The Ultimate Guide to Apple Picking: Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Fall Outing
If there's one trademark of autumn, it's apple picking. As the weather cools and leaves begin to change, orchards open their gates, inviting visitors to gather crisp, juicy apples straight from the tree. Whether it's your first time or an annual tradition, this guide will help you plan the perfect apple picking trip filled with fun, flavor, and fall vibes.
When Is Apple Picking Season?
Apple picking season typically starts in early September and runs through late October, though timing can vary depending on your location and local climate.
For the best experience:
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Visit early in the season (September) to avoid crowds and enjoy prime apple quality.
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Remember that apple varieties ripen at different times:
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Honeycrisp apples ripen early
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Golden Delicious and Red Delicious follow
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Fuji and Granny Smith are usually ready by October
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Tip: Always call ahead or check the orchard's website for their apple variety schedule so you know what's in season.
Plan your trip and make it a fall weekend getaway — check out our fall camping destinations for cozy cabins and RV sites near top orchards.
Where to Go Apple Picking
Apple orchards can be found in nearly every U.S. state, making this a fun and accessible fall family activity. Some top apple-picking destinations include:
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Michigan – Renowned for apple picking in the Midwest
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Washington – Known for exceptional apple orchards on the West Coast
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Massachusetts, Maine, New York, and Virginia – Classic New England and Mid-Atlantic apple picking destinations
Use resources like Pick Your Own to search for apple orchards near you.
Stay close to the orchard — explore our Michigan RV resorts and campgrounds or New York campgrounds for the perfect fall weekend.
Pro Tip: Smaller, family-run farms often offer the freshest fruit and a more authentic experience than large, touristy orchards.
Where to Go Apple Picking
Fun fact: almost every state in the U.S. has apple orchards! You can search for local orchards or visit Pick Your Own for a comprehensive directory.
While nearly every state has apple orchards, some areas stand out:
- Michigan is renowned for apple picking in the Midwest.
- Washington boasts a high number of exceptional apple orchards on the West Coast.
- Don't overlook New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions, where states like Massachusetts, Maine, New York, and Virginia offer fantastic apple picking experiences.
Remember, the best apples may not always be found at the most commercialized orchards. While tourist-friendly orchards provide plenty of activities, smaller family-owned farms often yield the best fruit.
What to Do With Your Apples
One of the joys of apple picking is enjoying your harvest at home. If you find yourself with a surplus, try making:
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Fresh apple cider
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Homemade applesauce
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Apple pies, crisps, or cobblers
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Dehydrated apple chips for snacks
Check out our post on five delicious apple recipes to make the most of your fall bounty.
Check out our five easy apple recipes to make the most of your fall bounty.
Plan Your Apple Picking Adventure
As autumn sets in, it's the perfect time to plan your apple picking outing. Whether you're visiting a local orchard or staying at one of our resorts across the U.S. and Canada, there's an orchard waiting for you.
Grab your favorite flannel, pack your camera, and get ready to make memories — and maybe a few pies!
Explore Sun Outdoors resorts near you to start planning your cozy fall getaway.
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