The Okanagan Valley is home to fresh fruit in the spring, summer, and fall months. Whether you are a local or just visiting, you can stop along your drive and find handfuls of u-picks.
We have compiled a list of U-picks that the kids will love. This is a great activity to keep the kids busy while learning about how the fruit is grown.
Suggestions on what to bring
If it’s your first time going to a U-pick, we have a list of things to bring so you are prepared:
- Pack snacks or lunch – let’s be honest, kids are hungry all the time so this goes a long way
- Bring a water bottle – stay hydrated
- Pack a hat and sunblock – protect yourself during the hot Okanagan months
- Wear appropriate footwear – you will be walking in rough terrain and possibly climbing trees
- Bring your own boxes, containers, and bags – depending on the orchard, they may not provide this so check ahead
U-Pick Locations:
Good “N” Plenty Produce (U-Pick Strawberries)
Good “N” Plenty Produce in Armstrong offers U-Pick during strawberry season. The U-Pick is open on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings from 7:00 to 10:00 am, subject to weather conditions. To ensure availability or inquire about large quantities, it is recommended to call them.
1475 Pleasant Valley Road, Armstrong | (250) 546-6862 | goodnplentyproduce.com
Arndt Orchards (U-Pick Cherries)
Arndt Orchards in Kelowna is a renowned destination for cherry enthusiasts, offering an impressive selection of 11 cherry varieties. With the earliest variety, the Santina Cherries, being the first to ripen, anticipate a July 2024 opening date. Visitors can refer to the orchard’s website for detailed information about availability.
1555 Teasdale Road, Kelowna | (250) 765-9568 | arndtorchards.com/cherry-picking/
Kempf Orchards (U-Pick Cherries)
Every year, this inviting U-pick cherry farm warmly welcomes guests of all ages to indulge in the joy of cherry picking from a selection of 10 delightful cherry varieties. Admission is just $2 per person, and no reservations are required. However, it’s important to note that the orchard has a maximum occupancy, so there might be wait times. Cash or debit payment is accepted, and boxes and containers are available for purchase or you can bring your own.
1409 Teasdake Road, Kelowna | kempforchards.com
Kuipers Family Fruit Farm (U-Pick Cherries, Apricots, Peaches, and Plums)
At Kuipers Family Fruit Farm in the Okanagan, 2024 will offer u-pick cherries in late June and early July, featuring varieties like Cristalina, Vans, Bings, Royal Anne, Rainier, and Lambert, with mid-season cherries such as Lapins and Sweethearts available in mid-July. Early September will see the availability of Late Italian prune/plums. Unfortunately, there will be no apricots or peaches this season due to an arctic cold front last winter. Looking ahead to 2025, expect u-pick apricots, including Sun Glo, Moorpark, Tilton, and Goldbar, from mid-July to early August, and Glo Haven peaches in mid-August.
579 Barnaby Road, Kelowna | (250) 575-3308 | kuipersfamilyfruitfarm.com
K&J Pacific Peaches (U-Pick Raspberries)
Located in Kelowna, K&J Pacific Peaches offers u-pick raspberries, with updates on opening times posted on their Facebook page. In addition to raspberries, they sell a variety of fresh produce, including peaches, apples, plums, pears, tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, and peppers.
1145 Morrison Road, Kelowna | (250) 765-8184 | Facebook
Lakeside Orchards (U-Pick Cherries)
Looking to pick your own cherries? Visit Lakeside Orchards in Kelowna! They have a huge orchard with 2500 cherry trees and offer four different types of cherries. You can come and pick cherries for about a month during the cherry season.
4730 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna | (587) 876-7965 | Facebook
Mike & Lizzy’s Cherry (U-Pick Cherries)
Mike and Lizzy’s Cherry U-Pick usually opens for the season in July. They are open daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, weather permitting. No reservations or entry fees are required; just come by and pick some cherries. They provide all necessary equipment, and visitors should dress for the weather and bring plenty of water. Please note that pets are not allowed inside the orchard. Enjoy picking Vans and Lamberts cherries, with bagged Sweethearts available at the front counter.
4801 Lakeshore Place, Kelowna | (250) 863-4431 | Facebook
Covert Farms Family Estate (U-Pick Strawberries & Blueberries)
Covert Farms U-pick patch is a great opportunity for you to engage in a hands-on farming experience. Located in Oliver, this organic farm offers the chance to pick your own strawberries by appointment only.
300 Covert Place, Oliver | (250) 689-2626) | Website
Dickinson Family Farm (U-Pick Cherries)
Stop at Dickinson Family Farm for a true orchard experience picking fresh, sweet cherries. They have over 100 cherry trees on site and 6 different varieties! While there, don’t forget to get a picture of the World’s Tallest Tripod Orchard Ladder.
17208 Bentley Road, Summerland | (250) 494-0300 | Website
Summerland Strawberry Farm (U-Pick Strawberries & Raspberries)
Summerland Strawberry Farm, located at the end of Haddrell Ave in Summerland, BC, is a charming u-pick farm owned by Sinde and Monty Carter. The farm offers stunning views and deliciously sweet, red strawberries. Loyal to its Facebook followers, the farm provides timely updates on strawberry availability, picking dates, row yields, and capacity. Since the farm fills up quickly, arriving early is recommended. In addition to strawberries, they also offer u-pick raspberries, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors.
10002 Haddrell Avenue, Summerland | (250) 494-7373 | Facebook
Bright Angel Farm (U-Pick Cherries)
Bright Angel Farm, located on 4 acres at the north end of Vernon, offers u-pick cherries with varieties such as Lapins, Lamberts, Rainiers, and Sweethearts. They provide buckets and containers for picking, but visitors can also bring their own. The farm allows online booking for picking days and times, with the schedule available in late June.
6896 Herry Road, Vernon | (250) 558-5552 | Website
Peter’s U-Pick Orchard (U-Pick Cherries) – CLOSED FOR 2024 SEASON
Peter’s fruit picking season opens when their Chelan cherries are ready for picking.
6244 Rimer Road, Vernon | Facebook | Website
Paynters Fruit Market (U-Pick Apricots, Peaches, Plums, Pears & Apples)
Yes, they will let you head out to their orchards and pick fruit yourself! Paynters Fruit Market gives you the option to purchase in-store or u-pick yourself. Based on the season, you can pick apricots, peaches, plums, pears, and apples.
3687 Paynter Road, West Kelowna | (250) 768-7313 | Website
Are you excited to visit some u-picks this season? We sure are! Please share a u-pick location if we missed one. We would love to know! Email us at info (@) okanaganfamilyfun.com.
