopee Post Office
    David L.

    One of the remaining eccentric Florida roadside attractions. Recommend by Dave Barry in his Florida Man book, for good reason. It's nowhere close to the scale of Gatorland and Weeki Warchee, two other top picks, but has lots of charm . Located next to the fabulous Clyde Butcher gallery on one side and the smallest US Post Office on the other.

    John M.

    Visiting the Everglades? This is a must for only $6. This is what Florida/Everglades is about. Best touristy thing to do on RT-41.

    Casey S.

    A friend recommended this place and we decided to pull in while on a van trip last winter and check it out ourselves. It was just as awesome as she said! Dave gave us a personal tour of the exotic zoo and gave us a total history lesson of the Everglades too. We ended up staying for two nights unexpectedly and have been back numerous times for their music festivals and events! A true family-owned and operated gem! The campground is beautiful and the chickee huts are super amazing! 10/10 will be back!

    Chris S.

    Kitschy, quirky stop off out in the everglades. Lots of fun statues to take pictures of and/or with, there is also a gift shop featuring skunk ape memorabilia and Florida-themed products ranging from alligator claw back scratchers to recipe books to gator jerky, candy and more. The Reptile "Zoo" was a bit overpriced for what you get, but it's a tourist trap - so you knew you were getting taken when you walked in the door. There were reptiles, most notably a gigantic reticulated python, as well as an alligator in a pond staring at you through a big floor-length window, but other than the 'gator and the python, it wasn't much more exciting than a well-stocked pet store. There were also a few (very talkative) parrots outside. We chatted with them for a bit and had fun! Stop in, check it out, buy a snack or something, get in the spirit of things and have fun. We paid for the zoo to support them, but will likely opt out on future visits.

    Angela G.

    Stopped here when it was pouring rain to try and see some wildlife. They have snacks and drinks in the gift shop. Did the tour in the back with their animals. It was so much fun. The guide was super friendly and knowledgeable. My husband and I had a great time playing with the birds, turtle and snakes and checking out the other animals. Petting that huge ticklish snake(anaconda?) was so cool. My hub didn't want to pay the 12 dollars a person but I did anyway and went in. We were both really glad we did. Definitely a must see when you're out bumming around on a rainy day!

    Michelle S.

    Quintessential "Flori-DUH" at it's finest!!!! No trip through the Everglades is complete without a photo stop and chat about all things "Squatch" with the overly enthusiastic and passionate proprietor's. Lot's of kitschy souvenir's to be the envy of all your redneck friends. I LOVE this place!

    James R.

    Today was our second time visiting. Still a great roadside attraction! Lots of native Florida wildlife and personable, Friendly staff! You definitely get a hands on experience with the animals. Will be back here again and again!

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    10 years ago

    You can really touch a baby alligator, a giant snake, parrot etc. It was an awesome experience!

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    Review Highlights - Skunk Ape Research Headquarters

    Dave gave us a personal tour of the exotic zoo and gave us a total history lesson of the Everglades too.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

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    Skunk Ape Research Headquarters - localflavor - Updated May 2026

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