6 Best Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches in DC, Maryland, and Virginia
As autumn unfolds and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, families and pet owners in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas are eager to embrace the season’s festivities. One of the most cherished fall traditions is visiting pumpkin patches—an experience made even more special when your dog can join in on the fun! Fortunately, several farms in the region welcome four-legged companions, offering an unforgettable day of exploration, pumpkin picking, and wholesome fun.
Here’s a guide to six of the best dog-friendly pumpkin patches in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, ensuring both you and your canine buddy have a paw-sitively perfect day!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please note that farms may be closed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, some farms may have livestock or working farm dogs off-leash, which could affect your visit. Hours of operation and events may change, so it’s always best to check with the farm directly before planning your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
1. Marker-Miller Orchards (Winchester, Virginia)
If you're looking for a place where your dog can soak up the fresh air while you pick the perfect pumpkin, Marker-Miller Orchards in Winchester is the spot. This family-owned farm nestled in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley is a beautiful fall destination, offering plenty of space for both people and pets to roam.
What to Expect:
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the pumpkin patch and even sniff their way around the farm's rolling hills.
Enjoy picking a variety of pumpkins, sampling fresh-baked goodies like their famous apple cider donuts, or grabbing a bite from their market’s deli while your pup relaxes at your feet.
Address: 3035 Cedar Creek Grade, Winchester, VA 22602
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed inside the farm market, unless they are a certified service dog, but they are welcome on the rest of the property. Please make sure they are on a leash at all times and provide cleanup when needed.
2. Great Country Farms (Bluemont, Virginia)
At Great Country Farms in Bluemont, fall is taken to a whole new level. Known for its lively atmosphere, this farm is perfect if you're looking for a full day of fun with your dog. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s easy to spend the whole day here enjoying the fresh country air.
What to Expect:
Great Country Farms has a little bit of everything—dogs on leashes can join you as you wander the pumpkin patch, try your luck in the corn maze, or simply enjoy a casual walk through the beautiful landscape.
Be sure to grab some of their apple cider and warm doughnuts to fuel your day. Don’t be surprised if your dog looks at you with puppy eyes for a bite of your snack!
In addition to pumpkins, you can check out farm animals, pig races, and if you’re visiting with kids, there’s plenty to keep them busy, from slides to tractor rides.
Address: 18780 Foggy Bottom Rd, Bluemont, VA 20135
Hours of Operation:
Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on a leash and can follow you through much of the farm. Just be sure to keep them away from the farm animals, and as always, clean up after them.
Admission: $14 for an adult during weekdays and $16 for an adult during weekends. Tickets do not include a pumpkin.
3. Hollin Farms (Delaplane, Virginia)
For a more serene, picturesque day in the countryside, Hollin Farms in Delaplane is your go-to. This dog-friendly farm offers a peaceful and slower-paced alternative to some of the bigger, busier farms, but it doesn’t skimp on the charm.
What to Expect:
In addition to pumpkins, Hollin Farms lets you pick apples, potatoes, and even dig up your own peanuts (how fun is that?).
Your dog will love all the wide-open spaces, and you’ll love the farm’s friendly atmosphere.
Address: 1524 Snowden Rd, Delaplane, VA 20144
Hours of Operation:
Hours vary weekly. Check their website.
Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome, but only in designated areas. Keep your dog on a leash and bring those handy waste bags to clean up any mess.
4. Montpelier Farms (Upper Marlboro, Maryland)
Montpelier Farms, located just outside of Washington, D.C., is a popular spot for fall fun, offering a range of activities from hayrides to pumpkin picking. The farm is family-owned and dog-friendly, welcoming pets to join in on the autumn festivities.
What to Expect:
Take your leashed dog along as you search for the perfect pumpkin, and be sure to check out the farm’s other fall attractions like the corn maze, giant slides, and farm animals.
Montpelier Farms offers weekend bonfires, where you can warm up after a day of exploring the patch.
The farm also hosts special events, such as Halloween festivities and nighttime corn mazes.
Address: 1720 Crain Hwy N, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday - Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Monday: Closed
Admission: Tickets are sold on their website. Prices vary depending on day.
5. Sharps at Waterford Farm (Brookeville, Maryland)
Sharps at Waterford Farm welcomes dogs year-round, but if you're looking for an extra special outing, mark your calendar for October 26th, when the farm will host a dedicated Dog Day! This fun event celebrates our furry companions with special activities, making it a perfect day out for both you and your pup.
What to Expect:
Dogs are welcome on the farm any day, but on October 26th, your dog can enjoy a day designed just for them. Dress your pup in a costume, and you’ll receive $1 off any pumpkin!
There will be dog-related vendors, and local rescues will be on-site with adoptable dogs, offering a great opportunity to meet potential new furry family members.
Pamper your dog while you grab a bite from J.Z.’s Brick Oven Pizza Food Truck or sip on craft beer from Waredaca Brewery, both available from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Leashes are required, and remember to bring waste bags for your pet.
Address: 4003 Jennings Chapel Rd, Brookeville, MD 20833
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6. Councell Farms (Cordova, Maryland)
Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Councell Farms offers a classic fall experience, perfect for a relaxing day in the countryside. This family-owned farm is dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy all the fun of pumpkin picking and fall activities with your pet by your side.
What to Expect:
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the pumpkin patch, navigate the corn maze, and roam the farm grounds with you.
Stop by the farm market, which offers a variety of fresh produce, apple cider, and homemade treats, so you can take a bit of fall home with you.
Councell Farms has a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great destination for a peaceful, rural escape with plenty of open space to explore.
Address: 11773 Old Skipton Rd, Cordova, MD 21625
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches:
Pack the essentials: Don’t forget water, a portable bowl, and plenty of waste bags to keep your dog hydrated and the farm clean.
Prepare for fall weather: Autumn days can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring a blanket for your dog to rest on if needed.
Follow the farm rules: Be mindful of where dogs are allowed and keep your pet on a leash at all times.
Be considerate of others: Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so ensure your pup is well-behaved and respectful of other visitors and farm animals.
