Reptile Gardens

Founded in 1937 by our reptile loving patriarch, Earl Brockelsby, Reptile Gardens has steadily grown to one of the leading tourist attractions in the Midwest - we house more species of reptiles than any other zoo or park in the world. Our second and third generations are dedicated to carrying on Earl's legacy, not only by having top-notch displays, but while also offering outstanding hospitality. This latter quality was honored by the State of South Dakota in 1994 when we became the second recipient of the George Mickelson Award for Great Service to South Dakota visitors. Today, we continue on as a family business with Earl's nephew, Joe Maierhauser, as the President, Chairman of the Board, & CEO, Earl’s sons, John as director of public relations, and Jeff as corporate treasurer, his daughter, Judee Oldham, is the corporate secretary and her son, Jeff Oldham, is sales manager.