Slowly, slowly, our state is re-opening. State parks are opening with attendance restrictions, preserves are once again available, and people are taking advantage of the wonderful weather to get some exercise and Vitamin D. But if you want an adventure that’s DELICIOUS as well as relaxing and recharging, check out Bear Tracks Blackberry Farm.
Located on the outskirts of Eustis just far enough off of Highway 44A that you won’t hear the road noise once you park, this small family farm provides beautiful blackberries on thornless canes. Eric and Anna Thompson have a knack for berries, apparently, because the plants are healthy and currently covered in berries at all stages of ripeness. I’ve never seen such thick healthy blackberry canes! Four rows were open for picking when Steve and I visited recently, with many more rows blooming for future picking opportunities. Currently, the farm allows picking by appointment only. You can find them here or better yet, just call them at 407-840-4232. If you love blackberries but don’t like picking your own fruit, Anna will pick the berries for you, but you’ll be missing out on a lovely experience.
In about 30 leisurely minutes, we had picked 6 pounds of berries for blackberry bourbon jam and cobbler. As we picked, we chatted and enjoyed feeling the sun warming the cool morning and listening to the birds. I’ll tell you that there is nothing like sun-warmed blackberries for breakfast!
As we got into the car, I spilled one of my berry boxes, so I got to pick those berries again. Even after their tumble, they were still delicious. Leaving the farm, we enjoyed watching Anna and Eric’s grandkids swinging in the tree by the gate. A lovely morning, a lovely family, and truly lovely blackberries.
Fun!! There are so many little farms out by us, and I keep hearing about new ones!
Thanks for sharing this! I haven’t heard of this place, and now I can’t wait to give it a try. One of my favorite things about living on acreage near Ocala was having wild (not thornless, lol) blackberries all over our fences. They were glorious!
I picked blackberries as a kid with my dad. He made preserves, jelly, pie, and wine. I still love the taste of blackberries, brings back happy memories. We have a farm up here where we can pick blueberries, but it’s not quite the same.
Sounds like a great family bonding time! I love blackberries and this would be a nice activity. What will you be making with them?
I have made several cobblers, a bunch of blackberry bourbon jam, and I have eaten quarts just out of hand. I’m dehydrating some to make powder that I can use in smoothies and water. I do not think ANYTHING says summer like blackberries!
I remember going out and picking blackberries when I was a kid. Always a lot of fun. If I ever get out by Eustis, I’ll have to stop by this farm.
What a great way to have an afternoon with the family and get some delicious fresh food at the same time! Did you have some with ice cream?
Even better…I made a cobbler and we enjoyed that with Tillamook Vanilla Bean ice cream. Mmmmmm!