1989

Debbie Mattox established the Sasquatch Zoo. It all began with a canoe ride on the Shoal River, where Debbie was accompanied by a spider monkey. However, due to the river flooding, Debbie had to relocate her animals to higher ground near Highway 90, the zoo’s present-day location.

2017

We bought a zoo!! It was time to pass the torch, and the de Ridder Family stepped up to the challenge. They moved onto the zoo property, renamed it Emerald Coast Zoo, and are now devoted to sharing their love for animal care with the community.

2022

Debbie still educates the community on animal conservation through her dedication and hard work at the zoo. The de Ridder family is also working tirelessly towards their lifelong dream of making the zoo an incredible place for animals and visitors.

Present

The Emerald Coast Zoo is constantly growing and drawing in visitors from across the nation. We’re building new exhibits and providing a home to even more animals. To God be the Glory!