There is something magical about letting kids pick their own fruit straight from the plant. It gets everyone outdoors, teaches where food comes from, and usually results in some pretty delicious snacks on the drive home (or in the field, as my children like to do).
If you're looking for U-pick adventures locally, here are the farms you'll want to visit this season.
🫐 Blueberry Hill Farms
Columbia, MO
Located just outside Columbia near the Columbia Regional Airport, Blueberry Hill Farms offers a beautiful U-pick blueberry experience right in Boone County. Families can reserve one hour picking appointments and spend time harvesting fresh blueberries straight from the bushes. It's an easy outing for young children and just long enough to hold their attention.
What you'll find:
- U-pick blueberries
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Convenient Columbia location
- Summer picking season
Be sure to check online and reserve your picking time, as they vary based on weather and availability.
🫐 Blue Shepherd Farm
Near Rocheport, MO
Located just west of Columbia near Rocheport, Blue Shepherd Farm specializes in U-pick organic blueberries. The farm uses organic growing practices and welcomes visitors by appointment when berries are ripe. With approximately 800 blueberry bushes, it's one of the area's most popular berry-picking destinations.
What you'll find:
- Organic blueberries
- U-pick appointments
- Scenic rural setting
- Summer harvest season
Mac Kid Tip: Pair your berry-picking trip with a stop in Rocheport for lunch or a walk on the Katy Trail.
🍓 Lloyd's Family Farm
Ashland, MO
Lloyd's Family Farm is one of Mid-Missouri's favorite family destinations. During the summer, they offer both strawberry and blackberry picking, and later in the year they transform into a full fall festival destination with pumpkins, corn mazes, hayrides, and more. Harvest dates and hours vary based on crop conditions, so it's best to check their social media or call ahead before visiting.
What you'll find:
- U-pick strawberries
- U-pick blackberries
- Family activities
- Fall pumpkin patch and festivals
Perfect for: Families looking to make a full day of farm fun.
🎃 Seasonal Pumpkin Picking
While berries dominate the summer months, fall brings pumpkin-picking opportunities throughout the area. Lloyd's Family Farm offers pumpkin harvest activities each autumn, making it a great destination for fall family photos and Halloween preparations.
When to Pick What
| Crop | Typical Season |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | Late May to June |
| Blueberries | June to July |
| Blackberries | July to August |
| Pumpkins | September to October |
Weather can shift harvest dates by a week or two each year, so always check farm websites or social media before heading out.
Before You Go
✅ Wear closed-toe shoes
✅ Bring sunscreen and water
✅ Expect some mud after rain
✅ Bring cash or cards (check individual farm policies)
✅ Bring containers if requested by the farm, or call ahead to ask
✅ Call ahead or check social media for crop availability
Make It a Family Tradition
U-pick farms offer one of the simplest ways to make lasting family memories. The kids get fresh air, parents get fresh produce, and everyone goes home happy. My family has made blueberry picking an annual and memorable tradition, and I hope yours will too.
Have a favorite local U-pick farm we missed? Let us know and we'll add it to our growing Mid-Missouri farm guide! 🍓🫐🚜🌻
