I returned from the farmers market last weekend with a down payment’s worth of peaches and hands sticky from samples. That’s when I know peach season is in full swing. If you’re looking to go a little farther afield than your local market, these farms are all picking peaches through the end of August.
Homestead Farms - Poolsville, MD (50-minute drive)
This is the closest farm to D.C. and has everything you need for a fun day in the country. Pick to your heart's content, then pet the baby goats and grab some jam at the farm’s market. Be sure to check their site as they don’t allow picking as certain peach varieties are ripening. ($3 admission, $1.99 per pound)
Larriland Farm - Woodbine MD (1-hour drive)
This farm has 16 varieties of peaches, with both white and yellow freestone varieties available right now. Besides picking peaches, you can also pick your own tomatoes, beets, berries, sunflowers, and more. (Free admission, pay by the container)
Hollin Farms - Delaplane VA (1-hour drive)
A traditional family farm that’s surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, this low-key farm lets you mix and match peaches, plums, and apricots in one box. (Free admission, $25 per peck)
Great Country Farms - Bluemont, VA (1-hour 10-minute drive)
A little farther out, but worth the drive. This farm is huge with a 12-acre play area, market, wagon rides, and animals. Go for the peach fuzztival in August! ($10 - $12 admission, $1.99 per pound)
Baugher’s Farm - Westminster MD, (1-hour 30-minute drive)
Wagon rides and porta-potties in the field make this a great option for little ones. Do NOT skip the peach pie in the bakery or the petting zoo on the way out.