10 Virginia Farms Still Offering Strawberry Picking Even as the Season Winds Down

The strawberry season in Virginia usually lasts until early June, so you’d better hurry!

We all know Virginia is known for its beautiful countryside. What better way to experience it up close than by spending some time picking your own strawberries at one of the commonwealth’s many u-pick farms. 

The strawberry season in Virginia usually starts in early May and lasts until early June. However, the exact timing of the season can vary depending on several factors. For example, the altitude of the farm can affect when the strawberries are ready for picking. Farms located at higher altitudes may have a later picking season than farms in the southern part of the state.

In terms of what to bring, consider:

• a basket or bag to hold your strawberries
• cash, as some farms don’t take credit cards
• a cooler with ice packs to keep them fresh on the ride home
• a picnic basket with snacks if you plan on spending some extra time on the farm, as some have picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy your lunch
• a camera to capture memories of your strawberry picking adventure.

Here are some strawberry picking farms throughout the state that are still offering u-pick opportunities as of this reporting. Remember: Supply is limited, so be sure to check out the farms’ Facebook pages or call ahead to confirm that they’re open. 

Northern Virginia

If you’re in NOVA, consider visiting Wegmeyer Farms in Loudoun County, which has multiple locations throughout the region. They offer a range of strawberries, including heirloom varieties, and host several events throughout the season, including “Twilight Picking” events that are perfect for a romantic night out. U-pick strawberry reservations are now open; the cost is $30 and includes your entire family/group. (The reservation fee covers your first $30 of strawberries.)

Another great option in Northern Virginia is Great Country Farms, located in Bluemont. In addition to strawberry picking, they have a variety of other activities, including a petting zoo and a giant jumping pillow. They also offer a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program for those interested in supporting local agriculture (A heads up that while this is likely the last week for strawberry picking, the folks at Great Country Farms have noted on social media that sweet cherries will be available for picking beginning Friday, June 2).

Come to Braehead Farm for berries, stay for the farm animals. According to the Fredericksburg farm’s website, strawberries are on the production decline, and will be available for picking until June 9 or so. Hurry: They’ve got five different types of varieties, and cost $4.99 per pound when you pick your own. 

Central Virginia

If you live near Lynchburg, head to Yoders’ Farm. The family-owned Rustburg farm offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own strawberries straight from the fields, ensuring the fruit is at the peak of freshness and flavor. After filling up your bucket, peruse the Farm Store for vine-ripened tomatoes, canned peaches, jams, and more.

While the juicy ripe strawberries are clearly the star of the show at Gallmeyer Farms in Richmond, the farm’s Wildflower Walk is a close second. The walk was created during the pandemic to, as a post on Facebook notes, “bring some brightness to folks who came to visit.”

Hampton Roads Region

Brookdale Farm is a small family farm in Chesapeake offering u-pick strawberries in the spring and pumpkins in the fall. This may potentially be the last weekend to go. If you bring a white bucket from a previous visit, one bucket of strawberry goodness costs $20; otherwise, get a new one to pick your harvest for $21.25.

Another great option is Mount Pleasant Farms. In addition to strawberry picking, they have a farm market with fresh produce and baked goods, as well as a “Barnyard Adventure” area with activities for children. According to their Facebook, the strawberry field is still closed, so check back regularly. 

Western Virginia Region

Located 30 minutes away from Tennessee, Mann Farms has been around for generations. While you can find their berries at some nearby Food City stores, the farm also grows other produce, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. They also carry canned goods and decorative items such as hanging baskets when available locally.

Southside Region

Motley’s Strawberry Farm is located right off the intersection of Highway 29 and Route 40 in Gretna. Make sure to check out their Facebook page in the evening for updates on whether they’re open the following day.

Bachelor Hall Farms in Danville is the only organic strawberry farm within a 100-mile radius. This local family farm and nursery has been around since 1996. For opening and picking times, call 434-685-7959.

READ MORE: 8 Indoor Food Halls in Northern Virginia To Try