Pumpkin Patches in Ocala
Pick-your-own pumpkins, corn mazes, and fall family fun in Marion County
Planning around Halloween? See our Halloween events in Ocala guide for trunk or treats and haunted trails. Cannon Farms in Dunnellon lets families cut pumpkins off the vine through Nov. 1, and a pumpkin house and patch, a corn maze and Saturday fireworks are at Brown's Adventure Farm (Brown and Brown Farm) in Oxford on weekends through Nov. 8, 2026, and the county's free car-to-car candy events are on trunk or treat near me in Ocala.
The Marion County pick-your-own pumpkin patch with 2026 dates posted is Cannon Farms, 11801 SW 180th Ave. in Dunnellon, where families cut Florida-grown pumpkins off the vine through Nov. 1 while supplies last; general admission is $10 and pumpkins start at $5. Just south of the county line, Brown's Adventure Farm in Oxford runs its fall festival with a pumpkin house and patch, a 7-acre corn maze and Saturday fireworks on weekends through Nov. 8, 2026.
Why Visit a Pumpkin Patch Near Ocala?
Pumpkin patches have become a cherished autumn tradition for families throughout Central Florida, offering a direct connection to seasonal harvest culture. Ocala-area farms provide genuine pick-your-own experiences where families select pumpkins from the field, creating memories beyond simply purchasing produce at a store. The combination of outdoor exploration, physical activity, and family bonding makes pumpkin patch visits beloved fall rituals.
Beyond pumpkin picking, local farms offer complementary autumn activities that extend the seasonal experience. Corn mazes test navigation skills, hayrides provide relaxation and scenic views, and farm festivals feature entertainment and treats. The rustic farm environment appeals to families seeking outdoor recreation and authentic agricultural experiences away from urban settings.
2026 Pumpkin Patches Near Ocala
These patches have posted 2026 dates on their own websites. Details were checked on Oct. 18, 2026; farms can change hours for weather, so confirm before driving out.
Cannon Farms, Dunnellon
Cannon Farms, a fifth-generation family farm at 11801 SW 180th Ave. in Dunnellon, grows its own pumpkins and lets visitors cut them off the vine. The farm says its fall season started Sept. 26 and pumpkin picking runs through Nov. 1 while supplies last, during all regular hours, not just weekends.
- Admission: $10 general admission, $20 Fun Pass (adds face painting); children 2 and under free; seniors 50% off general admission; the produce stand is free to shop
- Pumpkins: sold separately, priced by size from $5
- Included: the Florida-grown pumpkin patch, photo opportunities, the kids' play area and the farm animals, plus a wagon ride through the fields on Saturdays and Sundays; sunflowers are also available for picking
- Hours: extended for the season to Tuesday-Wednesday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. to sunset, Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Monday; check cannonfarms.net for weather changes
Brown's Adventure Farm, Oxford
Brown's Adventure Farm (formerly Brown and Brown Farms) in Oxford, just south of the Marion County line, runs its 7 Weekends of Fall festival on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 26 through Nov. 8, 2026. General admission includes a 7-acre corn maze, barnyard animals, more than 30 attractions and free fireworks on Saturdays, and the farm's Pumpkin House and patch is where visitors pick out pumpkins.
- Hours: Saturdays 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Tickets: $19.95 plus fees online; more at the gate
- Last weekend: Fall Finale, Nov. 7-8
What Activities Are Available at Local Pumpkin Patches?
Pick-Your-Own Pumpkins
Walk through fields to select your own pumpkins directly from vines. Various sizes available from small decorative to large carving varieties. Staff assist with selection tips and pumpkin removal. Fresh, farm-picked pumpkins ensure quality and variety.
Corn Mazes
Navigate intricate paths cut through cornfields. Fun challenge for all ages and skill levels. Different difficulty options available. Mazes change yearly for repeat visitors. Great exercise and problem-solving activity.
Hayrides
Tractor-pulled wagon rides through scenic fields and farm areas. Peaceful relaxation activity for families. Scenic views and seasonal atmosphere. Popular evening entertainment option during fall festivals.
Photo Opportunities
Scenic fall-themed photo backdrops and settings. Pumpkin displays arranged for family photos. Rustic farm backgrounds perfect for seasonal pictures. Many patches encourage family photos on social media.
What Pumpkin Varieties Are Available?
Carving Pumpkins
Medium to large pumpkins with good carving flesh. Classic orange varieties ideal for jack-o'-lanterns. Substantial walls for intricate designs. Available September-October.
Popular varieties: Howden, Connecticut Field
Decorative Pumpkins
Unique colors, shapes, and sizes for fall decor. Warty, ribbed, striped, and unusual varieties. White, green, orange, and mixed colors available. Perfect for porch displays.
Popular varieties: Lumina, Kabocha, Hubbard
Mini Pumpkins
Small decorative pumpkins perfect for children and craft projects. Cute table decorations and centerpieces. Multiple sizes for creating displays. Safe for small children to handle.
Popular varieties: Jack-Be-Little, Munchkin
Pumpkin Patch Visit Tips
Go Early: Visit early morning or weekdays for fewer crowds and widest pumpkin selection
Dress Appropriately: Comfortable shoes, hats, and fall-weight clothing for outdoor walking
Bring Supplies: Wagon/cart for pumpkins, water, sun protection, and extra money
Budget Time: Allow 2-3 hours for picking and activities
Take Photos: Capture fall memories with family pumpkin patch photos
Check Hours: Confirm operating hours before visiting
Frequently Asked Questions
When is pumpkin season in the Ocala area?
In 2026, Cannon Farms, 11801 SW 180th Ave. in Dunnellon, opened its fall season on September 26 and lists pumpkin picking through November 1 while supplies last. Brown's Adventure Farm in Oxford, just south of the Marion County line, runs its 7 Weekends of Fall festival on Saturdays and Sundays from September 26 through November 8, 2026. Selection is usually best earlier in the season, and both farms say to check their sites for weather updates.
What is the best time to visit a pumpkin patch?
Early morning or weekday visits provide the best experience with fewer crowds and the widest pumpkin selection. Weekends attract larger crowds, especially on fall festival weekends and approaching Halloween. Mid-morning (9-11am) is ideal for photography and picking your own pumpkins while avoiding afternoon heat. Mid-September through mid-October offers optimal growing conditions and larger pumpkin selection. Avoid visiting right before Halloween when fields may be depleted and crowds are heaviest.
What should I bring to a pumpkin patch?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), and weather-appropriate clothing for fall temperatures. Bring a wagon or cart for carrying multiple pumpkins, as fields can be large. Water bottles keep your family hydrated while walking through fields. Camera or phone for photos among the pumpkins. Bring extra money for admission, activities, and farm stand purchases. If planning a hayride, wear casual comfortable clothing. Some farms provide wagons and equipment, so check ahead on what's provided.
How do I select a good pumpkin for carving?
Choose pumpkins with flat, unblemished skin and sturdy stems for display. Medium-sized pumpkins (8-12 inches diameter) carve more easily than very large ones. Look for symmetrical shapes for better carving results. Check the bottom for soft spots or damage that indicate rot. Pick pumpkins that feel heavy for their size, indicating thick flesh. For decoration, select interesting shapes and sizes. Many farms offer recommendations and have staff to help select quality pumpkins suitable for your intended use.
What other activities are available at pumpkin patches?
Beyond pumpkin picking, many Ocala-area farms offer corn mazes for navigation fun, hayrides through fields and scenic areas, petting zoos with farm animals, children's play areas, face painting, craft activities, and farm stand shopping with pumpkins and seasonal products. Some farms host fall festivals with music, food vendors, and entertainment on weekends. Photo-op areas with fall decorations are common for creating seasonal memories. Various patches offer different combinations, so check individual farm offerings.
Can I carve pumpkins at a pumpkin patch?
Most farms offer pumpkin carving activities or provide carving areas where families can carve pumpkins on-site. Some farms host carving contests or offer carving instruction. Others provide picking services but encourage carving at home. A few farms rent covered carving stations with tools provided. Check specific farm policies on carving, tool provision, and disposal of carved pumpkins. Some farms offer pre-carved decorative pumpkins if carving isn't your preference. Contact farms directly about their carving programs and policies.
Start Your Fall Adventures at Ocala Pumpkin Patches
Pick your perfect pumpkin and enjoy corn mazes, hayrides, and family fun this fall season.