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The Ultimate 2026 Guide: 4 Must-Visit Apple Picking Orchards Near Richmond, VA

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Richmond, Virginia, transforms into a hub for fall enthusiasts every year, drawing families and friends to the rolling hills and picturesque orchards just a short drive from the city. As of December 2025, while the 2026 season's exact opening dates are still being finalized by local farmers, now is the perfect time to plan your itinerary for the next great harvest. Virginia’s apple season typically runs from late July/August through early November, with the prime picking time for favorite varieties like Honeycrisp and Fuji usually hitting in late September and October. To ensure you have the freshest, most up-to-date information, it is essential to check the respective orchard’s website or social media before you visit.

This comprehensive guide details the top U-Pick apple orchards near the RVA area, focusing on what makes each one unique, the must-try treats, and the best time to visit to secure your bushel of fresh, crisp apples for baking, cider, or snacking. These locations offer much more than just fruit; they provide a full-fledged fall experience complete with festivals, corn mazes, and, of course, the legendary Virginia apple cider donuts.

The Best Time to Go Apple Picking Near Richmond and What to Look For

Understanding the Virginia apple harvest schedule is the key to a successful U-Pick trip. The season is long, but different apple varieties ripen at different times. Knowing when to go ensures you are picking your favorite type at its peak crispness and flavor.

Virginia Apple Picking Season by Variety (Typical Schedule):

  • Early Season (Late July – Early September): This period often sees the arrival of early-ripening varieties like Gala and Ginger Gold. These are fantastic for fresh eating and quick baking.
  • Mid-Season (Mid-September – Early October): This is the peak window for the most sought-after apples, including the famously crisp Honeycrisp and the tart-sweet Jonagold. Expect the largest crowds during this time, especially on weekends.
  • Late Season (Mid-October – Early November): The season winds down with excellent late-harvest apples like Fuji, Pink Lady, and the historic Albemarle Pippin. These varieties are great for long-term storage and baking.

Pro Tip: Always call ahead or check the orchard’s “Pick-Your-Own” status online. Availability can change daily based on weather, crop yield, and visitor volume.

Top 4 U-Pick Apple Orchards and Fall Destinations Near RVA

While some of the most famous orchards require a bit of a drive towards Charlottesville or the Blue Ridge Mountains, the experience is well worth the trip. Each destination listed below offers a unique flavor of the Virginia fall experience.

1. Carter Mountain Orchard (Charlottesville, VA)

Widely considered the quintessential Virginia orchard experience, Carter Mountain is a must-visit, though it requires about an hour and a half drive from Richmond. It is known not just for its fruit, but for its breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Charlottesville area.

  • What Makes It Unique: The stunning mountain views are unparalleled. The orchard also features a popular farm shop, a bakery famous for its treats, and a wine shop offering Carter Mountain Wine.
  • Must-Try Treats: Their hot, fresh apple cider donuts are legendary and a highlight of any visit. Be prepared for a line, but they are worth the wait.
  • Key Apple Varieties: They grow approximately 15 different types, including Albemarle Pippin, Jonagold, and Pink Lady.
  • Visitor Tip: To avoid the largest crowds, try to visit on a weekday. Weekends are notoriously busy.

2. Chiles Peach Orchard (Crozet, VA)

Part of the Chiles Family Orchards, this location is a favorite for those who want a full farm experience that extends beyond just apples. Located in Crozet, it's a slightly shorter drive than Charlottesville proper and is open for most of the year.

  • What Makes It Unique: While famous for its peaches in the summer, Chiles offers PYO apples in the fall and is a great stop for a variety of treats. The Farm Market and Bakery offer ice cream, fudge, and other seasonal favorites.
  • Must-Try Treats: The bakery favorites are a huge draw. Look for their homemade fudge and, of course, the fresh apple treats.
  • Key Apple Varieties: The farm harvests nearly a dozen varieties of Virginia apples from late July through mid-November.

3. Lloyd Family Farms (Rockville, VA)

For Richmond residents looking for a closer, family-focused experience, Lloyd Family Farms in Rockville offers a fantastic fall festival atmosphere combined with the harvest. It is one of the closest options to the city that offers a full slate of activities.

  • What Makes It Unique: This farm is a premier destination for fall family fun. The focus is on the Fall Festival, which includes a massive pumpkin patch, hayrides, a corn maze, a petting zoo, a straw castle, and various games.
  • Apple Offering: While more famous for its pumpkin patch and festival, Lloyd Family Farms offers apples and pumpkins during the fall season, making it a perfect one-stop shop for all your autumnal decor and treats.
  • Visitor Tip: Check their website for event dates and admission costs, as the Fall Festival is a ticketed event that includes all the activities.

4. Drumheller's Orchard (Lovington, VA)

Located in Lovingston, Drumheller's is a classic, family-run orchard that truly embraces the spirit of a rustic fall harvest. It is a fantastic option for a slightly more traditional, less commercialized picking experience.

  • What Makes It Unique: Drumheller's is famous for its two annual Apple Festivals, which typically take place on the last weekend of September and the third weekend of October. These festivals feature live music, local crafters, good food, and fun activities like the corn maze and apple slingshots.
  • Farm Products: Beyond U-Pick apples, the farm market sells fresh cider, homemade apple butter, honey, and a variety of baked goods.
  • Key Activities: Don't miss the chance to ride out to the pumpkin patch or try your hand at the apple slingshots, which are a major hit with kids and adults alike.

Essential Apple Picking Tips for Your RVA Day Trip

To make your U-Pick adventure as fun and efficient as possible, keep these essential tips in mind.

  • Check the Schedule: Always verify the orchard’s opening hours and PYO availability on the day you plan to visit. This is the single most important step.
  • Wear the Right Shoes: Orchards are farms, meaning the ground can be uneven, muddy, or dusty. Closed-toe shoes or old boots are highly recommended.
  • Bring Cash: While most major orchards accept credit cards, smaller vendors or festival activities may be cash-only.
  • Pack Water and Snacks: Especially for the longer drives, bring your own water. Many orchards offer food, but having a backup is always a good idea.
  • Pick Gently: Teach children (and yourself!) to twist the apple gently off the branch rather than pulling. This protects the tree and prevents other apples from falling.
  • Bring Your Own Bags/Containers: While most orchards provide bags, bringing your own reusable bags or buckets can make carrying your haul easier and is more eco-friendly.

Topical Authority Entities (25+):

Richmond, Virginia, RVA, U-Pick, Apple Picking, Carter Mountain Orchard, Chiles Peach Orchard, Drumheller's Orchard, Lloyd Family Farms, Charlottesville, Crozet, Lovingston, Rockville, Blue Ridge Mountains, Fall Festival, Corn Maze, Hayrides, Pumpkin Patch, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Butter, Cider, Fudge, Gala Apple, Honeycrisp Apple, Fuji Apple, Jonagold Apple, Pink Lady Apple, Albemarle Pippin, Ginger Gold, Farm Market, Bakery, Specialty Foods, Local Crafters, Apple Slingshots, Central Virginia.

The Ultimate 2026 Guide: 4 Must-Visit Apple Picking Orchards Near Richmond, VA
apple picking richmond va
apple picking richmond va

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