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Nestled amid Arkansas’s rolling hills and vibrant forests lies a hidden gem that transforms into a picturesque wonderland during the autumn season: apple orchards. These orchards offer a mesmerizing experience for visitors seeking the essence of fall.
The apple orchards of Arkansas are a testament to the state’s rich agricultural heritage. Orchards have been a part of the state’s landscape for generations, passed down from generation to generation. Many of these orchards have a long and storied history, with some dating back over a century.
History of Apple Production in Arkansas
Early settlers, recognizing the potential of the land, planted apple orchards as a means of self-sufficiency and to support their growing communities. These early apple farms played a crucial role in local agriculture and established apple production as an essential part of the state’s agricultural heritage. With its warm summers and cooler winters, Arkansas provided the ideal conditions for growing a variety of apple species.
Early settlers from Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas brought seeds for domesticated apples to Arkansas. As early as 1822, reports mention apples on James Sevier’s farm, but the varieties grown in the Ozarks marked the state as a powerhouse fruit producer. The early lack of transportation kept the “Apple Belt of the Ozarks” from its potential and extreme production and distribution. Still, the railroad and later distributors like Harvey Jones changed how produce expanded from the Ozark hills.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, apple production in Arkansas expanded significantly through improved agricultural techniques and the introduction of new apple varieties. The climate was the most significant factor in growth. At one point, The Oaks, Sam Peel’s home in Bentonville, had an apple production of nearly 600 trees. By the mid-20th century, Arkansas had become known for its apple orchards, with several farms specializing in both commercial production and local markets.
In recent years, apple farming has found a resurgence through grafting and heirloom seed testing, as people desire to preserve heritage farms and relearn techniques inherited from their grandparents’ homesteading.
Must-visit apple orchards in Arkansas
Before we get too far off the path, we’ve got to declare two things. First, Arkansas has an official apple variety. During our state’s apple production heyday, one fruit stood above the others: the Arkansas Black Apple. This apple variety is like a fine wine; It is very tart right after it’s picked, but it sweetens while it ripens. It’s great for fall cooking, drink making, and savory applications in stuffing and Thanksgiving dishes.
Another notable Arkansas apple destination is the Arkansas Apple Festival hosted annually in Lincoln (Oct. 4-6, 2024). Nearby, Cane Hill boats some of those early days of apple production with upcoming Cider Pressing classes. Now, onto a handful of orchards where you can pick and purchase Arkansas-grown apples.
Vanzant’s Fruit Farm | Lowell
On the outskirts of Lowell, Vanzant’s Fruit Farm is a delightful destination for apple enthusiasts and lovers of farm-fresh produce. At Vanzant’s Fruit Farm, visitors can enjoy a variety of apple, carefully cultivated to provide the best flavors and textures. The farm’s scenic surroundings add to the experience, offering a peaceful setting to explore the grounds, including a giant pumpkin patch and stuffed pumpkin family enjoying the fall breeze.
Vanzant’s is not a “pick your own” type of experience. Because of their clients, they must control who accesses the fruit and harvesting process. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the flavors of the field and other produce and jarred produce treats. Farmer Fred visits the office daily to oversee the operation, where he planted his first trees in 1949.
Drewery Orchard and Farm | Dover
Drewery Orchard and Farm is a family-owned farm celebrated for its well-tended orchards and warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a day of fall fun. Visitors can explore a variety of apple types, each grown with care to ensure exceptional taste and quality. The farm team picks produce at its peak ripeness and sells it in their farm market. They are a highlight spot for the famous Arkansas black apples, typically ready in mid-October.
In addition to its impressive apple selection, Drewery Orchard and Farm often features other seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with homemade treats served at their back porch breakfasts. Fresh apple cider, cider slushies, and delicious baked goods add a special touch to your visit.
McGarrah Farms Rivercrest | Fayetteville
Nestled in the scenic outskirts of Fayetteville, McGarrah Farms Rivercrest stands out as a top destination for apple lovers and farm enthusiasts. This inviting orchard offers a quintessential fall experience in a picturesque rural setting.
At McGarrah Farms Rivercrest, visitors can delight in a range of apple varieties, and the orchard’s well-tended trees provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day of apple picking while you attend the fall festival.
The fall festival at McGarrah is a cornerstone Northwest Arkansas fall event, mostly known for the games, hayride and pumpkin patch. But apple picking is an add-on activity your family can experience besides the corn maze. Whether gathering apples for baking, enjoying a day out with family, or simply appreciating the beauty of fall, McGarrah Farms Rivercrest offers a delightful escape into the heart of the harvest season.
A & A Orchard | Green Forest
Nestled in the picturesque Ozark Mountains, the orchard spans rolling hills filled with rows of vibrant apple, peach and cherry trees. In the spring, the blossoms create a stunning display of pink and white, while the fall brings a bountiful harvest of fresh, juicy fruit.
Each fall, the orchard expands its production to apple cider pressed on-site at the Arkansas Food Innovation Center and sold in local farmer’s markets in Sept. and Oct.. Watch for A&A apples and cider at the Fayetteville and Bentonville Farmer’s Markets on Saturday mornings.
Appel Farms | Springdale
Appel Farms is known for its sizable u-pick strawberry experiences each spring. But its commitment to bringing people back to the farm carries over to fall with apples and pumpkins. A veteran and his family locally own Appel Farms. Travis grew up in the home on the farmland and began to dabble in farm production. They have 10 acres of crops in rotation, and he doesn’t plan to stop.
Growing their agritourism experiences, the team recently added a family member to their staff and expanded their weekly menu to include apple pies and caramel apples. Followers can place pickup orders weekly, stop by the farm on Saturday mornings, or watch for the Appel’s produce at local farmer’s markets.
Friend Orchard | Bellefonte
The Friend Orchard is a beloved local gem renowned for its exceptional apple production and vibrant market presence. It has operated on the farm in Boone County for over 35 years. Among the Ozark Mountains, the orchard boasts various apple varieties, including classic favorites like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji, all nurtured with care in the fertile Arkansas soil.
Visitors stop at the farm market on-site or in Harrison and Mountain Home, where fresh-picked produce and baked goods are available. This multi-generation farm operates primarily during peach and apple season, tending to crops and fields of orchards year-round.
Whether you’re looking to pick your own apples, savor delicious apple treats, or soak in the beauty of the fall foliage, Arkansas’s apple orchards offer something for everyone. Embrace the spirit of autumn by visiting one of these enchanting orchards and creating lasting memories amid the apple trees.
Edward Gay Family Farm | Springdale
For generations, the Edward Gay Family Farm has been growing on the same land in Springdale. They grow nine varieties of apples, including the Arkansas Black Apple, and even have a large open-air authentic vintage market. This year, they are celebrating their 101st year of growing and selling their produce to the community.
Other regionally grown produce is sold at their roadside market on Hwy 412E. There they sell tomatoes, watermelons, cucumbers, peppers, squashes and a whole lot more! They only carry the most fresh and locally produced seasonal products.
One of our favorite fall recipes is Apple Dumplings and making Apple Butter after we make an annual trek to an orchard or fruit stand.
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