Top Family Farms And U-Pick Orchards In Boone County

There’s something timeless about walking through rows of fruit trees, breathing in the scent of fresh produce, and filling a basket with food you picked yourself.

In today’s world of grocery chains and pre-packaged meals, the chance to spend a day on a family farm or in a U-pick orchard feels both refreshing and rewarding. Boone County, with its rich farmland and deep agricultural roots, offers some of the best farm experiences in the region.

But here’s the challenge: with so many farms, farmers markets, and seasonal orchards, it can be hard to know which farms are worth visiting, what’s in season, and how to prepare for your trip.

Families often find themselves searching last minute, only to realize the farm they wanted is closed for the season, or that strawberries are long gone while apples are just starting.

This guide promises to fix that problem. You’ll find a comprehensive look at Boone County’s top family farms and U-pick orchards, including what produce they offer, their season dates, amenities, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Whether you’re planning a fun weekend outing with kids, stocking up on fresh produce for canning, or simply looking for an Instagram-worthy pumpkin patch, you’ll find everything you need right here.

Why Boone County is Perfect for Family Farms & Orchards

Boone County’s agricultural history stretches back centuries, shaping both the land and the community. Early settlers quickly realized that the county’s combination of fertile soils, rolling hills, and a mild climate created the perfect environment for farming.

Over the years, fields that once produced staple crops like corn and wheat evolved into diverse operations that now include fruit orchards, berry patches, vineyards, and pumpkin fields. This mix of tradition and innovation has allowed agriculture to remain one of Boone County’s strongest identities.

Unlike large-scale industrial farming operations, many of Boone County’s farms are family-run businesses that have been passed down for several generations. These farms are more than just a livelihood; they represent a way of life.

Families grow up working the land, learning how to plant, harvest, and care for crops, and then pass those skills and values to the next generation. In some cases, the same orchards that were planted by grandparents are still producing fruit for their grandchildren to harvest today.

When you visit a Boone County farm, you’re not just buying produce — you’re stepping into a living tradition. Each field, barn, and orchard row tells a story of resilience, hard work, and community.

Supporting these family farms keeps local agriculture alive and ensures that fresh, healthy produce continues to be available for future generations.

For families with children, a trip to one of these farms is more than a weekend outing. It’s an opportunity to show kids where food really comes from, far beyond the aisles of a grocery store.

From picking strawberries straight off the vine to walking through rows of apple trees, children gain a hands-on lesson in food, nature, and sustainability.

In Boone County, farming isn’t just business — it’s heritage, culture, and community all rolled into one.

What to Look For in a U-Pick Farm

Before we dive into the top farms, let’s explore what makes a U-pick farm experience truly enjoyable.

Seasonal Variety

• Spring – strawberries, asparagus, peas, lettuce
• Summer – blueberries, blackberries, peaches, sweet corn, tomatoes
• Fall – apples, pears, pumpkins, squash, sunflowers
• Winter (limited) – Christmas trees, farm markets with preserves

Amenities That Add Value

• Farm Stands selling fresh baked goods, honey, jams, and cider
• Family Activities like wagon rides, petting zoos, and corn mazes
• Education Opportunities with farm tours and demonstrations
• Accessibility with restrooms, parking, and shaded rest areas

Payment & Reservations

• Some farms accept only cash or check.
• Larger farms often allow credit/debit payments.
• Special events (like sunflower festivals or Halloween hayrides) may require advance booking.

Top Family Farms & U-Pick Orchards in Boone County

Here’s a detailed look at the most notable farms in Boone County (focusing on Kentucky, though some points apply to nearby Boone Counties in other states).

Farm/Orchard	Location	Produce & U-Pick Offerings	Season / Opening Months	Key Amenities & Notes
McGlasson Farms	Hebron, KY	Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, apples, pumpkins, sunflowers	May–October	Historic 6th-generation farm; farm stand; scenic Ohio River views
Boone County Farmers Market	Burlington, KY	Wide variety of produce, meats, dairy, flowers	May–October	Multiple vendors; hosted at Boone County Extension grounds
Neltner’s Farm (near Boone)	Melbourne, KY (short drive)	Pumpkins, apples, fresh veggies, fall festivals	September–October	Live music, food stalls, kids’ activities, famous fall festival
Reid’s Orchard (regional option)	Owensboro, KY	Apples, peaches, strawberries, pears, blackberries	Spring–Fall	Well-known orchard; hosts Apple Festival every fall
Small Family Orchards (listed via PickYourOwn.org)	Boone County, KY	Apples, pumpkins, gourds	Fall	Varies by farm; usually smaller family-run operations

Spotlight: McGlasson Farms

No guide to Boone County farming would be complete without McGlasson Farms. Operating for over six generations, McGlasson is a local landmark.

Families come from across Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio to pick strawberries in June, peaches in July, apples in September, and pumpkins in October. The farm’s location along the Ohio River adds stunning views, making it perfect for photos.

Kids love the open space, and adults appreciate the chance to buy not only fresh fruit but also farm-made cider, honey, and preserves. In the fall, their pumpkin fields and sunflower patches attract photographers and school groups.

The Boone County Farmers Market Experience

While not a U-pick farm, the Boone County Farmers Market deserves a mention because it showcases the breadth of local agriculture. It operates from May through October, with peak season during the summer months.

Multiple family farms bring produce, baked goods, meat, and flowers to one location. For families who don’t have time for a full orchard trip, this market is the next best thing — plus, it allows you to meet and support many local growers at once.

Seasonal Calendar for Boone County Farms

Season	Fruits & Vegetables Available
Spring (April–June)	Strawberries, peas, asparagus, lettuce
Summer (July–August)	Blueberries, blackberries, peaches, sweet corn, tomatoes
Fall (September–October)	Apples, pears, pumpkins, squash, gourds, sunflowers
Winter (November–December)	Christmas trees, jams, preserves, winter greens

Tips for Planning the Perfect U-Pick Trip

Before You Go

• Check the farm’s website or social media for hours and availability.
• Bring your own containers or baskets (some farms provide, others don’t).
• Dress for comfort — closed-toe shoes and sun protection are essential.

While at the Farm

• Pick only ripe fruit — staff often provide guides on how to tell.
• Respect farm rules, especially in orchards with delicate trees.
• Take breaks! Many farms offer picnic areas or shaded seating.

After the Visit

• Store fruit properly to extend freshness. Apples can last weeks in the fridge, while berries should be eaten quickly.
• Try preserving: make jams, pies, or freeze extra fruit for later.

The Value of Agritourism in Boone County

U-pick farms aren’t just about fruit; they’re about community and economy. Agritourism supports farmers, creates jobs, and draws visitors from outside the county. By choosing to visit a Boone County farm, you’re helping keep family farming alive.

According to the USDA, agritourism revenue has grown steadily in the past decade as more families seek authentic rural experiences.

For official guidance, see the USDA Good Agricultural Practices & Handling Program, which sets food safety and quality standards for farms nationwide.

Challenges Farmers Face

Even the best farms face obstacles:

• Weather fluctuations can wipe out crops.
• Labor shortages affect harvest seasons.
• Pests and diseases require constant management.
• Market competition with large retailers pressures small farms.

Yet Boone County farmers have proven resilient, adapting with agritourism events, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes, and innovative farming methods.

Why Families Love U-Pick Experiences

• Educational Value – kids learn where food comes from.
• Health Benefits – fresh air, physical activity, and nutrient-rich produce.
• Memories – family photos in pumpkin patches or sunflower fields.
• Cost Savings – U-pick often costs less than grocery store produce.

Boone County’s farms and orchards are more than just places to pick fruit — they are living traditions, educational experiences, and cornerstones of community.

Whether you’re gathering strawberries in the spring, biting into a crisp apple in the fall, or enjoying a wagon ride with the kids, these farms offer something unique: a chance to connect with the land and the people who cultivate it.

The key to a successful trip is preparation: know your seasons, confirm farm hours, and come ready to enjoy the outdoors. Supporting Boone County farms not only fills your basket but also strengthens the local economy and preserves family farming for future generations.

So the next time you’re craving fresh produce or a fun family day out, skip the supermarket and head to one of Boone County’s top family farms or U-pick orchards. Your taste buds, your wallet, and your community will thank you.

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