There’s something special about picking your own strawberries straight from the field. The berries are sun-warmed, perfectly ripe, and taste nothing like anything you’ll find in a grocery store. Every June, Ontario’s strawberry farms throw open their gates for a few precious weeks — and if you time it right, you and your family can fill baskets with some of the freshest fruit of the year.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a romantic summer afternoon, or simply the best strawberries you’ve ever tasted, Ontario’s u-pick strawberry farms have you covered. This guide covers everything you need to know: when the season runs, what to bring, which regions have the most farms, and how to find one near you.

When Is Strawberry Picking Season in Ontario?

Ontario strawberry season typically runs from mid-June to mid-July, though this varies depending on the weather and the region. Here’s a general guide:

• Southern Ontario (Niagara, Halton, Hamilton): Season usually opens mid-June
• Central Ontario (Simcoe, Durham, Peel): Typically mid to late June
• Eastern Ontario (Ottawa, Lanark, Leeds & Grenville): Late June to early July
• Southwestern Ontario (Norfolk, Elgin, Middlesex): Mid-June

The season is short — most farms are only open for 3 to 5 weeks — so it pays to follow your local farm on social media for updates, or check back on this site regularly as we update farm listings throughout the season.

Pro Tip: Strawberry season can start up to two weeks early or late depending on spring temperatures. A warm May means an earlier season. Keep an eye on your local farm’s social media for opening day announcements!

Where to Go Strawberry Picking in Ontario

Ontario is blessed with strawberry farms spread across the province. Here are the best regions to explore, along with links to find farms near you:

Niagara Region

The Niagara Peninsula is one of Ontario’s most fruit-rich regions, and strawberries are no exception. With its long growing season and fertile soil, Niagara farms tend to be among the first to open each year. Pair your farm visit with a stop at a local winery or the Niagara-on-the-Lake farmers market for a full day out.

Find strawberry farms in Niagara County →  pickyourownontario.ca/category/niagara/

Simcoe County

Simcoe County is a hotspot for u-pick farms of all kinds, and strawberry season is no different. Located just north of the GTA, it’s a popular day-trip destination for Toronto-area families. The rolling countryside makes for a beautiful backdrop for a summer outing.

Find strawberry farms in Simcoe County →  pickyourownontario.ca/category/simcoe/

Durham Region

Durham is one of the easiest regions to reach from Toronto’s east end, with several u-pick strawberry farms scattered across Oshawa, Pickering, and the surrounding countryside. It’s a favourite for young families looking for a quick summer adventure without a long drive.

Find strawberry farms in Durham County →  pickyourownontario.ca/category/durham/

Norfolk County

Known as Ontario’s Garden, Norfolk County is a major agricultural hub with rich sandy soil that’s ideal for strawberry growing. If you’re in Southwestern Ontario, this is a must-visit region in June.

Find strawberry farms in Norfolk County →  pickyourownontario.ca/category/norfolk/

Ottawa & Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario has a thriving u-pick community, with farms in Ottawa, Lanark, Prescott & Russell, and Leeds & Grenville all offering strawberry picking. The season starts a little later here, usually late June, but the farms tend to be quieter and the experience more relaxed.

Find strawberry farms in Ottawa →  pickyourownontario.ca/category/ottawa/

What to Bring to a U-Pick Strawberry Farm

A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s what to pack for a successful strawberry picking trip:

• Containers or baskets — most farms provide picking containers, but you’ll want extra buckets or coolers to bring your haul home
• Sunscreen and a hat — strawberry rows are open fields with little shade, and June sun can be intense
• Water — picking is more active than it looks, especially with kids in tow
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes — farm fields can be muddy or uneven
• Cash — many smaller farms are cash only
• A cooler or insulated bag — fresh-picked strawberries are delicate and should be kept cool on the drive home

Tips for Picking the Best Strawberries

• Go early — morning is the best time to pick. The berries are cool, the farm is less crowded, and the rows are freshly ripe
• Look for deep red colour all the way to the tip — pale tips mean the berry isn’t fully ripe
• Smell before you pick — a ripe strawberry has a strong, sweet fragrance you can’t miss
• Twist, don’t pull — grasp the stem just above the berry and gently twist. This avoids bruising the fruit
• Pick in single layers — stacking berries in a deep container bruises the ones on the bottom
• Don’t over-pick — fresh strawberries last only 2–3 days in the fridge. Pick what you’ll eat and freeze the rest

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Picking in Ontario

How much does u-pick strawberry picking cost in Ontario?

Most farms charge by weight, typically ranging from $3.50 to $6.00 per pound. Some farms offer flat-rate basket pricing. It’s almost always cheaper than buying berries at a store, and far more fun!

Do I need to book ahead for strawberry picking?

Some farms require reservations, especially on weekends. Always check the farm’s website or social media before heading out — openings can change day to day based on crop conditions.

Can I bring my dog to a strawberry farm?

Policies vary by farm. Some welcome leashed dogs, others don’t allow pets for food safety reasons. Always check before you go.

How long does strawberry picking season last in Ontario?

Most farms offer a 3 to 5 week window, typically from mid-June to mid-July. The exact timing depends heavily on spring weather — a warm May can push the season earlier, while a cool spring delays it.

What do I do with all the strawberries I pick?

Fresh strawberries last 2–3 days in the fridge. For larger hauls, strawberries freeze beautifully — wash, hull, and lay flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to bags. They’re perfect for smoothies, jams, and baking all year long.

Ready to Find a Strawberry Farm Near You?

Ontario has dozens of u-pick strawberry farms from Windsor to Ottawa and everywhere in between. Use our farm finder to search by county and find a farm near you — complete with addresses, hours, and what’s available to pick.

Find a U-Pick Strawberry Farm Near You →

And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @upickontario and Pinterest @upickontario for daily farm updates, seasonal tips, and all things u-pick Ontario!

Don’t see your region listed? Browse all Ontario counties in our farm finder — we have listings province-wide!