Berry Picking in Kansas City

Berry picking is one of the sweetest ways to enjoy the outdoors with your family. Whether you’re hunting for juicy strawberries in late spring or filling buckets with blueberries and blackberries in summer, Kansas and Missouri offer plenty of pick-your-own farms worth the trip. Here’s everything you need to know—from timing your visit to making the most of your day in the fields.

When Is Berry Picking Season?

Berry seasons vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions, so it’s always smart to double-check before heading out.

• Strawberries: May to early June
• Blueberries: June to July
• Blackberries: July to August

Many farms update their availability daily through websites, social media, or voicemail recordings. Some even require reservations, especially during peak weekends, so planning ahead is key.

Berry Picking Tips

Picking season varies depending on weather and type of berry. Many farms make it easy to stay informed with email newsletters you can subscribe to for updates. You can also check for updated information about picking hours on either their Facebook page, website, or voicemail, whichever method they use to post daily updates. And always check again right before you leave the house, in case they are picked out (this can happen especially on weekends and really nice days). Some farms require you reserve a picking time, so make sure you do that before you drive out.

Come Prepared

Wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and rain boots or old shoes if it has rained at all the last couple of days. For summer berry picking, you’ll probably want to wear bug spray, too. Consider an evening slot when it is cooler and often less crowded. Bring cash or your checkbook as many places do not accept other forms of payment. While the walk from the parking lot to the field can be long depending on the size of the farm and which field is open, keep in mind that strollers and most wagons are not recommended due to the terrain. And, of course, use the bathroom before you leave the house!

We love reading the books Blueberries for Sal and Jamberry to our kids—they are a great tie-in to berry picking!

Strawberries: May/Early June

Kansas

• Gieringers in Edgerton, Kan.: You do have to purchase a “field picking pass” at Gierengers to access their fields and children’s play area. TMake sure you buy a fresh strawberry or blueberry donut while you are there! Check their website for availability.

Missouri

• Fun Farm in Kearney, Mo.
• Weston Orchard and Vineyard in Weston, Mo. offers strawberry donuts and cider slushies to enjoy when you visit.

Blueberries: June/July

Kansas:

• Gieringers in Edgerton, Kan.: Field picking pass required for everyone 2 and older.
• Oregon Trail Farm in Leavenworth, Kan.
• Wohletz Farm Fresh just east of Lawrence, Kan. Blueberry picking is by invitation only, so make sure you get on their email list!

Missouri:

• Bockelman Berries in Peculiar, Mo.
• Colonial Gardens in Blue Springs, Mo.
• Nan’s Berry Farm in Smithville, Mo.
• Schweizer Orchards in St. Joseph, Mo.
• The Berry Patch in Cleveland, Mo. This is where we typically go. Their farm is HUGE with many patches that ripen at different times. We always grab something from their bakery display when we check out, and their barrel train is fun for kids to ride.

Blackberries: July/August

Kansas:

• Gieringers in Edgerton, Kan,. $3 field picking pass required for everyone 2 and older.
• Happy Valley Farm in DeSoto, Kan.—by appointment only
• Oregon Trail Farm in Leavenworth, Kan.

Missouri:

• Bockelman Berries in Peculiar, Mo.—Some of their bushes are thornless, great for picking with kids!
• Colonial Gardens in Blue Springs, Mo.
• Nan’s Berry Farm in Smithville, Mo.
• The Berry Patch in Cleveland, Mo.
• Tubby Fruits in Belton, Mo.
• Weston Orchard and Vineyard in Weston, Mo.

Make It a Summer Tradition

Berry picking isn’t just about the fruit—it’s about slowing down, getting your hands dirty, and creating memories with family and friends. Many farms also offer extras like bakeries, play areas, and seasonal treats that make the outing even more special.

So grab your buckets, plan ahead, and enjoy one of the most delicious outdoor activities Kansas and Missouri have to offer.