Fall is a popular time for families to visit apple orchards, enjoy fresh-baked treats and take part in seasonal farm activities. Residents in and around Ottumwa have several options to consider, ranging from smaller pick-your-own orchards to larger farms featuring corn mazes, petting zoos, pumpkin patches and hayrack rides.
While some destinations are within approximately 50 miles of Ottumwa, others require a longer drive and may be better suited for a full-day outing.
Schneider Orchard — Lacona
Schneider Orchard, located at 57495 230 Trail near Lacona, is one of the closest listed destinations for apple picking. The orchard offers pick-your-own and pre-picked apples, along with pumpkins during the fall season.
The orchard is approximately 48 miles from Ottumwa, according to an online farm directory. Visitors can call 641-862-3841 to check apple availability, picking conditions and hours before traveling.
Apple Tree Livestock & Orchard — Lockridge
Apple Tree Livestock & Orchard, located at 1041 260th Street in Lockridge, is another potential option for visitors interested in locally grown apples. Public information about the operation is limited, so visitors should call 319-696-1600 to confirm whether apples are available for purchase or pick-your-own during the current season.
Travelers should verify the driving distance from Ottumwa before leaving.
Apple Blossom Farms — Bloomfield
Apple Blossom Farms, located at 14501 Scarlet Avenue in Bloomfield, offers seasonal apple picking and baked goods. The farm has advertised weekend U-pick apples during September and early October, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy fresh apples while supporting a local agricultural business.
Visitors should contact the farm or check its current social media updates to confirm whether apple picking is still available.
Appleberry Orchard — Donnellson
Located at 2469 Highway 2 in Donnellson, Appleberry Orchard offers apples and a variety of fall activities for families. The orchard features a petting farm, children’s play areas, a corn maze and a farm market with homemade pies, breads and other seasonal treats.
The orchard also offers specialty apple treats and an apple cider slush drink. Appleberry Orchard is outside the immediate 50-mile area, making it an option for those willing to travel farther for a full fall outing.
More information is available at https://www.appleberryorchard.com/.
Sass Family Farm — Riverside
Sass Family Farm, located at 3060 160th Street in Riverside, offers a variety of seasonal activities for families. Attractions have included a straw maze, petting zoo, playground and hayrack rides, along with pumpkins and other fall produce.
Riverside is a longer drive from Ottumwa, so visitors should check travel time and confirm current operating hours before planning a visit.
Wills Family Orchard — Adel
Wills Family Orchard, located at 33130 Panther Creek Road in Adel, offers a larger fall farm experience. The 65-acre farm features seasonal activities, including pumpkin picking, tractor rides, a farm store and fresh cider doughnuts. Apple-picking opportunities may also be available depending on the season and crop conditions.
Adel is beyond a 50-mile drive from Ottumwa, making this destination better suited for an extended day trip.
Planning Your Orchard Visit
Apple varieties ripen at different times throughout the fall, and weather conditions can affect harvest schedules. Some orchards offer pick-your-own apples, while others may sell only pre-picked fruit or have limited availability late in the season.
Before heading out, visitors are encouraged to confirm:
- Current operating hours and seasonal closing dates.
- Whether apples are available for pick-your-own or purchase.
- Admission prices and fees for additional activities.
- Available food, baked goods and other seasonal products.
- The driving distance and route from Ottumwa.
Whether visitors choose a nearby orchard or travel farther for a full day of fall activities, these destinations offer opportunities to enjoy Iowa’s autumn season, support local farms and spend time with family.
