About
Critter Cove LLC in Harrisonburg, Virginia has become a destination store — the kind of place people drive two, three, even four hours to visit. And they leave saying it was worth every mile. This independently owned shop specializes in freshwater fish with a selection that consistently surprises even seasoned hobbyists: mudskippers, long-finned tetras, panda corydoras, various loaches, shrimp species, and axolotls share space with a rotating cast of species you simply won't find at chain retailers.
The tanks are immaculate. Multiple reviewers single out the aquascaping and bioappropriate setups as genuinely beautiful — curated displays that double as inspiration for customers building their own planted tanks. The store stocks aquatic plants, driftwood, filtration systems, and lighting alongside frozen and specialty fish foods, with staff who will steer you away from freeze-dried options and explain exactly why.
A Spanish-language review confirms they also carry some saltwater fish, broadening the store's appeal across water types. But Critter Cove isn't fish-only. Reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, isopods, and jumping spider micro habitats fill out the terrestrial side, and the resident store parrot — described by one customer as "a comedian" — adds personality to every visit.
Ball pythons and leopard geckos leave in the hands of educated owners, thanks to staff members like Skylar, Jeff, and Kara, who take time to discuss proper husbandry, enclosure setup, and nutrition before any animal goes home. The owner's stated mission — running an ethical pet store — shows in every detail, from the health of the animals to the condition of the enclosures to the patience of the staff. Prices consistently undercut big box competitors, and customers report getting more fish for less money.
For Harrisonburg locals and anyone within driving distance of the Shenandoah Valley, Critter Cove delivers the rare combination of uncommon species, fair pricing, and staff who genuinely care where their animals end up.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Uncommon freshwater species including mudskippers, long-finned tetras, panda corydoras, and various loaches
- Prices consistently lower than big box pet stores
- Beautifully aquascaped display tanks with live plants and driftwood
- Axolotl supplies and expert care advice on-site
- Ethically sourced animals kept in bioappropriate conditions
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Great local pet store! The prices here are cheaper than major retailers, and they've got some pretty cool species displayed, like this mudskipper.”
— Half Frog5.05 days ago“Great petshop with lots of unique items & critters. Highly recommend.”
— James Whiteside5.02 weeks ago“This store is amazing. First visit was yesterday and I love it. The selection is unbeatable. The staff were super helpful. I have a smaller tank and was going to add a few more fish. The lady there gave me great advice on what to hold off on for my next tank and a few things I could add into the one I have now for clean up. I could have spent another hour or more in there checking out the selection. (For others not in Harrisonburg, they are so worth the drive to them!!!) I will be back!”
— Casie Nicholson5.02 weeks ago“10/10, no comments. Customer service, care, quality, ect.”
— Slug5.02 weeks ago“Critter Cove is the absolute best place to get your new pet! All of the critters are ethically sourced and living happily in bio-appropriate conditions. The staff are incredibly friendly and the owner is extremely knowledgeable! We drove 2.5 hours to see the available critters and it was completely worth it. Would absolutely recommend!”
— Carol5.02 weeks ago“So glad we found Critter Cove. The ladies here are very knowledgeable and have been a huge help with our Axolotl. Our go to for everything we need.”
— Stacie Ward5.03 weeks ago“The reviews were accurate. We stopped by this little gem on the way home from a trip. They have fish that I am not able to find where we live (shrimp, loaches, unique plants, and even the long finned tetras, panda corys) Everyone made the trip home safely and even after a water change and some plant re-arrangements are still thriving. I felt like I spent less money and got more fish than usual for the price compared to where I live. I wish they were closer. They were also very helpful on educating regarding environments and best types of food. I had no idea freeze dried food can expand in the fish's stomachs and got some frozen food which everyone is loving in the tank. They also had some cool lizards and store parrot. Great spot. I hope they are very successful, the pets all looked very healthy and had good living conditions.”
— Ashley Balazs5.03 weeks ago“I love it here! I’m here so often and every single time I’m greeted so nicely. Everyone here is so friendly and so helpful. I truly appreciate the hard work they do here. AMAZING prices, ALWAYS something great in stock. All the animals are well taken care of. I 100% recommend Critter Cove. MUCH BETTER than the other pet stores especially for the ~fish~”
— MegaTinyProductions5.0a month ago“I bought my ball python here on Friday and both Jeff and the owner were great!! They answered any questions I had, educated me on care, and just overall super kind and helpful!”
— LaKaila Howard5.0a month ago“Lots and lots and lots of supplies and great staff! Highly recommend!”
— Matt Wyatt5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (540) 433-2124 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Critter Cove LLC.