Apple picking season is finally upon us, and we think families and adventurers alike should embrace this perfect fall activity. There’s something magical about visiting a U-pick apple orchard, where the crisp autumn air and the thrill of selecting the perfect apples combine to create unforgettable memories. For RVers, apple picking is a unique way to enjoy the scenic fall foliage and vibrant rural communities across America. Whether you’re parked for a weekend or on an extended fall RV trip, apple orchards provide a delightful stop. You’ll get to indulge in one of America’s favorite fruits, support local agriculture, and enjoy the outdoors. So, if you’re considering setting your RV’s GPS to an apple orchard for a fun fall road trip, let us provide some recommendations on where to go.
Understanding Apple Picking Season
When is the Season for Apple Picking?
Apple picking season typically begins in late August and can extend through October. The exact timing of the season can vary on geographic location and the variety of apples grown. In cooler northern regions, apple picking might start later and last into early fall, while in warmer southern areas, the season could begin earlier. U-pick apple orchards might have different types of apples maturing at different times throughout the entire apple-picking season. It’s a good idea to check with your local orchards to find the best time to visit. So, wherever you are, there’s likely a prime apple-picking opportunity waiting during the fall months, especially in September.
Why Apple Picking is Perfect for RVers
Apple picking is an excellent activity for RVers looking for a family-friendly excursion. This activity will allow your family to bond and enjoy nature in the crisp autumn air in a hands-on way. Orchards are often located in picturesque rural areas, giving RV travelers the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten paths and scenic landscapes. Plus, You’ll be supporting local farmers and the agricultural community. Visit one of these nearby orchards during your RV trip this fall to take full advantage of the apple-picking season.
RV-Friendly Locations For Picking Apples
Northeastern Apple picking season destinations
The Northeast bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors during the fall, offering an idyllic backdrop for RVers seeking picturesque landscapes and delicious harvests. Here’s where you can find some of the best U-pick apple orchards:
-
-
- Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, New York – Located in Lafayette, this historic orchard has been voted one of the country’s top places for apple picking. RVers can enjoy a variety of apple types, fresh cider, and even hard cider tastings. The scenic views of upstate New York’s rolling hills make it a perfect stop during the fall.
- Shelburne Orchards, Vermont – Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Orchards is known for its breathtaking autumnal scenery and a wide selection of apples. Visitors can pick their own apples, participate in pressing cider, and savor homemade doughnuts. It’s a charming spot for families and provides ample parking for RVs.
- Solebury Orchards, Pennsylvania – In the heart of Bucks County, Solebury Orchards offers a tranquil apple-picking season experience with a backdrop of beautiful woodlands. This orchard provides a variety of apples and a market with freshly made apple goods, perfect for stocking up your RV pantry. Their apple festival, held during peak season, features hayrides and live music.
-
Each location provides a unique apple-picking experience, embodying the essence of autumn in the Northeast. Whether you’re looking to fill your basket with apples or enjoy a day in the countryside, these spots are ideal. They are perfect for RVers trying to find out where to go apple-picking in the Northeastern United States.
Midwestern Apple Picking Season Destinations for RVers
-
-
- Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Robinette’s has been a Grand Rapids staple since 1911. It’s a must-visit for RVers during apple-picking season. This family-owned U-pick apple orchard features a variety of apples for picking directly from the trees. Beyond apple picking, you can enjoy a bakery famed for its apple cider donuts, a winery with tastings of cider and wine, and a corn maze. There’s also a farm market selling homemade goods and local produce. For those planning an RV trip to Grand Rapids in the fall, Robinette’s offers a full day of activities. Plus, the orchard is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of Michigan’s apple country.
- The Elegant Farmer, Mukwonago, Wisconsin: Known for its unique Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag, The Elegant Farmer offers a rich selection of apples, including the crisp Gala and tart Granny Smith. During the apple-picking season, visitors can pick apples, taste pies, and explore the local farm scene at the orchard.
- County Line Orchard, Hobart, Indiana: Situated just outside Chicago, County Line Orchard offers a vast array of apple varieties, including popular picks like Jonagold and Fuji. Guests can hop on a tractor ride around the orchard and through their corn maze. You can also indulge in the orchard’s famous homemade doughnuts—a treat that draws visitors from all around. These activities and the Midwest’s autumn colors provide a memorable day for RVers and their families in apple picking season.
-
These Midwestern U-pick apple orchards are perfect for a day filled with apple picking but also offer a slice of regional culture. If you’re in the midwest, you shouldn’t overlook these destinations in the autumn months.
Western Apple Picking Season Destinations for RVers
-
-
- BelleWood Acres, Washington
BelleWood Acres, situated near Bellingham in the picturesque Washington state, serves as a prime destination during the apple-picking season. As one of the state’s largest u-pick apple orchards, it has a wide array of apple varieties, including the much-loved Honeycrisp, alongside 22 other types of apples and pears. This U-pick apple orchard also has a local cider distillery and a gourmet farmers market. If you’re an RVer who loves cider and fresh fruits and vegetables while on the road, you should stop by and enjoy this farm’s events. You should also plan your visit around their Friday Night Farmtunes event with live music from Pacific Northwest bands that makes it a cultural hub as well. The scenic fall drive and other RV destinations in Washington make it easy for you to plan an entire trip through the state visit with destination and more. - Hood River Orchards, Oregon
Located in the renowned Hood River Valley, this orchard offers a rich experience during the fall with its vast selection of apples, including Pink Lady and Granny Smith. This U-pick apple orchard also has pears and pumpkins in the fall. RVers visiting Hood River Orchards can enjoy guided tours, cider tastings, and the festive atmosphere of its harvest festival. The orchard is also near Columbia River Gorge, a beloved hiking destination with a beautiful waterfall. - Apple Valley Orchards, California
Apple Valley Orchards in Julian is celebrated for its diverse apples, like Ginger Gold and Gala. This U-pick apple orchard also grows pears and plums and has Amish popcorn, jams, and jellies. Visitors can engage in pie-making classes, roam the charming country store, and enjoy the serene landscapes that Julian has to offer. For RV travelers, nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has stunning fall foliage and spots ideal for a restful stop on any RV adventure.
- BelleWood Acres, Washington
-
Recipes to Try During Apple Picking Season.
RVers can turn fresh picks from a U-pick apple orchard into delightful RV-friendly recipes that bring the taste of autumn right into the comfort of their RV. After picking your apples, you’ll want to keep them stored in a cool, dry, ventilated produce drawer or breathable bag. Storing apples properly ensures they stay fresh and crisp, ready to be used in a variety of recipes. Trying some of these apple RV camping recipes will allow you to enjoy the fruits of your apple-picking labor.
- Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal – Start your day with a warm bowl of oatmeal mixed with freshly diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting breakfast.
- Apple and Walnut Salad – Toss crisp apples with walnuts, mixed greens, and a vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing lunch.
- Caramel Apple Slices – Dip apple slices into caramel for a sweet and easy snack that’s both delicious and simple to prepare.
- Pork Chops with Apple Sauce – Serve grilled pork chops with a side of homemade apple sauce for a savory dinner that highlights the sweet and savory flavor pairing.
- Dutch Oven Apple Crisp – Conclude your day with this classic dessert, baking a mixture of sliced apples, cinnamon, and a crumbly topping right in your Dutch oven.
Making the Most of Your Apple Picking
Apple picking season is the perfect opportunity to combine the joys of RV travel with the delight of harvesting fresh fruit. The fall is a great time to visit a U-pick apple orchard and explore the scenic landscapes. This guide is tailored specifically for RV enthusiasts eager to embrace the fall season by venturing into orchards. These apple orchards not only have delicious apples, but also picturesque settings perfect for memorable fall adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the road, these apple-picking excursions are an excellent way to enjoy the crisp autumn air.
