Your guide to U-Pick Strawberry Spots Near Rockford, MI

Looking for the sweetest day trip from Rockford? 🍓 Here’s your guide to u-pick strawberry spots! June is prime strawberry-picking season in West Michigan, and there are several excellent farms near Rockford, MI, where you can enjoy this family-friendly activity. Here's a curated list of local U-pick strawberry farms to consider:

1. Krupp Farms: Krupp offers U-pick strawberries from early to mid-June. The farm also features a petting zoo, ice cream shop, and playground making it a great destination for families. Krupp Farms is a fourth-generation centennial farm, located just north of Grand Rapids in Comstock Park, MI on Krupp Avenue. Although Krupp Farms started as a strawberry farm, they now offer asparagus, peaches, sweet corn and red and black raspberries as well.

   • Address: 8025 Krupp Ave NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321

   • Phone: (616) 887-8271

2. Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm: The farm offers U-pick strawberries by appointment through their website. They also have a market and host various seasonal summer events. Make a U-pick appointment here.

   • Address: 3025 6 Mile Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544

   • Phone: (616) 784-0058

3. Bird Berry Farm: Bird Berry Farm is located in Belding Michigan. They offer u-pick or buy already picked berries. At Bird Berry Farm their picking season usually runs from June – early August of each year. The picking season really depends on the weather and how quickly their fruit is picked. If you have any questions or need to know their current open and close times, please check out their Facebook page. Updates are posted there for customers to see.

   • Address: 5256 Belding Rd, Belding, MI 48809

   • Phone: (616) 370-2444

4. Hanulcik Farm Market & Orchard: Reopening for the 2025 season in early/mid June starting with STRAWBERRY SEASON (fresh picked and pick your own). Opening date to be announced late May/early June. Please watch their Facebook page for info on our reopening and for upcoming fruit harvest schedules. Their website is packed with information and other farm offerings, so make sure you check it out!

   • Address: 47 Dildine Rd, Ionia, MI 48846

   • Phone: (616) 527-3630

5. Morse Brothers Farm: Known for their fresh Michigan strawberries in June & July. Follow their Facebook page for updates!

   • Address: 5032 Peach Ridge Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544

   • Phone: (616) 784-4776

Tips for a Successful Strawberry Picking Experience:

• Call Ahead or Check Online: Farm schedules can vary based on weather and berry availability. It's best to call ahead or check the farm's website or social media for the latest information.

• Bring Appropriate Containers: Some farms provide containers, while others may require you to bring your own or purchase them on-site.

• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking through fields. Consider bringing sunscreen and hats for sun protection, water, and closed toe shoes.

• Payment Methods: Some farms may accept only cash or checks, while others might accept cards. It's advisable to check their accepted payment methods in advance.

Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam (No Pectin)

Yields: About 2 small jars (1 ½ cups total)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best!)

Instructions:

1. Mash the Strawberries:
   Place the chopped strawberries in a medium saucepan. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth — your choice!).

2. Add Sugar + Lemon Juice:
   Stir in the sugar and lemon juice until well combined.

3. Cook the Jam:
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently and let it cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until it thickens.
   👉 Test doneness: Drag a spoon across the bottom — if it parts like the Red Sea and doesn’t immediately flood back, it’s done!

4. Cool & Store:
   Let cool slightly, then transfer to clean jars. Once fully cooled, store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips:

• Want a thicker jam? Simmer a bit longer.

• Want to skip refined sugar? Sub in honey or maple syrup to taste.

• Great on toast, pancakes, yogurt, or over ice cream!

Enjoy your strawberry picking adventure in West Michigan!