Pumpkin Picking Adventures at Demarest Farms, NJ
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves walking on uneven ground but no strenuous activity.
Overview
Head to Demarest Farms in Hillsdale, NJ, for an authentic pumpkin picking experience paired with scenic hayrides. Perfect for families and fall lovers, this adventure promises vivid autumn landscapes and hands-on fun just outside New York City.
Pick Your Own Pumpkins
Ages 2+ • 1.5 Hours • September and October 8am-5pm • Must Reserve Online!
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About This Adventure
Experience the joy of fall at Demarest Farms with a unique pumpkin picking adventure! Enjoy scenic hayrides and the thrill of selecting your perfect pumpkin. Reservations are essential, ensuring a smooth visit. Embrace the outdoors and create lasting memories in this vibrant autumn setting, perfect for families and friends alike.
The best way to spend fall outdoors at Demarest Farms!
Duration
1.5 hours
Schedule:
September and October Weekends and Holidays 8am to 5pm Thursday and Friday 3pm-4:30 **Hayrides on weekends from 8 am to 5 pm **Hayrides on Thursday and Friday 3 pm to 4:30 pm
Operating season update: Demarest Farm may extend its operating days and season dependent upon prevailing weather conditions and attendance trends.
2025 Pumpkin Picking Guidelines
1- You MUST MAKE A RESERVATION, This will give you a date and time to arrive at the farm. You WILL NOT be able to purchase tickets at the farm market to pick your own. 2- Please arrive at your reservation time. IMPORTANT: may experience up to a 30-minute wait during peak times between your reservation time and start time. Your allocated picking time frame will adjust accordingly, please be mindful of your time frame to avoid delaying other families. 3-When arriving at the farm the PYO ENTRANCE is located directly across the street from the farm market (NOT THE FARM MARKET ENTRANCE). Follow the signage. 4- * PLEASE NOTE WE CANNOT ACCOMMODATE BUSES ON WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. 5- Hayrides will be available at this time in the orchard. (Saturday and Sunday 8 am to 5 pm and Thursday and Friday 3 pm to 4:30 pm). Please wear the proper shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. 6- No outside items such as backpacks, etc. will be allowed into the orchard area. Farm personnel will be monitoring the situation closely. 7-Outside food, beverages, and picnics are not allowed in the orchard. 8- Sampling of fruit is prohibited. 9- NO DOGS ALLOWED EXCEPT ADA CERTIFIED SERVICE ANIMALS
Enjoy the outdoor experience! There’s nothing better than picking plump pumpkins in the fall!
Adventure Tips
Reserve Your Spot in Advance
Reservations are mandatory to secure your pumpkin picking time and avoid wait times.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The orchard terrain is uneven; closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended.
Arrive On Time
Early or late arrivals may shorten your picking window due to scheduling with other visitors.
Respect Farm Policies
No outside food, drinks, or backpacks allowed in the orchard to protect the environment and crops.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern grey squirrels often seen darting through the trees
- Occasional sightings of barred owls in the wooded edges of the farm
History
Demarest Farms has served the Hillsdale community for decades as a working family farm, evolving to balance agricultural tradition with public engagement.
Conservation
The farm actively limits external inputs and controls visitor traffic to minimize soil compaction and protect native flora within the orchard ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe Shoes
Protect your feet and provide traction on uneven orchard terrain.
fall specific
Layered Clothing
Prepare for variable autumn temperatures with light layers.
fall specific
Hat and Sunscreen
Sun protection during hayrides and field time.
fall specific
Reusable Bag or Basket
For carrying your pumpkin and any farm market purchases.
fall specific