Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and Boutique — Attraction in Crystal Lake Township

My grandson and I make an annual visit to see and feed the alpacas. I was disheartened by the negative reviews I read online and, as a customer, want to set the record straight. First, yes the merchandise is pricey, but you get what you pay for. As a knitter, I am more than happy to pay the reasonable price for 100% Alpaca wool yarn. I’m also happy to pay the prices for garments and accessories that are already made. Second, the staff is amazing if you are willing to engage with them. They are knowledgeable about the alpacas (and the llama), as well as the rescue donkeys. They are also knowledgeable about their products for sale. Witnessed an exchange during our most recent visit between a staff member and a customer purchasing yarn. The staff member quickly picked up that the customer had selected two seemingly identical yarns, but in reality they were slightly different. As a knitter I can tell you that even a slight difference in dye lot can ruin a project. The staff member walked the customer through checking the color differences in a professional and helpful way. Third, people need to learn the difference between pets and working animals. The Great Pyrenees dogs that guard these beautiful alpacas are working dogs and are cared for. I was raised with these magnificent dogs and can say with confidence that they are enjoying their best lives. Fourth, I am so proud of this farm for adopting rescue donkeys and trying to make their lives better. I am looking forward to next year’s visit. Please know that you are amazing and the highlight of our...

Wonderful place I visit as often as possible! There is a store with amazing & unique Alpaca hair items from a wide selection of socks to clothes, purses, jewelry and more! When you drive in, there is a whole Alpaca farm with a lot of adorable Alpacas and the specially trained dog who protects them, sorry I forget the name of the breed. Up next to the store is another, smaller store with items for all. From stuffed Alpacas that are works of art in my opinion to ornaments, a section for all ages of kids, home decor and more. This is the store to the right as you pull into the lot, the Boutique is on the left. Well, while you’re in the smaller store on the right, you can purchase food to feed the Alpacas in the back of this store, more farmland with goats and donkeys, too, but you have signs to remind you feed Alpacas only. They’re amazingly soft to pet and friendly. Cashiers have always been so friendly, too. Always a very enjoyable experience. I highly recommend Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm...

Ugh! I was bummed about our short experience this past autumn. I was looking forward to our visit while on our way to a second destination. Our nine week old pup was with us and although I saw the sign about not having animals near the barn, I was across the way at the boutique. I sat at the picnic table holding the pup in my lap while my friends explored. Unfortunately as soon as I sat, a young woman ran out of the boutique and honestly yelled at me for having the pup out of the car. I apologized not realizing the pup on my lap would be an issue. It was embarrassing to be honest. Being yelled at in front of my friends and other customers. Believe me, I wasn’t arguing. I simply apologized. My friends weren’t having any of it. We left instead of visiting. I understand she was bothered, but there are better and more productive ways to...