Baugher's Orchard is a family-run farm in Maryland with pick-your-own apples, a cider house, and a farm stand

Baugher's Orchard sits in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, about 90 minutes north of Baltimore. The farm grows over 40 apple varieties and operates a pick-your-own section during harvest season, typically from late August through October. Visitors can also buy pre-picked fruit at the farm stand, purchase fresh cider made on-site, and visit during special events the farm hosts throughout the year.

The orchard has been family-owned since 1947 and operates as a working farm, not a theme park. That means hours, availability, and what's ripe change week to week. The farm publishes updates on their website and social media about which varieties are ready to pick and whether the orchard is open that day.

Key Takeaways

  • Baugher's is located in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, and operates seasonally from late August through October for pick-your-own apples.
  • You bring your own containers or rent baskets on-site, and you pay by weight at the farm stand when you leave.
  • The farm makes fresh cider daily during the season and sells it at the stand along with pre-picked apples and other products.
  • Hours and which apple varieties are ripe change throughout the season, so check their website or call before you visit.
  • The farm hosts events like cider pressing demonstrations and hayrides on select weekends; dates and times are posted online.

What to bring and how picking works

Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. The ground is uneven, and you'll be reaching into branches. Bring your own containers — buckets, bags, or baskets — or rent a basket at the farm stand for a small fee. The farm provides picking bags if you need them, but having your own speeds things up.

You pick at your own pace and move through the rows on your own. Staff mark which varieties are in which sections, but you navigate the orchard yourself. When you're done, you take your fruit to the farm stand, where staff weigh it and charge you by the pound. Prices vary by variety and year; check their website or call ahead if you want to know the current rate.

Parking, restrooms, and what the farm stand sells

Baugher's has a gravel parking lot that fills up on weekends and during peak harvest. Arrive early if you're visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, especially in September when the weather is good and families are out. The farm has portable restrooms on-site; they're basic but available.

The farm stand sells pre-picked apples by the pound or in pre-packed bags, fresh cider made daily, apple cider donuts, jams, honey, and seasonal produce. You can also buy apple butter and other preserves. The stand accepts cash and cards. If you're planning to buy cider to take home, bring a cooler or plan to drink it soon — it's unpasteurized and should be refrigerated.

Hours, closures, and how to check before you go

Baugher's opens in late August and typically closes at the end of October, though exact dates shift based on weather and harvest timing. During the season, the farm is usually open daily, but hours vary — some days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., other days 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The farm closes on some Mondays and Tuesdays, and bad weather can close the orchard mid-day.

Before you drive out, check their website or Facebook page for the current week's hours and which varieties are ready. You can also call the farm directly. This takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip if the orchard is closed or if the variety you want isn't ripe yet.

Special events and hayrides

Baugher's hosts seasonal events on weekends, including cider pressing demonstrations, hayrides, and farm tours. These events are free or low-cost and run on a schedule posted on the farm's website. Hayrides typically run on weekends in September and October and take you through the orchard and around the property.

Events are weather-dependent and may be cancelled if it rains or if the farm is too busy. Call or check online the morning of the event if weather is uncertain. Bring cash if you plan to buy food or cider at the stand during an event — the farm may have limited card processing during busy times.

What to know about the varieties and ripeness

Baugher's grows over 40 varieties, including Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, and heirloom types like Winesap and Northern Spy. Different varieties ripen at different times — early varieties like Gala are ready in late August, while late-season apples like Honeycrisp and Fuji peak in September and October.

If you have a favorite variety, ask the farm stand staff which weeks that apple is typically at its best. They can tell you whether it's worth coming back next week or if now is the time. Ripe apples come off the tree easily with a gentle twist; if you have to pull hard, it's not ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make a reservation to pick apples?

Baugher's does not require reservations for pick-your-own. You can show up during open hours and start picking. On very busy weekends, the farm may limit how many people are in the orchard at once, but this is rare. Call ahead if you're visiting with a large group and want to confirm they can accommodate you.

Can I bring my dog to the orchard?

Baugher's policy on pets varies. Call the farm before you visit to ask whether dogs are allowed that day. Some farms restrict pets during peak season to avoid disruptions, while others allow leashed dogs year-round. It's a quick call and worth confirming.

What if I don't want to pick my own apples?

You can buy pre-picked apples at the farm stand by the pound or in bags. The stand also sells fresh cider, cider donuts, and other products. You don't have to pick to visit — many people come just to shop and eat.

How much does it cost to visit?

There is no entrance fee. You pay only for what you pick or buy. Basket rentals are a few dollars, and apples are priced by the pound — typically between $1.50 and $3 per pound depending on variety. Cider, donuts, and other items have separate prices posted at the stand.

Is the orchard accessible for people with mobility issues?

The picking rows are on uneven ground, and the orchard is not flat. If you have mobility concerns, call the farm to ask about accessibility options. Some people with limited mobility prefer to shop at the farm stand instead of picking. Staff can tell you what's realistic for your situation.