July is prime blueberry-picking season, and Central Pennsylvania has several excellent blueberry farms to take your fruit-loving family berry picking. Going blueberry picking is not just about getting sweet, delicious fruit - it’s an experience that combines nature, family fun, and the satisfaction of harvesting your own food. Here are some of the best places in Central PA to indulge in this delightful activity.
1. Mt. Airy Orchards
Located in Dillsburg, Mt. Airy Orchards is a family-owned farm that has been a favorite destination for berry picking for decades. From early July to late August, your family can collect and purchase blueberries by the pound. And for every 5 pounds you pick, they’ll give you a coupon for $1 off a treat from their lunch deck! They even have buckets you can use, so you don’t have to bring your own. The farm also features Karen’s Kitchen, where you can enjoy homemade pulled-pork BBQ, soups, fresh fruit milkshakes, and donuts.
2. Strites’ Orchard
Just a short drive from Harrisburg, Strites’ Orchard in Middletown is another excellent location for blueberry picking. It offers generous seasonal hours where you can pick and buy blueberries by the pound. On weekdays, be sure to check in at the market first to grab a container (and also check out their bakery and other products), but on weekends, feel free to head straight to the U-Pick area and start picking!
3. Boyer Nurseries & Orchards
Boyer Nurseries & Orchards is located in Biglerville and has been a family-owned and operated business since 1900. In addition to their fruit market, they also house a garden nursery and wine cellar. For blueberry picking, their harvest dates run from June 22 through July 15, and they offer weekday and weekend hours. They charge by the pound and provide you with a complimentary heavy-duty plastic bag or bucket for picking.
4. Hollabaugh Bros. Inc.
Also located in Biglerville, the Hollabaugh families have been growing fruit for over six and a half decades and offer fruit and flower-picking fun for the whole family. Their blueberry picking season starts around the beginning of July. Be sure to visit their website for information on their annual Blueberry Festival, where you can not only pick your own blueberries, but also enjoy live music, wagon rides, and homemade blueberry ice cream.
Tips for a Successful Blueberry Picking Trip
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Timing: Blueberries are typically in season from mid-June to early August. Check the farm’s website or Facebook page or call ahead to ensure availability.
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Equipment: Bring containers for your berries if the farm doesn’t offer any, put on some sunscreen, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for farm conditions.
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Etiquette: Follow the farm’s guidelines for picking to ensure the plants are treated with care and the environment remains pristine for future visitors.
Central PA’s blueberry farms offer more than just berries – they provide a wholesome and enjoyable experience for the whole family. For more blueberry picking locations around Pennsylvania, check out U-Pick Farms USA and pickyourown.org, where you can find farms that let you pick your own fruit, produce, and flowers listed by county. And for more fun ways to spend time with your family this summer, check out our Resource Center.
