One of the sweetest ways to savor the end of summer in Oregon is with a basket full of fresh blackberries. These plump, sun‑kissed berries are a late‑season treat, and August is the perfect time to gather them straight from the vine. Whether you’re craving a family adventure or just looking to stock up for pies, jams, or smoothies, the Portland area is full of great blackberry‑picking spots.
Why Blackberries?
Blackberries are one of Oregon’s signature crops. They thrive in the Willamette Valley’s warm days and cool nights, making them juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—toss them into salads, bake them into cobblers, or freeze them for a taste of summer long after the season ends.
Top Blackberry U-Pick Spots Near Portland
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Smith Berry Barn – Sherwood, OR
This beloved farm has an incredible selection of berries, including thornless blackberry varieties. Their U-pick fields are easy to access, and you can also pick up farm‑fresh produce, plants, and gourmet goods from their market.
Website: smithberrybarn.com -
Columbia Farms – Sauvie Island, OR
Just 30 minutes from downtown Portland, Sauvie Island is a U-pick paradise. Columbia Farms offers acres of blackberry fields (plus blueberries, peaches, and flowers). Bring a picnic and make a day of it.
Website: columbiafarmsu-pick.com -
Bella Organic Farm – Sauvie Island, OR
Also on Sauvie Island, Bella Organic offers certified organic blackberries, plus family‑friendly extras like a petting zoo and food trucks. It’s a perfect spot for kids and adults alike.
Website: bellaorganic.com -
Hoffman Farms Store – Beaverton, OR
Known for its expansive berry fields and freshly baked pies, Hoffman Farms is a convenient stop for families west of Portland. Their thornless blackberries are ideal for little hands to pick.
Website: hoffmanfarmsstore.com -
Rowell Bros. Berry Farm – Hillsboro, OR
This family‑owned farm has been around since the late 1800s! Their blackberry fields are easy to navigate, and the farmstand is stocked with all kinds of seasonal goodies.
Website: rowellbrosberryfarm.com
Tips for a Perfect Blackberry-Picking Day
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Go early: Mornings are cooler, and the berries are firmer and easier to handle.
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Bring your own containers: Many farms allow you to bring buckets or boxes, though some provide containers for a small fee.
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Dress for the fields: Closed‑toe shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are a must.
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Pick the plumpest berries: Fully black, shiny berries come off the vine easily and have the best flavor.
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Call ahead: U-pick availability changes daily, especially in August as the season winds down.
Make it a Tradition
Blackberry picking is more than just gathering fruit—it’s about creating sweet summer memories. Whether you’re on a solo trip, with friends, or bringing the whole family, the fields near Portland offer the perfect way to slow down and enjoy Oregon’s natural bounty.
So grab your buckets and hit the fields—those juicy blackberries won’t pick themselves!
