If you haven’t had a chance to take the kids berry picking yet, make sure to schedule some time this summer to start this family tradition. Few family outings combine fresh air, movement and sweet rewards like a fresh morning in the berry fields. Children of all ages love the treasure-hunt feeling of spotting ripe fruit, and many will surprise you with how determined they are to fill their own bucket.
The Pacific Northwest is one of the best berry-growing regions in the country. Throughout Oregon, blueberry, blackberry, marionberry and strawberry fields come to life every June through August, especially in the fertile Willamette Valley, where many farms allow families to wander through the rows and harvest the ripe fruit.
Why not plan a short trip across the Cascades to explore the many U-Pick farms in Oregon? Families will delight in turning berry picking into an annual summer adventure. Make a day of it, and don’t forget to capture the moment with some family photos!
Before You Go
- Check the farm’s website for current conditions and U-Pick hours.
- Many farms provide picking buckets but make sure to bring your own containers for taking berries home.
- Dogs are usually not allowed in the berry fields, so plan accordingly.
- Wear clothing that can get dirty and berry-stained, and don’t forget to wear appropriate footwear, as fields can be muddy.
- Go early in the day, as temperatures can be extreme and little ones will last longer before naptime. If possible, go during the week to avoid crowds.
- Bring water, snacks, sun hats and wipes for sticky fingers.
- Choose organic or no-spray operations whenever possible to limit your family’s exposure to harmful pesticides.
Family-friendly organic & no-spray U-Pick options in Oregon
Blueberries
Berkey’s Blueberries
32589 Berlin Road, Lebanon | 541 409-4558
info@berkeysblueberries.com
A certified organic, multi-generational, family-owned farm in the Willamette Valley, Berkey’s Blueberries grows more than five acres of blueberries with multiple varieties in season. Located along the South Santiam River, it’s a peaceful stop for families making a berry-picking day trip. Berry spreads and syrups are available, and they even make dog treats with blueberries!
Springbank Farm
32260 Berlin Road, Lebanon | 503-816-5529
Oregon Tilth Certified Organic blueberries are the focus here, with several varieties typically available from July through mid-August. Their farm is nestled in a triangle between the South Santiam River and Hamilton Creek in Lebanon. The 320-acre property features panoramic views, forests, trails and waterfront and particularly diverse bird life. Historic features on the farm include a 1912 timber-framed barn and a one-room schoolhouse. They also make blueberry wine!
Upriver Organics
44382 McKenzie Highway, Leaburg | 541-896-3928
UpriverOrganics@gmail.com
Located in the McKenzie River Valley, east of Eugene, Upriver Organics features six varieties of big juicy blueberries and all the tasting you can handle. They have a two-and-a-half-acre field that is solely dedicated to U-Pick blueberries. Their tall bushes provide shade and easy-to-reach berries, convenient for all ages. They welcome you to bring a blanket and picnic basket and enjoy the outdoor experience on the farm. U-Pick is available July through August.
Strawberries
Bella Organic
16205 NW Gillihan Road, Portland | 503-621-9545
Bella Organic is a 100-acre family-owned, certified organic farm located on Sauvie Island in Portland with the goal of promoting responsible, organic and sustainable farming practices. They grow over 70 varieties of berries, fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, vineyard grapes, herbs and nursery stock. They offer a large variety of organic products for the U-Pick market. They are a very busy destination, so plan to be surrounded by other families. U-Pick is available starting in late May for strawberries. They also offer U-Pick blueberries, blackberries and marionberries.
Raspberries
Johnson Farms
89733 Armitage Road, Eugene | 541-343-9594
One of the oldest farms in Lane County, located just outside Eugene, this no-spray farm features fresh seasonal produce, as well as jams, syrups and honey at its store. Their U-Pick raspberry field is ready for visitors starting in June with the season ending in July.
An educational, affordable family tradition
Berry picking is an easy, affordable outing that is both fun and educational for children. It offers a hands-on way to learn where food comes from while supporting local farms and agriculture. Back at home, kids can keep the experience going by washing and sorting the fruit, preparing berries for the freezer, blending smoothies, stirring jam or baking everyone’s favorite—pie!
This article appears in Bend Nest Summer 2026.
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