Quick Info
Location: Mosca, 15 miles north of Alamosa. What: Reptile rescue featuring 400+ alligators. Why here: Geothermal water from tilapia farm. Experience: Educational, quirky, hands-on. Good for: Families, anyone who appreciates weird roadside attractions.
Yes, there are alligators in Colorado. Hundreds of them. Colorado Gators started as a tilapia farm using geothermal water, then acquired alligators to eat the fish waste. Now it's one of Colorado's strangest and most memorable attractions.
The park rescues alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles from owners who can no longer care for them. It's educational, hands-on, and unlike anything else you'll find in Colorado—or anywhere else at 7,500 feet elevation.
The Animals
Alligators
Over 400 alligators call Colorado Gators home. From babies you can hold to full-grown adults. Most are rescues from people who bought them as pets and couldn't handle them as they grew.
Crocodiles
Several species of crocodiles, including some rare and endangered varieties. Different from alligators and arguably more dangerous.
Other Reptiles
Snakes (including large pythons), tortoises, iguanas, and other reptiles. Also some non-reptile residents including an emu.
The Experience
Hold a Baby Gator
One of the main draws—holding and photographing with baby alligators. Supervised and safe. Kids love it.
Wrestling
For the adventurous, alligator wrestling classes are available. You'll learn how to safely handle (restrain) an alligator. Certificate included.
Feeding
Watch feeding times for the big gators. Dramatic and educational. Check schedule when you arrive.
Self-Guided Tour
Walk through the facility at your own pace. Informational signs explain the animals and the farm's history.
Why Alligators Here?
The San Luis Valley has significant geothermal resources. In the 1980s, Erwin and Lynne Young started a tilapia fish farm using 87°F geothermal water. Alligators were brought in to eat fish waste and maintain the ponds.
Word spread, and people started bringing unwanted pet alligators. The rescue aspect grew, and eventually the education and tourism side became the main business.
Visiting
Hours: Open daily, year-round. Check current hours before visiting.
Duration: Plan 1-2 hours depending on your interest level.
Cost: Modest admission. Additional fees for wrestling classes and some activities.
Facilities: Basic. Gift shop with gator merchandise. Porta-potties.
Tips
Combine with Sand Dunes. Colorado Gators is on the route between Alamosa and Great Sand Dunes. Easy to visit both in one day.
Bring cash. Rural Colorado. Cash is appreciated.
Call ahead in winter. Hours may vary in off-season. The gators are there year-round (heated water) but operations may be limited.
Set expectations. It's a working farm and rescue, not a slick tourist attraction. Embrace the quirky, educational vibe.
Support the mission. These are rescue animals. Your admission helps care for creatures that can't go back to the wild.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe?
Yes—supervised and managed properly. The staff knows what they're doing. Follow their instructions.
Is it ethical?
It's a rescue operation. These animals were pets that owners couldn't keep. There's nowhere else for them to go. The park provides education about why these shouldn't be pets.
Good for kids?
Yes—holding baby gators is a highlight. Educational about reptiles and responsibility. Not scary if approached right.
How do the gators survive winter?
Geothermal water keeps pools at 87°F year-round. The gators never experience cold temperatures despite Colorado winters.
Can I really wrestle an alligator?
Yes, with proper instruction. Classes teach safe handling techniques. You'll get a certificate. It's more about control than fighting.