Reptile Gardens to Visit the Chip

Check out the scales on that one! We’re talking about the Snakes and reptiles that will be joining the fun at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Tuesday, August 10th. The world-renowned family attraction in Rapid City, South Dakota is taking a trip to visit everyone at the Buffalo Chip and give campers something to tell their friends about after. The show-and-tell of some popular deadly snakes featuring- rattlesnakes, cobras, pythons with a special appearance by Fluffy the gator happens during the Sturgis rally and only at the Buffalo Chip. This show-and-tell will also give you the chance to have an up close and personal experience with these reptiles, but don’t worry, the professional snake keepers will be there to assist you and discuss snake safety, including precautions to take if you ever come face-to-face with these fearsome creatures in the wild.

The reptiles and snakes have been a biker favorite and we look forward to having the creatures out at the campground. They will be the star of the show on Tuesday and make special appearances at the Chip FANFest. Campers are encouraged to bring their cameras and get in on the fun. This is another reason to make sure you are at the Buffalo Chip from 4pm-8pm on Tuesday August 10.

Reptile Gardens was founded in 1937 by 21 year-old reptile enthusiast Earl Brockelsby. Earl had been fascinated by snakes since he was a child and kept many creatures as pets. It didn’t take friends and neighbors long to be both intrigued and fearful as they filled his yard eager to observe these creatures. Soon after he and some friends built a display and on June 3, 1937, Reptile Gardens was officially open. Earl began adding other reptiles to his collection such as: giant tortoises, alligators, crocodiles, lizards, and exotic poisonous snakes from the four corners of the globe. Alligator, snake and bird shows were also added. Although Earl passed away in 1993, his extended family continues his legacy today making Reptile Gardens the ‘South Dakota Family Business of the Year’ in 2008. Today the Reptile Gardens houses more species of reptiles than any other zoo or park in the world and also seeks to educate the public on important environmental issues and they are dedicated to keeping Reptile Gardens one of the premier family attractions in the Midwest.

Be sure to check out these fascinating creatures at the Kinison Playground and around the Buffalo Chip Grounds, August 10th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. You don’t want to miss it

2024 Sturgis Buffalo Chip

Pre-Rally Party Jul. 29–Aug. 1
Concerts Aug. 2–Aug. 11

2025 Sturgis Buffalo Chip

Pre-Rally Party Jul. 28–Jul. 31
Concerts Aug. 1–Aug. 10

Contact Us

Cody Ertman
[email protected]
Office: 605-347-9000