Blueberry picking in Indiana is one of those summer activities that sounds simple because it is. Grab a bucket, find a row with ripe berries and let the kids snack just enough that everyone still has something to take home.
Indiana has several u-pick blueberry farms within driving distance of Indianapolis, plus larger farms up north for families planning a summer day trip. Most farms pick from late June into August, though the exact window shifts with the weather.
U-pick hours change daily, and a farm may close for a few days to let more berries ripen, so check the farm’s website or Facebook page or call before you head out. For more warm-weather ideas, see our guide to summer activities around Indianapolis.
U-Pick Blueberry Farms in Central Indiana
Driving Wind Farm
- Address: 6410 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
- Phone: (317) 492-9512
- Good to know: Driving Wind offers u-pick strawberries, blueberries and blackberries from late May into August. The cafe and farm store are generally open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., though hours and u-pick availability can shift seasonally.
Zink Berry Farm & Kiko Goats
- Address: 5878 S. Skinner Road, Morgantown, IN 46160
- Phone: (765) 346-9813
- Good to know: Zink Berry Farm grows blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. Call ahead to confirm what’s ripe before driving out.
Hidden Acres Fruit Farm
- Address: 10645 W. CR 425 S, Wilkinson, IN 46186
- Phone: (765) 617-1768
- Good to know: Hidden Acres runs by appointment and asks visitors to call before heading out so someone can be at the farm to meet them.
Annie’s Orchard
- Address: 9624 W. 75 S, West Lafayette, IN 47906
- Phone: (765) 430-0405
- Good to know: Annie’s Orchard grows strawberries, cherries, blueberries, peaches and nectarines, and is listed by Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette as open June through August with seasonal hours. Check the orchard’s Facebook page or call ahead for current blueberry availability.
Martin Acres
- Address: 4840 Hawthorne Ridge Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47906
- Phone: (765) 463-4215
- Good to know: Martin Acres is a u-pick blueberry farm with evening and Saturday picking hours during the season. Picking typically begins in late June and runs for about eight weeks, depending on weather and berry availability.
U-Pick Blueberry Farms in Northern Indiana
Northern Indiana has several larger blueberry farms, including farms in Hobart, Mishawaka, Leo-Cedarville and Wheatfield. These are longer drives from Indianapolis, but they can make sense for a summer day trip, a weekend away or families who want to stock the freezer.
Merrillville Farms
- Address: 6716 Colorado St., Hobart, IN 46342
- Phone: (219) 293-2492
- Good to know: Merrillville Farms offers u-pick and pre-picked blueberries, with the season typically beginning around early July. Confirm current picking conditions before driving.
The Blueberry Ranch
- Address: 54743 Buckeye Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545
- Phone: (574) 255-5773
- Good to know: The Blueberry Ranch’s u-pick season typically begins in July and runs through mid-August. The farm offers organized picking, accepts credit cards and has indoor bathrooms, handwashing sinks and a shaded picnic area.
Cedar Creek Produce
- Address: 11709 Clay St., Leo-Cedarville, IN 46765
- Phone: (260) 627-5239
- Good to know: Cedar Creek Produce offers u-pick blueberries, strawberries and raspberries, with blueberries typically starting in early July.
Van Kley’s Blueberries
- Address: 2666 W. State Road 10, Wheatfield, IN 46392
- Phone: (219) 956-3687
- Good to know: Van Kley’s offers u-pick and pre-picked blueberries, plus honey at its Red Barn Farm Stand, and grows eight varieties of blueberries.
When is Blueberry Season in Indiana?
Blueberry season in Indiana usually starts in late June or early July and runs into August. The exact timing depends on the farm, the variety of blueberry and the weather. A rainy week, a hot stretch or a busy picking day can all change what is available.
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture and Purdue University both place the state’s blueberry harvest in June, July and August.
Tips for Picking Blueberries with Kids
Go Early When You Can
Blueberry picking is much more pleasant before the fields heat up. Early mornings and weekdays are usually easier with kids, especially if you have toddlers who believe patience is a scam.
Dress for a Farm, Not a Photo Shoot
Choose comfortable clothes that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes, hats and sunscreen. Some farms have shaded areas, but berry rows are usually sunny.
Show Kids What Ripe Berries Look Like
Ripe blueberries are deep blue and should come off the bush easily with a gentle roll or tug. Leave green, red or pale berries on the plant so they can ripen for the next round of pickers.
Bring Water and Snacks
Picking can take longer than expected, especially if the kids get serious about finding the biggest berry in Indiana. Bring water, snacks and a cooler if you plan to drive home with a larger haul.
How to Store Fresh Blueberries
Pick the best berries: Look for plump, firm blueberries with a deep blue color and a light powdery coating. Skip green or soft berries.
Store them unwashed: Keep blueberries unwashed in a covered container in the refrigerator. Wash them right before eating or using them.
Freeze extras: To freeze blueberries, spread unwashed berries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to freezer bags or airtight containers for smoothies, muffins and the midwinter version of “remember when we had energy?”
More Summer Farm Fun Near Indianapolis
If your family likes u-pick outings, keep an eye on local farms throughout the season for strawberries, blackberries, peaches, apples and pumpkins. You can also find more local produce and seasonal treats in our Indianapolis farmers market guide.
