Unforgettable Pumpkin Picking Experiences at NJ Pumpkin Farms (2025 Edition)
Pumpkin picking in New Jersey is more than just a seasonal activity—it’s an opportunity to embrace the fall season with family, enjoy the crisp outdoor air, and create cherished memories. These farms are celebrated for their welcoming environment, classic fall activities, and picturesque landscapes that invite visitors back year after year.
Nestled among scenic fields and just a short drive from the city, the pumpkin farms near you offer a perfect fall outing. Beyond selecting pumpkins, guests can enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and fresh baked goods like apple cider donuts that add extra delight to the experience. Many farms have been family-run for generations, giving you a warm, homey feeling from the moment you arrive.
Thanks to New Jersey’s fertile farmland, the pumpkins available are always fresh and vibrant—ideal for carving or decorating. Whether you’re after a small pumpkin for your desk or the biggest one to carry home, there’s a wide variety to choose from, and at some locations, you can even harvest your pumpkin right from the vine.
What truly sets these New Jersey farms apart is the strong sense of connection—to the land, those who cultivate it, and everyone partaking in this timeless ritual. This is what makes pumpkin picking such a cherished fall tradition and one of the most beloved fall traditions in the region.
Top Farms in New Jersey for Pumpkin Picking (2025)
Looking for the best u-pick experiences this fall? New Jersey offers a variety of farm locations perfect for family fun, featuring pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides. Whether you're after a relaxing day outdoors or a lively fall festival, these farms provide plenty of activities to enjoy.
Northern New Jersey Farms and Fall Activities
Alstede Farms
84 Route 513 (old Route 24), 1 Chesterfield Dr., Chester, NJ
Starting mid-September through early November, the farm offers wagon rides, kids' activities such as bounce houses and pony rides, plus a large corn maze and picnic areas. Located conveniently in Warren County near Washington, it’s a perfect spot to explore a vibrant pumpkin patch.
Conklin Farm U-Pick
65 River Rd, Montville, NJ
From the third week of September, enjoy hayrides, farm animals, and two corn mazes. Note the haunted hayride is geared for older kids. This location provides excellent options for fall family fun.
Demarest Farm
244 Werimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ
Opening the third weekend of September, Demarest offers scenic hayrides, face painting, picnic spots, and a kid-friendly corn maze, making it a great choice for family outings.
Donaldson Farms
358 Allen Road, Hackettstown, NJ (Warren County)
Weekend hayrides transport visitors to the pumpkin patch, while weekdays encourage a leisurely stroll with a wheelbarrow to handpick pumpkins from the vine.
Fairfield Farms
177 Big Piece Rd., Fairfield, NJ
Kick off fall fun late September with a 5-acre corn maze designed for all ages, hayrides, play areas, and a petting zoo open on select weekends including Columbus Day.
Farms View
945 Black Oak Ridge Road, Wayne, NJ
Offering u-pick pumpkins from late September through October, this farm features an abundant selection of giant pumpkins, or you can choose from pre-picked options close to the market.
Great Pumpkin Festival at Heaven Hill Farm
Rt. 94N, Vernon, NJ
Running September 14 to November 3, 2025, this fall festival includes gemstone mining, a themed corn maze, hayrides, over 35 family-oriented activities, live performances, carnival rides, apple cider donuts, and animal encounters.
The Pumpkin Patch Trains
Whippany Railway Museum, 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ
Enjoy a scenic ten-mile train ride followed by a visit to the pumpkin patch, where children receive a free pumpkin and decorating kit. Don’t forget your costume for extra festive fun.
Hillview Farms
223 Meyersville Road, Gillette, NJ
A family-run operation since 1865, offering tractor rides out to the pumpkin patch for a peaceful day in the countryside.
Middle Valley Farms
304-b Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, NJ
This farm offers pumpkin picking, a corn maze, hayrides, and picnic areas for a full fall day of activities.
Ort Farms
25 Bartley Road, Long Valley, NJ (Washington Township)
Starting mid-September, enjoy not only pumpkin picking but also train rides, hayrides, a corn maze, pony rides, a petting zoo, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
Riamede Farm
122 Oakdale Road, Chester, NJ
Beginning late September, visitors can pick pumpkins straight from the vine, savor fresh apple cider, and bring home gourds and Indian corn, all in an authentic farm atmosphere in Chester, NJ.
Secor Farms
85 Airmont Ave, Mahwah, NJ
Opening the third weekend of September, Secor Farms offers two corn mazes suited for all ages, hayrides, picnic spaces, and a petting zoo—ideal for a family-friendly fall outing.
Snyders Farm – Fall Festival
586 South Middlebush Road, Somerset, NJ
Hosting a lively fall festival with pumpkin picking on weekends from late September through October, this farm market features numerous family activities and festive events.
Stony Hill Farm Market & Gardens
15 North Road 8 Route 24, Chester, NJ
Open on weekends, this farm market has a Maze Fun Park and games geared toward kids, making it an excellent destination for family fall fun.
Sun High Orchard
19 Canfield Avenue, Randolph, NJ
Known for its kid’s activities including a corn pit, rope and tile mazes, and animal encounters, this orchard also offers pumpkin and apple picking—call ahead for the latest picking times.
Tree-Licious Orchards
135 Karrville Road, Port Murray, NJ
Spanning 130 acres and boasting 200 years of history, this farm provides pumpkin and apple picking, private tours, and seasonal fall festivities.
Central New Jersey Farms with Fall Activities
Battleview Orchards
91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ (Middlesex County)
Open mid-September through October, offering weekend hayrides and a scenic farm market ideal for pumpkin patch visits and family fun.
Bullock Farms
83 Emleys Hill Road, Cream Ridge, NJ
Hop on a 25-minute hayride to the pumpkin patch and pick from a variety of pumpkins and gourds in the field, with wagons running throughout the day.
Giamarese Farm
155 Fresh Pond Rd., East Brunswick, NJ
Starting late September, enjoy a corn maze, hayrides, pony rides, and farm animal interactions—all great activities for a family fall outing.
Hillsboro Farm
219 Hillsborough Rd, Hillsborough, NJ
From the last weekend in September, take part in pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, a corn maze, playground fun, and face painting for an engaging day of kid’s activities.
K & S Farms - Field of Terror
831 Windsor Perrineville Road, East Windsor, NJ
By day, enjoy pumpkin picking and a corn maze; by night, experience spooky attractions perfect for teens and adults.
Lee Turkey Farm
201 Hickory Corner Rd., East Windsor, NJ
Open daily from summer through fall, pick a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables including pumpkins.
Norz-Hill Farm & Market
116 South Branch Road, Hillsborough, NJ
Starting the third weekend of September, choose from over 75 pumpkin varieties, enjoy hayrides, pony rides, and partake in evening fall events designed for teens and adults.
Terhune Orchards
330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ
Offering weekend family fun from mid-September through October, Terhune has pumpkin and apple picking, a corn maze, pony rides, live music, and fresh local food.
Von Thun Farms
519 Ridge Rd. (Rt. 522), Monmouth Junction, NJ (South Brunswick)
Daily pumpkin picking is available, with weekend activities including hayrides, a corn maze, moon bounce, and pumpkin bowling that add excitement to your visit.
Southern New Jersey Farms for Fall Family Fun
Argos Farm
1250 Lacey Rd, Forked River, NJ
Late September through October offers hayrides, a corn maze, pig and duck races, and a big hay slide that kids will love.
Duffield's Farm
280 Chapel Heights Road, Sewell, NJ
From mid-September to Halloween, Saturdays mean corn maze adventures, a play yard, apple cider treats, and animal feeding for a memorable fall festival experience.
Indian Acres Tree Farms
Tuckerton Road, Medford, NJ
Open weekends in September and October, this location combines pumpkin picking with bounce houses, wagon rides, rock climbing, live music, pony rides, and face painting.
Johnson's Corner Farm
133 Church Rd., Medford, NJ
Starting early September, enjoy a lively fall festival featuring hayrides, corn stalk mazes, moon bounce, and various family activities alongside pumpkin and apple picking.
Rea's Farm Market
400 Stevens St., West Cape May, NJ
Open daily from the first weekend of October, this farm market offers an ample pumpkin patch and hayrides to round out your fall visit.
Planning a family trip this season? Whether you’re searching for “farms near me for pumpkin picking” or looking to enjoy autumn festivities, these New Jersey farms provide the perfect combination of pumpkins, apple picking, corn mazes, and hayrides for fall fun that everyone will treasure. Save this guide for the 2025 season and start new family traditions today.
Key Takeways
- New Jersey's 2025 pumpkin season runs mid-September to early November.
- Kid-friendly farms statewide offer u-pick pumpkins, hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, festivals, and apple cider donuts.
- Many are family-run, some offer from-the-vine picking and train rides.
- Pick a region, then plan weekend or daily visits.
Pumpkin Picking in New Jersey: FAQ
When does pumpkin season run in New Jersey?
Mid September through October, with peak picking in October. Some farms stay open into early November if fields still have pumpkins.
Do I need tickets or reservations?
Often, yes. Popular spots like Alstede Farms, Demarest Farms, and Wightman Farms sell timed tickets on fall weekends. Weekdays are usually walk-in friendly. Always check the farm’s site before you go.
Which farms are local favorites for pumpkin picking?
Reliable picks include Alstede Farms (Chester), Stony Hill Farms (Chester), Ort Farms (Long Valley), Secor Farms (Mahwah), Demarest Farms (Hillsdale), Johnson’s Corner Farm (Medford), Heaven Hill Farm (Vernon), Happy Day Farm (Manalapan), Riamede Farm (Chester), and Wightman Farms (Morristown).
What else can I do besides picking pumpkins?
Most farms offer hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, cider and doughnuts, farm stands, and play areas. Weekend festivals often add live music and food trucks.
How much does it cost?
Pricing varies. Many charge admission for hayrides or festival activities, then you pay by the pound for pumpkins. Expect higher prices on weekends and special event days.
What’s the best time to go to avoid crowds?
Arrive right at opening, especially on October weekends. Weekdays and early season dates offer smaller crowds and easier parking.
Are there cash-only farms?
Some stands or wagon rides still prefer cash. Bring a card and some cash to cover both.
What should I wear and bring?
Closed-toe shoes or boots, since fields can be muddy. Dress in layers, bring water, sunscreen, hand wipes, and a small wagon if you plan to pick big pumpkins.
Are strollers and wagons allowed in the fields?
Usually yes, but fields can be bumpy. A sturdy wagon is often easier than a stroller.
Are dogs allowed?
Policies vary. Many farms do not allow pets in fields or markets. Service animals are generally allowed. Check the farm’s rules before you go.
What happens if it rains?
Some farms remain open in light rain, others pause hayrides or close fields for safety. Check day-of updates on the farm’s website or social pages.
Do farms near Jersey City or NYC offer easy access?
Yes. Demarest Farms and Secor Farms are popular Bergen County options. Alstede Farms, Stony Hill Farms, and Wightman Farms are reasonable drives from Hudson County.
Do I need to bring my own cutting tools?
No. Farms provide cutters or pre-cut pumpkins. For safety, outside tools are usually not allowed.
What pumpkin varieties can I expect?
You’ll find carving pumpkins, pie pumpkins, white pumpkins, mini pumpkins, and gourds. Availability changes through the season.
Is parking free?
Most farms offer free on-site parking. Overflow lots may open on peak days. Arrive early to park closer to the entrance.
Are the farms accessible?
Accessibility varies. Main grounds and markets are often accessible, although fields are uneven. Call ahead for wheelchair access details and hayride accommodations.
Can I take photos or book photo sessions?
Personal photos are welcome at most farms. Professional shoots may require permission or a fee. Contact the farm in advance if you’re hiring a photographer.
Can I bring outside food?
Some farms allow snacks and water. Many sell cider, doughnuts, and hot food during festivals. Check rules if you plan a picnic.
Any tips for picking a good pumpkin?
Choose one with a firm stem, no soft spots, and a flat base. Store it in a cool, dry place, not on concrete. Don’t carry it by the stem.
Which farms offer big festival vibes?
Alstede Farms, Heaven Hill Farm, Wightman Farms, and Ort Farms often run large fall festivals with hayrides, mazes, and live entertainment. Check schedules for exact dates and activities.
