Critzer Family Farm
A Local’s Guide to Critzer Family Farm in Afton, VA
Your go-to spot for berry picking, ice cream, and good old-fashioned fun in Nelson County
I’ve lived in the Afton area for more than a decade now, and let me tell you—Critzer Family Farm is one of those places that just feels like home. Whether I’m grabbing the first strawberries of the season, wandering the peach orchard with my kids, or pulling off Route 151 on a hot July day just for their homemade ice cream, this farm is a local gem I keep coming back to again and again.
If you’re looking for berry picking in Nelson County, VA, or just wondering "Is Critzer Family Farm open?", this guide will give you the inside scoop—plus some fun stories, pro tips, and helpful info to plan your visit.
Getting There: Easy & Scenic
Critzer Family Farm is right off Route 151, just a few minutes down from some of the area’s best wineries and breweries. If you’re coming from Charlottesville, it’s about a 35-minute drive. And if you’re taking the scenic route along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’re only about 15 minutes away—just hop off at Reeds Gap or Love and head east.
Address: 9388 Critzer Shop Rd, Afton, VA 22920
Pro tip: If you're using GPS, make sure it doesn’t try to reroute you through any wild backroads—Critzer Shop Road is the main entrance you want.
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Hours & Seasonal Info
So, when is Critzer Family Farm open for the season? Generally, the farm kicks off in early May, starting with strawberries, and runs through October, closing after pumpkin season. Hours can vary depending on what’s in season, but here’s a rough guide:
Typical Hours
Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed on Sundays (a nice touch that reflects their family values)
Seasonal Highlights
Strawberries: May–June
Cherries: Mid-June
Peaches: July–August
Blackberries & Raspberries: Mid-summer
Pumpkins & Apples: September–October
Call ahead or check their Facebook page to make sure your favorite crop is in before you go.
What Makes Critzer Family Farm So Special
This isn’t just a farm—it’s a family experience. You’ll often see Mr. Critzer himself walking the rows, chatting with customers. I once asked him for peach storage tips, and he gave me a whole lecture (in the best way) about how to keep them from bruising and when they taste best. It’s that kind of personal touch that makes Critzer different.
They’ve got a gorgeous U-Pick setup, and the rows are kept clean and walkable. I brought my toddlers last year for berry picking, and even my youngest—barely old enough to walk—was able to toddle between rows without tripping over weeds.
And the ice cream stand? It’s the stuff of local legend. My favorite is the fresh peach ice cream in August—it actually tastes like biting into a cold peach on a hot day.
Insider Tips from a Local
Don’t wait too long for strawberries - They open the fields when the berries are ripe, and they go fast—especially on Saturdays. If you can swing it, go early on a weekday morning to beat the crowds and get the best picks.
Bring your own containers - They do offer containers, but if you’re planning to go big, bringing your own helps cut down on waste (and keeps your berries from getting squished).
Wear a hat & sunscreen - There’s not much shade in the fields, and summer sun gets intense.
Ask for the “ugly peaches” - Sometimes they sell discounted seconds—slightly bruised or weird-looking peaches that are still perfect for baking or freezing. I make a killer cobbler with them every August.
Great for field trips & family outings - If you’re looking for Critzer Family Farm field trip options, they offer educational tours. My kids’ preschool group went last fall and got to pick pumpkins, learn about bees, and even ride a tractor.
Critzer Family Farm Events
While Critzer Family Farm isn't a massive commercial attraction with a packed calendar, the events they do host are all about authenticity, family, and celebrating the seasons. Think less “theme park” and more “front-porch hospitality”—the kind of experiences that make lasting memories.
Pumpkin Patch Weekends (October)
Every fall, the farm comes alive with classic autumn charm. On weekends in October, families flock to the fields to pick out their perfect pumpkins—from tiny table-top gourds to big, bumpy jack-o’-lantern contenders. There are hayrides, cornstalk photo ops, and plenty of seasonal treats. Kids love the simple fun, and parents appreciate the peaceful, no-hype vibe. Pro tip: go early in the day to get the best pumpkins before they’re picked over.
Peach Festival Saturdays (Late July)
If you’ve never had peach ice cream made with fruit picked that morning, you’re in for a treat. During peak peach season, usually in late July, Critzer hosts laid-back Saturday celebrations that often feature live local music, food trucks, and fresh peach everything. It's the kind of event where you can sip a lemonade, tap your foot to a bluegrass band, and wander through rows of glowing fruit. It's low-key but packed with summer spirit.
Farm Education Days & Field Trips
Throughout the spring and fall, Critzer welcomes school groups and homeschool families for guided farm tours. These Farm Education Days are hands-on, informative, and fun—perfect for curious kids (and grown-ups). Children get to learn how food is grown, meet pollinators like honeybees, and even pick their own produce. It’s one of the most popular field trip destinations in Nelson County, and a favorite among teachers who want their students to get a taste of real farm life.
Critzer may not host huge crowds or flashy festivals, but what they offer is something much more special: simple, joyful gatherings that highlight the beauty of the seasons, the bounty of the land, and the warmth of community. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates and announcements as event dates approach.
15 Fun Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Critzer Family Farm
The farm has been family-owned for five generations.
They grow five different types of peaches—each with its own flavor profile.
The farm sits on a ridge that gives it excellent drainage, which helps with fruit quality.
Critzer’s strawberries are planted in plasticulture beds, which keeps them cleaner and helps ripen earlier.
They make their ice cream in small batches using fruit from their own fields.
The farm started as an apple orchard in the early 1900s.
They use drip irrigation to conserve water and deliver nutrients directly to the roots.
Their pumpkins are pollinated by bees from hives kept on the property.
The farm doesn’t use synthetic pesticides on U-Pick fruit, especially in kid-friendly zones.
Critzer is one of the oldest working farms in Nelson County.
The soil is naturally acidic, making it perfect for growing berries.
They partner with local schools for agriculture education programs.
The cherry trees are dwarf varieties, so kids can reach them too.
They offer homemade jams and salsas in the farm store, made from surplus crops.
The farm is surrounded by gorgeous mountain views, perfect for photos.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking for a fun afternoon with the kids, a fresh scoop of summer ice cream, or the juiciest berries in Nelson County, Critzer Family Farm in Afton, VA is a must-visit. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down, breathe deep, and remember how good the simple things can be.
So grab a sunhat, bring a cooler, and I’ll see you in the strawberry fields.
FAQ: Everything You Want to Know About Critzer Family Farm
When is Critzer Family Farm open for the season?
Usually May through October, with strawberries starting in early May. Check their Facebook page for real-time updates.
Is Critzer Family Farm open right now?
They’re seasonal, so hours change—best to call or check their social media before heading out.
What events are held at Critzer Family Farm?
Peach days, pumpkin weekends, and field trips. No giant festivals, but lots of authentic family fun.
How far is Critzer Family Farm from Charlottesville?
About 35 minutes by car. A straight shot west down I-64, then south on Route 151.
How far is Critzer Family Farm from the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Roughly 15 minutes from the Reeds Gap entrance—perfect for a detour during a scenic drive.
Can I bring my dog?
Nope—leave your furry friends at home. It’s a working farm, and pets aren’t allowed in the fields.
Do they accept credit cards?
Yes, though I always bring a little cash just in case their card reader acts up in the mountain signal zone.
Is there food available?
Besides the ice cream (a must!), they sometimes have snacks or local products. But no full meals—pack a picnic or head to Blue Mountain Brewery down the road afterward.
Can I book a field trip?
Yes! Schools and groups can arrange educational visits by calling ahead. It’s a hit with local classrooms.
Is the farm stroller-friendly?
Yes! The rows are wide and flat enough for most strollers—just be ready for a little dust or dirt.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Depends on what you want—strawberries in May, peaches in July, pumpkins in October. I go every season!
Do they have bathrooms?
Yes—clean porta-potties and a handwashing station.
Can I take photos?
Absolutely! It’s a gorgeous setting, especially during golden hour in the peach orchard.
Do they spray their fruit?
They follow eco-friendly farming practices, especially in the U-Pick areas, but it's not a certified organic farm.
Can I freeze what I pick?
Definitely. I freeze berries every year for smoothies and cobblers. Just wash, dry, and bag.
