When it comes to the very fabric of the United States, Texas has long been an important state – especially when it comes to defending American values, preserving the agricultural traditions of the nation’s forefathers, and highlighting the individualism that the American Dream so vividly describes.
With a long and storied history, during which the state has seen many large changes, various agricultural practices have continued – being woven into the consciousness of the state of Texas, and become an important part of their heritage and pride.
One such practice is apple farming – a tradition loved by farmers and pickers alike. But this begs the question: where are the best apple picking spots in the state of Texas?
Texas: The Facts
Located in the south central region of the United States, Texas is a state with a long and storied history – both in the western expansion of European settlement, but also in the creation of the quintessential American image.
First acting as a border region between several notable indigenous tribes – the Alabama, Apache, Atakapan, Bidai, Caddo, Aranama, Comanche, Choctaw, Coushatta, Hasinai, Jumano, Karankawa, Kickapoo, Kiowa, Tonkawa, and Wichita tribes respectively – the area that is now Texas was first colonized by Spanish settlers in the mid 1500s, before central European settlers eventually reached the United States over a century later.
Following the westward expansion in the late 1700s, the state of Texas stood as a strong yet isolated republic for many decades, before being granted federal statehood in 1845.
Since then, the state has long maintained a cultural significance and individuality, even within the fabric of the wider United States – with cattle farming and agriculture becoming significant staples for not only their own economy, but for that of the country as well.
In modern times, this historic association with farming continues, and the state continues to farm and produce the best meat, crops, and produce in the country.
The 10 Best Apple Picking Sites In Texas
Now that we know a little more about the history of Texas, and the importance that farming has always had to those living in the state, let’s take a look at another Texas tradition – apple growing, an American pastime that has come to define the country.
This is a tradition that remains strong today, and there are numerous apple farms within the state where locals and tourists alike can come and pick their fill.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at the 10 best apple picking farms in the state of Texas!
Located in Daingerfield, Texas, Greer farm is one of the best spots in the state for apple picking – laid out on a picturesque parcel of land with orchards dedicated to blackberries, blueberries, figs, plums, pears, and of course, apples.
But there is more to this quaint little farm, with locals also able to collect meat, jams, honey, eggs, and all manner of other farm produce to take away with them after their visit.
As well as the apple picking, there are also cooking classes, fine dining experiences, and numerous more activities that can be booked and enjoyed.
Located in Pittsburg, Texas – that’s right, there are two Pittsburg’s – Efurd Orchard is one of the oldest apple orchards in the state, opening in 1972 under the ownership of Greg and Amy Efurd.
Despite being well known for their peaches – a product that has granted them national acclaim – they also have apple orchards for guests to frequent and pick from to their heart’s content.
They also have orchards dedicated to other seasonal fruit, such as blackberries, blueberries, sweet potatoes (Also check out Can You Freeze Sweet Potato), and even pumpkins for Halloween.
Located just outside Houston, Froberg Farms are a year round staple for Texans right across the state. Known for their extensive apple orchards, Froberg Farms also host extensive activities for families to enjoy throughout the year.
For fans of spooky, seasonal fun, they also have a famous corn maze for people to navigate through during their Fall Festival each year.
Located in Medina, Texas, Love Creek Orchards was established in 1981 by Baxter and Carol Adams – two first time growers who eventually became pioneers in apple farming within the state.
With various apple picking tours and experiences throughout the spring and summer months, this may not be as extensive an experience as some of the year round farms, but it is one of the best.
With other fruits – such as figs and blackberries – as well as jams and preserves for sale, this is a wholesome day out for all the family to enjoy.
Located in the town of Roanoke near Fort Worth, Texas, Henrietta Creek Orchard has over 500 apple trees waiting to be picked.
Known for the quality of their produce, and the expansiveness of their property, Henrietta Creek is also heavily involved with bees and pollination – a subject they work on closely with Texas universities, providing educational visits and lessons for children and adults alike.
Offering something a little different than the usual apple picking farm, Henrietta Creek really is the full package – and one you will not want to miss!
Located in Wichita Falls, Texas, Morath Orchard was established as a small peach orchard in 1981, before expanding into the leading fruit enterprise that it has become today.
With a focus on apples, blackberries, melons, vegetables, and even pecans, Morath Orchard runs seasonal picking tours throughout the year, where guests can fill a basket with their favorite goods to take home with them.
What’s more, Morath Orchard is really community focused, running programmes where locals can invest in the upkeep of the farm, and then receive shares of the produce come harvest time.
Located in the town of Idalou, Texas, Top of Texas is a scenic orchard known for its rich, fertile soil, temperate climate, and for producing some of the best apples in the state.
A perfect destination for families of all shapes and sizes, Top of Texas keeps itself simple and uncomplicated, sticking to what they do, and making sure they do it to the best of their ability – one reason why they have become and remained so popular within the Lone Star State.
While there might not be many orchards in the city of Houston – due to it being a city – one of the few strong contenders is Fruit N Such Orchard located in the Dickinson area of Greater Houston.
With numerous tours and picking sessions throughout the year, Fruit N Such doesn’t have all its apples in one basket, spreading its focus to plums, peaches, figs, and various forms of citrus fruits – all of which guests can pick and enjoy.
With a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, Austin Orchards might not solely specialize in apples, but they are certainly well versed in growing them.
Located in Garfield, Texas, Austin Orchards have extensive orchards dedicated to peaches, plums, pears, blackberries, pomegranates, figs, grapes, citrus fruits, and watermelons – all of which are available for guests to pick and purchase on their visit.
They also run numerous tours of the property, and provide educational information to those interested in the processes of fruit farming.
Last on our list, but by no means least, we have Sweet Berry Farm – located in Marble Falls, right in the heart of Texas Hill Country.
With apple orchards, guided picking tours, corn mazes, petting zoos, and locally produced ice cream, Sweet Berry Farm really is a great place to bring the kids for a wholesome family day out. What’s more, there are plenty of fruits to enjoy and take home after you’re done too!
Address: 1801 FM 1980, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about Texas, and the best places to find apple picking spots in the state.
It’s true that the state of Texas has a lot to offer, and has been integral to the fabric of the United States throughout its long and storied history.
What’s more, the long history of farming and agriculture has become a strong tradition in the state, and one that all Texans are keen to further and celebrate into the future.
So if you are looking for the best spots to pick apples in Texas, then why not try some of these locations? Something tells me you won’t be disappointed!
Hi, my name is Amelia Haslehurt and I am a food blogger. As you can guess, I am passionate about what I eat, but what is most important to me when reviewing is high quality, fresh, organic, delicious ingredients.
I wanted to create an online space where others could sample some of my favorite recipes, and share in my passion for home-grown produce.
Whether you are looking for vegan recipes, easy recipes, healthy recipes or your favorite yummy snacks to brighten your day, I can help you out here at LocallyGrownGardens.com
