South Haven calls itself the Blueberry Capital of the World, and July is when you see why. The bushes are loaded, the farm stands are open and blueberries end up in just about everything. It is the sweetest month of the year around here.
If you are visiting this month, plan at least one morning in the rows. Here are the farms I would start with. A few are right near South Haven, and a few are a short drive up the shore.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: What Ripens When: The U-Pick Calendar
Where I Would Pick Blueberries
1) DeGrandchamp Farms
DeGrandchamp Farms in South Haven grows blueberries in summer and holds the cranberry harvest in October. That second season is a fun reason to come back in the fall.
For July, though, it is all about the berries.
It is a farm worth knowing about all year, not just in July, since the cranberry harvest gives you a reason for a fall visit.
2) Joe's Blues
Joe's Blues in Bangor has organic u-pick blueberries, June through August. If organic matters to you, this is your stop.
Go early in the day, before the heat.
The season runs a little longer here, so it is a good option if your trip falls in June or August.
3) True Blue Farms
True Blue Farms in Grand Junction has u-pick blueberries, a farm store and ice cream. That is a full morning in one place.
Pick, shop and finish with a cone. Kids will be on board.
If you are staying inland near Grand Junction, this is the easy one to add to your week.
READ: The National Blueberry Festival in South Haven
4) Bowerman's Blueberries
Bowerman's Blueberries in Holland is my pick for summer blueberry picking near Holland. Don't skip the blueberry donuts.
Honestly, the donuts might be the main event.
If you are staying in Holland, this is the closest picking trip for your family.
5) Reenders Blueberry Farm
Reenders Blueberry Farm in West Olive has classic u-pick rows, plus frozen berries and pies all year. So even if you miss picking season, you can still take a little blueberry country home.
A pie for the house is never a bad idea.
It is a good choice for a quick stop near West Olive, especially if you are staying near Grand Haven.
Blueberry season is short and sweet, so plan for it. Check each farm's picking conditions before you head out, and bring something to carry your haul home. Containers, sunscreen and a hat go a long way.
South Haven Hilltop Farm House is in the heart of blueberry country. Come stay with us and pick your way through July.
More favorites in my South Haven area guide.