It’s summertime, and that means fresh blueberries on the South Coast of Oregon! There are plenty of convenient places to buy these beauties, but there’s nothing like going out into the rows yourself with a bucket and a hat and coming out with gallons of deliciousness. Fortunately, blueberry picking in Bandon is fun and easy!

The blueberry season typically coincides with the 4th of July season, and those who take advantage of it are in for a treat. It’s a good idea to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water so you can pick as much as you want without getting too much sun. At the parking area will be a booth where you will begin. Buckets are provided for you, and you will be told just which rows are being picked that day. After that, you’re free to pick to your heart’s content! Look for berries that are a nice dark blue without any green or red on them.

Stop by the booth again on your way out to have your berries weighed and the price calculated. Many farms provide boxes for you to take your berries home, but it’s not a bad idea to bring your own boxes, freezer bags, or container. People often pick more than they think they will, so be prepared to take home a bunch!

South of town, pickers will find Twin Creek Ranch on Cranberry Creek Lane, about 5 miles away, and Valentine Blueberries on Sydnam Lane, a 10 mile drive. On the north side is Blueberry Hill on Prosper Junction Road, only a few miles from town.

The northwest has a perfect climate for blueberries to grow. The winter chills and mild yet sunny climates conspire to make some of the plumpest, sweetest berries in the country. The coast has a particularly friendly climate as it is generally wetter than the Willamette Valley and other places inland, and farmers have to irrigate their fields much less.

If you don’t feel like picking your own, that’s OK; fresh pre-picked berries are usually available for purchase as well.

Although the season lasts for several weeks, it doesn’t last forever, so get out there while the picking is good!