The Best U-Pick Strawberry Patches Around North Georgia

There’s something so charming about picking your own strawberries. You grab a basket, head out into the sunshine, and suddenly the kids are much more interested in where their food comes from—especially when they get to eat a few berries along the way!

And here in Georgia, strawberry season arrives much earlier than many people realize. The local U-pick season typically runs from mid-April through early June, making spring and early summer a perfect time to plan a farm outing with family

and friends.

Of course, strawberry season is weather-dependent, and farm hours and availability can change quickly. Always check with the farm before you head out to make sure picking is open and berries are available.

Here are a few favorite destinations worth putting on your spring calendar.

Southern Belle Farm

Southern Belle Farm is probably best known for its fall activities, but spring is a wonderful time to visit, too. In addition to U-pick strawberries, families can enjoy plenty of activities for kids, including pedal carts, train rides, slides, and jumping pillows.

It’s the kind of place where “we’ll just pick strawberries and head home” can easily turn into an entire afternoon!

Washington Farms

Head to Bogart for a visit to Washington Farms. Along with strawberry picking, the farm offers family-friendly attractions including a petting zoo and homemade ice cream.

Because individual activities and operating schedules can vary throughout the season, check the farm’s website and social media before making the drive.

Warbington Farms

For families in the Cumming area, Warbington Farms is another fun option. Its Farm Fun Park and Barnyard offer plenty of opportunities to turn a simple strawberry-picking trip into a full day outside.

And let’s be honest: if you’re trying to create a family memory, spending a few hours outdoors usually beats another afternoon of everyone staring at a screen!

Mercier Orchards

If you’re dreaming of a day trip—or even a weekend getaway—why not head north to Blue Ridge and Mercier Orchards?

Mercier is a year-round treat, offering a wide array of U-pick crops that change with the seasons. Picking strawberries is just the beginning, and the farm store is another delightful stop, brimming with Georgia-grown goodies and homemade treats to bring home.

Combine your strawberry adventure with a delicious lunch and a bit of exploring around Blue Ridge, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic spring day!

Jaemor Farms

Located in Alto, Jaemor Farms is another beloved Georgia farm destination for strawberry enthusiasts. Their U-pick strawberries are a fun way to get outside and stock up for everything from strawberry shortcake to smoothies and homemade jam.

If you have little ones who are curious about where their food comes from, this is also a wonderful opportunity to make the outing educational without making it feel like a chore!

A Few Strawberry-Picking Tips

Before you visit the farm, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Pick bright red, plump berries. Strawberries don’t ripen after they’re picked, so look for fruit that’s already ripe.

• Handle them gently. Strawberries bruise easily, so don’t pile too many berries into your container.

• Leave a little stem attached. Keeping about a quarter-inch of stem can help reduce bruising and keep them fresher for longer.

• Don’t wash them right away. Wait until you’re ready to eat them. Excess moisture can cause strawberries to spoil faster.

• Refrigerate your berries. Freshly picked strawberries are best enjoyed within a few days.

• Freeze your extras. If you picked more than your family can eat—which is very easy to do!—wash, trim, dry, and freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag or container.

And here’s my favorite tip: don’t stress about filling the basket with every berry. Some of the best memories are made standing between the rows, soaking up the sunshine, and sneaking a strawberry or two before heading home.

So, grab the kids, invite a friend, and make it a day out. After all, spring in North Georgia is a fleeting thing, and so is strawberry season!