Support Bigfoot Museum Founder Mike Rugg After Fire

Late last night, an electrical fire broke out at the home of Mike Rugg, founder of the Bigfoot Discovery Museum in Felton, California.

While we’re beyond grateful to Cal Fire CZU that the museum and its irreplaceable Bigfoot collection were spared, Mike’s home — his cabin of many years — was completely destroyed. He’s now displaced, having lost everything he owned.

If you know Santa Cruz, you know the Bigfoot Discovery Museum isn’t just a quirky roadside attraction, it’s part of our culture. For over 20 years, Mike has welcomed visitors from around the globe and has helped to "Keep Santa Cruz Weird" in the best way possible: by creating a space where curiosity, cryptids, and community collide.

The museum has long been a symbol of the unique spirit of the Santa Cruz Mountains. A reminder that magic still exists in the world and that strange stories are often the best to bring people together.

Now, the man behind it all is facing an overwhelming loss.

-About Me-

My name is Nate. I was born and raised in Felton, and I’m proud to call Mike Rugg my stepdad.

The Bigfoot Discovery Museum played a huge role in shaping who I am — my very first job was wearing the Bigfoot costume and dancing on the side of the road to attract visitors.

Now I want to do whatever I can to help Mike through this devastating loss.

-How the Funds Will Be Used-

All funds raised will go directly toward helping Mike immediately recover:

Securing stable housing

Replacing basic necessities and personal belongings

Starting the long process of recovery and rebuilding his life

If you’ve ever visited the museum, shared your Sasquatch stories, or simply believe in keeping the Santa Cruz Mountains a unique place, please consider donating or sharing this campaign.

Thank you for standing with Mike and helping preserve a piece of what makes Santa Cruz weird.

We believe — in Bigfoot, in community, and in you.