5 Kawarthas pumpkin patches and what makes them unique

Taking your children or grandchildren to a Kawarthas pumpkin patch in the fall offers more than just a chance to pick out the perfect pumpkin—it also makes for a fun-filled outing.

The pumpkin patches in the Kawartha Lakes feature various family-friendly activities. From corn mazes to pumpkin bowling, they have something to offer everyone.

To help you pick the patch that’s right for you and your family, we’ve put together this roundup.

MacArthur’s Pumpkin Patch: outdoor play paradise

Location: Oakwood, Ontario

MacArthur’s Pumpkin Patch is more than just a place to pick out your fall pumpkins – it’s an adventure playground for kids. The outdoor playground is a big draw, featuring whimsical games like pumpkin bowling, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, a Jenga set, hay bales for climbing, and a giant hamster wheel that will have your little ones burning off energy in no time.

The family-friendly atmosphere and variety of engaging activities at this Kawarthas pumpkin patch make MacArthur’s a favorite for those looking to blend traditional pumpkin picking with playtime.

BONUS: MacArthur’s Pumpkin Patch also has a farm store. Here you can purchase preserves, honey, cheese, soups, squash, Amish meats, dill pickles, apple cider, seasonal decor, charcuterie boards and more.

Stellmar Farm: where giant pumpkins grow

Location: Little Britain, Ontario

If the children in your family are curious types, they’ll enjoy Stellmar Farm. This Kawarthas pumpkin patch is known for the giant pumpkins and squash that they grow. As part of your visit, you and the kids can take a tour and ask questions to learn what it takes to grow these pumped-up pumpkins.

Like a good scare? Make your way through the haunted corn maze if you dare or head back to Stellmar Farm at the end of the week for their “Friday Night Fright” and go through the maze in the dark with only a flashlight to guide you.

Bonus: Stellmar Farm also sells fall decorating supplies such as straw bales, corn stalks and gourds, plus beeswax skincare products.

Vanderview Farms: 11-acre corn maze

Location: Norwood, Ontario

If your kids or grand kids are a little older Vanderview Farms will be a good choice. Why? Because at this Kawarthas pumpkin patch the whole family can put their navigational skills to the test trying to work their way through the farm’s massive, 11-acre corn maze.

In years past their maze has been cut in the shape of a pumpkin. (Visit their website to see what they’ve created this fall).

And after you’ve solved the maze there’s one more challenge to overcome—picking a pumpkin from the 25 varieties that they grow!

Bonus: Vanderview Farms also has a roadside farm stand that features a variety of seasonal produce.

McQuaids Country Market: 9-acre corn maze with games & puzzles

Location: Omemee, Ontario

If you’re confident that you and your tribe can solve a corn maze and would like a little extra challenge, head to McQuaids Country Market. Here at this Kawartha Lakes pumpkin patch they’ve taken their corn maze to the next level. How? By adding games and riddles to solve as you try to figure out your way to the maze’s exit. Once you’ve completed the maze, there are various pumpkins to pick from.

Bonus: McQuaids Country Market also sells fall décor packages which include decorating supplies such as straw bales, corn stalks and gourds. They have a market stand too which includes fresh meat; produce; homemade jams, relishes, salsa; curds; and fudge.

McLean Berry Farm: a pumpkin-themed extravaganza

Location: Lakefield, Ontario

A berry farm for most of the year, come October McLean Berry Farm takes fall festivities to the next level with their annual Buckhorn Pumpkinfest.

Held over four weekends in October it’s a Kawarthas pumpkin patch destination on steroids!

From pumpkin picking, wagon rides, a bouncy castle and playing on straw bales, to pumpkin bowling, an obstacle course, a pumpkin cannon and 3 corn mazes (including one that is haunted) MacLean Berry Farm has something for kids of all ages.

Plus, there’s a huge sandbox, barnyard animals, a food truck, and live entertainment too!

Bonus: McLean Berry Farm also sells fresh and local items including fruits, vegetables, jams, pickles, preserves, maple syrup, eggs, cheese, meat, honey and sauce.

No matter which Kawarthas pumpkin patch you choose, each one offers something special for children and grandchildren alike, making it a great day outing this fall.