Where to Go Apple Picking in Central Maryland: 2025 Guide
Looking for more fall fun? Check out my blog on Fall Farms and Pumpkin Festivals in Maryland: My Top Picks for 2025.
Apple picking has quietly become one of my favorite fall traditions. There’s just something about it, the rhythm of walking orchard rows, the weight of a full basket, the crunch of that first bite that slows everything down in the best way.
Every September, I find myself mapping out weekend drives and figuring out which farms have the best varieties, the prettiest trees, and maybe (let’s be honest) the best cider donuts.
If you're looking to do the same this season, here’s my curated guide to apple picking in Central Maryland, including which spots are closest to Columbia, which ones are worth the extra drive, and a few planning tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Larriland Farms - Woodbine MD
Address: 2415 Woodbine Rd, Woodbine, MD 21797
Website: https://www.pickyourown.com/
Larriland farms is the one I recommend most often to friends, it’s where me and my kiddos have had some of our best fall memories. Larriland is big but still charming, with just enough structure that it never feels overwhelming.
Their apple trees are spread across gentle hills, and depending on when you go, you’ll find different varieties ripening: Gala, Fuji, Empire, and later in the season, Goldrush and Pink Lady. There are wagons for little ones, a straw maze in the fall, and a barn store with all the essentials, cider, jams, and caramel apples that never seem to make it home.
Butlers Orchard - Germantown, MD
Address: 22222 Davis Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20876
Website: https://www.butlersorchard.com/
Butler’s always feels like a full fall experience, not just apple picking. Their rows are a little farther apart, which I like, it feels quieter somehow. They often pair apple season with their annual Pumpkin Festival, which runs through late October. I’ve found Fuji and Crimson Crisp there in recent years, and the orchard staff are always helpful if you're hunting for something specific. It’s a solid pick if you want apples and activities all in one stop.
Baugher’s Orchard and Farm – Westminster, MD
Address: 1015 Baugher Rd, Westminster, MD 21158
Website: https://www.baughers.com/
Baugher’s feels like an old-school farm in the best way. We’ve taken friends here who want the whole package: apples, pumpkins, a petting zoo, wagon rides, and of course, the bakery. Their cider donuts are warm and generously coated in cinnamon sugar (ask me how I know), and they usually have a good range of apples into late October. This is one of those places where you could spend the whole day and still not see everything.
Lohr’s Orchard – Churchville, MD
Address: 3212 Snake Ln, Churchville, MD 21028
Website: https://www.lohrsorchard.com/
Lohr’s is smaller then some other farms and orchards, but it’s very quaint and I think that’s the appeal. You drive down a long farm road and suddenly you’re surrounded by apple trees and cornfields. Their cider is pressed on site and sold cold in big glass bottles that look like something out of a vintage cookbook. If you’re looking for a quieter outing, this one’s lovely.
Homestead Farms - Poolesville, MD
Address: 15604 Sugarland Road Poolesville, Maryland 20837
Website: http://www.homestead-farm.net/
Homestead Farms, just like in it’s name is so homey and so peaceful. There selection of apples ranges from, Ambrosia, Jonagold, and Crimson Crisp. Their picking schedule can change week to week, so I always call ahead. But when it’s open, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, find a shady spot, and stay awhile.
Gaver Farm – Mount Airy, MD
Address: 5501 Detrick Rd, Mt Airy, MD 21771
Website: https://gaverfarm.com/
Gaver Farm has all the energy of fall, and I mean that in a good way. It’s full of activity: apple picking, corn mazes, slides, a giant jumping pillow for kids, and even live music some weekends. We’ve gone with a big group of families, and it was a hit across the board. The different varieties of apples they have are Blondee, Buckeye, Ultra Gold, Crimson Crisp, Empire, Evercrisp and many more!
Catoctin Mountain Orchard – Thurmont, MD
Address: 15036 N Franklinville Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788
If I’m ever craving an escape into nature, this is where I go. Catoctin Mountain feels like a postcard, mountain backdrop, crisp air, trees full of apples that stretch into October. Their farm market is beautiful and packed with pies, baked goods, and apple everything. I love coming here later in the season when the air gets cool and the trees start to show color.
Montpelier Farms – Upper Marlboro, MD
Address: 1720 Crain Hwy, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Website: https://www.montpelierfarms.com/
Montpelier is one of those farms that balances tradition with activity. They do seasonal events really well, and while they’re a little more known for pumpkins and sunflowers, their apple picking is worth checking. It’s a bit of a drive from Columbia but makes for a fun fall road trip, especially if you want something a little different.
Milburn Orchards – Elkton, MD
Address: 1495 Appleton Rd, Elkton, MD 21921
Website: https://milburnorchards.com/
If you’re up for a longer drive, Milburn delivers. It’s one of the more polished orchard experiences, with beautiful signage, a big bakery, and a serious selection of apples, especially mid- to late-season. Their farm store has a huge variety of fall treats and gift items, and the orchard layout is super manageable for families with younger kids.
Choose Your Favorite Apple Orchard in Maryland and Get Picking!
Apple season in Central Maryland usually kicks off in late August and runs into early November. If you're aiming for Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji, September is your sweet spot. For Pink Lady, Goldrush, and cooler air, wait until mid to late October.
Before you go, always check the orchard’s website or call ahead. Weather, crop conditions, and weekend events can all affect what’s available. I always bring layered clothes, wipes (sticky fingers!), snacks, and a big jug of water, and if cider donuts are on the menu, I get those first.
There’s no wrong way to spend a fall weekend, but something about wandering an apple orchard boots in the grass, breeze in the trees, hands full of the season’s best, feels just right. Whether you’re chasing peak Honeycrisp season, looking for a new spot to take the kids, or simply carving out time to breathe in the change of seasons, I hope this guide gives you a little inspiration.
And if you discover a hidden gem I haven’t listed here, let me know. I’m always up for one more apple drive.
