Peach Picking in New Jersey: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Farms and Tips for a Sweet Summer

New Jersey, often celebrated for its iconic beaches and vibrant cities, also boasts a rich agricultural heritage. Known as the Garden State, New Jersey is the fourth largest producer of peaches in the United States. From early July to mid-September, the state’s orchards are ripe for peach picking, offering a fun and educational activity for families, friends, and fruit enthusiasts. Let’s explore some of the best places to pick peaches in New Jersey and share some tips to make your experience unforgettable.

Top Peach Picking Farms in New Jersey

1. Stoneyfield Orchard, Belvidere

Stoneyfield Orchard is a charming spot for peach picking, usually available in July and August. They offer a variety of other fruits and vegetables as well.

Season: July - August

Location: 5 Orchard Street, Belvidere, NJ 07823

Website: Stoneyfield Orchard

2. Melick’s Town Farm, Califon

Melick’s Town Farm in Califon offers a delightful peach-picking experience. They are one of the largest fruit growers in New Jersey, with multiple locations.

Season: July - August

Location: 472 County Road 513, Califon, NJ 07830

Website: Melick’s Town Farm

3. Alstede Farms, Chester

Alstede Farms is a popular destination for peach picking and other activities. Their farm market and bakery are also worth a visit.

Season: July - September

Location: 1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester, NJ 07930

Website: Alstede Farms

4. Strawberry Hill Farm, Chesterfield

Strawberry Hill Farm is a quaint farm offering peach picking starting in mid-July. They also provide a variety of other fruits throughout the season.

Season: July

Location: 3 Waln Road, Chesterfield, NJ 08515

Website: Strawberry Hill Farm

5. Eastmont Orchards, Colts Neck

Eastmont Orchards provides a family-friendly environment for peach picking. They offer a variety of fruits throughout the season.

Season: July - September

Location: 181 County Road 537 East, Colts Neck, NJ 07722

Website: Eastmont Orchards

6. Lee Turkey Farm, East Windsor

Lee Turkey Farm is not only known for its turkeys but also for its excellent peach-picking opportunities.

Season: July

Location: 201 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor, NJ 08520

Website: Lee Turkey Farm

7. Battleview Orchards, Freehold

Battleview Orchards is a family-owned and operated farm with a variety of pick-your-own fruits, including peaches.

Season: July - September

Location: 91 Wemrock Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

Website: Battleview Orchards

8. Hillview Farms, Gillette

Hillview Farms provides a great peach-picking experience in August. They also offer a variety of other fruits and vegetables throughout the season.

Season: August

Location: 223 Meyersville Road, Gillette, NJ 07933

Website: Hillview Farms

9. Demarest Farms, Hillsdale

Demarest Farms is a well-known spot for peach picking, offering a range of family activities and seasonal events.

Season: July

Location: 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ 07642

Website: Demarest Farms

10. Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm, Jobstown

Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm offers peach picking from early July to mid-August. They provide a delightful farm experience with a variety of activities.

Season: July - August

Location: 2691 Monmouth Road, Jobstown, NJ 08041

Website: Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm

11. Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford

Johnson’s Corner Farm is a beloved destination for peach picking and other family activities.

Season: July - August

Location: 133 Church Road, Medford, NJ 08055

Website: Johnson’s Corner Farm

12. Phillips Farms, Milford

Phillips Farms offers a scenic setting for peach picking, along with a variety of other fruits and vegetables.

Season: July

Location: 91 Crab Apple Hill Road, Milford, NJ 08848

Website: Phillips Farms

13. Wightman Farms, Morristown

Wightman Farms is a popular spot for pick-your-own fruits, including peaches, and offers a range of family-friendly activities.

Season: July

Location: 1111 Mount Kemble Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960

Website: Wightman Farms

14. Mood’s Farm Market, Mullica Hill

Mood’s Farm Market is a charming farm where you can pick your own peaches and enjoy their farm market and homemade preserves.

Season: July - September

Location: 901 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062

Website: Mood’s Farm Market

15. VonThun Farms, Washington

VonThun Farms in Washington provides an excellent peach-picking experience from mid-July to August. They also have a farm market and seasonal events.

Season: July - August

Location: 438 Route 57 West, Washington, NJ 07882

Website: VonThun Farms Washington

Tips for a Successful Peach Picking Adventure

Timing is Everything

Peach picking season in New Jersey runs from early July to mid-September. The best time to pick peaches is in July and August when the fruit is at its peak. Always check the farm’s website or call ahead to confirm the availability of peaches.

Picking the Perfect Peach

A ripe peach will separate easily from the branch. Look for peaches with a creamy or golden undertone and a fragrant aroma. Avoid peaches that are hard to pull off the tree or have green undertones, as they are not fully ripe.

Handle with Care

Peaches are delicate, so handle them gently to avoid bruising. Use the sides of your fingers rather than your fingertips to pick the fruit, and place them gently into your basket.

Storage and Use

Store ripe peaches in the refrigerator and use them within a few days for the best flavor. If you want to soften firm peaches, place them in a loosely closed paper bag at room temperature for a day or two. Remember, peaches do not ripen further once picked; they only soften.

Plan Your Visit

Many farms offer additional activities such as hayrides, petting zoos, and farm stores. Check the farm’s website for any special events or activities that you can enjoy during your visit.

Peach picking in New Jersey is more than just a fun activity; it’s a way to connect with nature, support local agriculture, and enjoy some of the freshest fruit available. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a romantic day trip, or a solo adventure, the peach orchards of New Jersey provide a perfect backdrop for making summer memories.