Rogue Valley Farm Tour and Must-Visit Farmstands

Nestled between three river valleys, Grants Pass and the surrounding county is an agrarian wonderland. With countless farm stands, growers markets and U-pick farms,  savor the farm-to-fork scene in Grants Pass while enjoying a culinary journey through Southern Oregon. 

Rogue Valley Farm Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes-tour of local farms and ranches during the Rogue Valley Farm Tour Sunday, July 14th from 10am-3pm. Taste the flavors of Southern Oregon during this self-guided adventure to diverse farms and farmstands surrounding Grants Pass. Along this bountiful route, you’ll discover a community of growers and crafters committed to sustainable practices and land stewardship who’ll be offering demos, talks, and samples of their products. Download a brochure and map here:

U-Pick Farms and Farm Stands

Mama Bees Flower Farm

Create your own bouquet at Mama Bees Flower Farm beginning later this July. Located just minutes from award-winning wineries, the farm is a great spot to stop by on the way back from the vineyards of Applegate Valley. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to sunset for U-pick flowers, visitors will have over 500 dahlias to choose from, as well as sunflowers , zinnias, and more! Additionally, the farm offers a small free community vegetable garden and farm stand trailer with pre-made bouquets, fresh eggs and gifts from 9am-9pm daily. While there, say “hay” to resident goats, chickens, and geese and plan a picnic.

Fort Vannoy Farmstand

For multiple generations, the Crouse family has owned and operated Fort Vannoy Farms, integrating sustainable agricultural practices to daily farm life. The best way to experience Fort Vannoy Farms is by visiting their beautiful 500-acre farm on Lower River Road. Their self-serve Farm Stand is open year round from 9am-5pm 7 days a week. There, you’ll find anything from fresh eggs, vegetables, and fruits. Unlike seasonal farms, their year-round production means you will find fresh produce 12 months out of the year. During the summer, their “U Pick” strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, and black raspberry fields are open Friday and Saturdays 8am-noon.

Sweet Cron Farmstand

It’s not a trip to the Illinois Valley without a stop at the Sweet Cron farmstand. After a family member misspelled the sign decades ago, it continues to be a humorous and endearing roadsign welcoming visitors along Redwood Highway. From late summer to fall, enjoy U-pick gladiolas, zinnias, and sunflowers, while taking home some fresh produce from their farmstand.

Rogue Creamery

Located along the banks of the Rogue River, the certified organic creamery is not only renowned for their amazing gourmet cheeses, but also for innovative operations and commitment to sustainability. While visiting the Rogue Creamery Farmstand,  take the free tour of the property, including their state-of-the-art milking parlor or “Cow Palace”. Afterwards, peruse their shop, take home their award winning Rogue Blue, and try their famous grilled cheese.

Lavender Farms

The Southern Oregon Lavender Festival is celebrated every June and July, where you can walk through the fields, make wreaths, try lavender infused goods, and pick your own lavender. Head to six different farms located along the Lavender Trail July 12th-14th for demos, craft vendors, live music, and more. In the Applegate Valley, tour the English Lavender Farm, King Fisher Lavender Farm, and Goodwin Creek Gardens/ Charsaw Farms. Additionally, most of the farms are open for U-pick lavender throughout the summer, so check with the individual farms for hours and updates.

Whistling Duck Farm Store

Follow Williams Highway to Whistling Duck’s Farm Store, where you’ll find fresh organic produce, ferments, prepared food, as well as culinary offerings from other regional businesses. The farm, which specializes in garlic, grows fruits and vegetables with produce offered year round. Visit their farmstand, open 11am-6pm Monday-Friday and  11am-5pm Saturdays.

Farmers Markets

There’s no shortage of great farmers markets in the area, and summertime is the best opportunity to explore them. Visit the Williams Farmers Market every Monday at 5pm in the Applegate Valley, where local growers, crafters, and food vendors are set up. Grab a beer, kombucha, or snack at the Monday Hub while walking around the market. Down the road, plan to attend the Applegate Evening Market at the Lindsey Lodge every Wednesday from 5-8pm. Located along the banks of the Applegate River, the market has dozens of art and produce vendors, food trucks, and drinks provided by the Lodge. In the Illinois Valley, attend the Cave Junction Farmer’s Market across from the Kerbyville Museum on Fridays from 4-7pm. Follow their page to learn about upcoming musical acts and children’s activities. Score fresh produce and hand-crafted goods at downtown’s  Grants Pass Growers Market every Saturday morning from 9am-1pm. Across the street, visit the Grants Pass Makers Market which showcases artisans from across the region.

While exploring Southern Oregon’s agricultural mecca, check out these 50 Things To Do Around Grants Pass and learn about other area attractions on our blog.