🍓 Where to Go Berry Picking This Summer + What to Make After
Nothing says summer like the sweet, sun-ripened joy of berry picking. Whether it’s strawberries in June, blueberries in July, or raspberries in August, heading out to a local farm is a fun (and delicious) way to spend time with family. Even better? You’ll head home with baskets full of fruit ready for easy, summery recipes. Here’s your go-to guide on where to pick, what to bring, and what to whip up once you're back in the kitchen. 🌞👩🌾🧺
🌾 Where to Go Berry Picking: How to Find a Local Farm
🗺️ Use These Tools:
PickYourOwn.org: Browse farms by state or province.
LocalHarvest.org: Great for organic or family-owned farms.
Search “berry picking near me” in Google Maps or Yelp for up-to-date reviews.
📍 Look for These Family-Friendly Features:
Pesticide-free or organic options 🍃
Shade tents or picnic tables 🌳
Kid activities like wagon rides or animal visits 🐐
Pre-picked options if you want to grab & go!
Pro tip: Call ahead! Berries ripen at different times and can sell out quickly on weekends.
🎒 What to Bring Berry Picking
Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen 🧢
Reusable containers or baskets (some farms charge for plastic) 🧺
Cash—many farms don’t accept cards 💵
Wet wipes or a water bottle for rinsing hands 🚰
Closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting dusty or muddy 👟
A cooler with ice packs for transporting berries home 🧊
🍓 What to Make with Fresh Berries
You’ve picked your bounty—now what? Here are some easy, crowd-pleasing recipes for all those sweet summer jewels.
1. Berry Chia Jam
Mash 2 cups of berries with 2 tbsp of chia seeds and 1–2 tbsp of honey. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, let cool, and refrigerate.
No canning needed! This fresh jam is perfect on toast, yogurt, or pancakes.
2. Summer Berry Crisp
Toss mixed berries with a little sugar and lemon juice. Top with oats, brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
Serve with vanilla ice cream for peak summer vibes.
3. Frozen Berry Yogurt Bites
Mix berries into Greek yogurt, spoon into silicone molds or mini muffin tins, and freeze. A cool, protein-packed snack kids love!
4. Strawberry Mint Lemonade
Blend fresh strawberries with lemon juice, mint, and a bit of honey. Strain and chill for a refreshing drink.
Add sparkling water for a fizzy twist!
5. Blueberry Pancakes (With a Twist)
Make your usual pancake mix, but swirl in fresh blueberries and a dash of lemon zest. Top with maple syrup and more berries.
🎁 Recommended Berry Must-Haves:
Berry Picking Baskets – Set of 4 – Reusable, breathable, and perfect for kids and adults.
NutriBullet Pro – High-Speed Blender – Great for smoothies, jams, and drinks with fresh fruit.
