Discovering Unger Farms: A Berry Lover’s Paradise in Oregon
One of the many joys of living in Oregon is the incredible accessibility to diverse landscapes. Within a short drive, you can find yourself on pristine beaches, surrounded by majestic mountains, exploring the vast desert, or immersed in the heart of rich farmland. This proximity to nature’s bounty makes Oregon a truly special place to call home.
The abundance of Oregon’s fertile farmland, particularly its exceptional berries, was celebrated at the 2014 Oregon Berry Festival. As part of a media tour during the festival, our group had the delightful opportunity to visit Unger Farms, located in Cornelius, Oregon. This visit provided a firsthand look at the dedication and passion that goes into producing some of the finest berries and produce in the state.
Unger Farms, as proudly displayed on their sign, was established in 1984 and has been serving the community with fresh, high-quality produce for decades. They celebrated their 30th anniversary in 2014, a testament to their commitment and enduring success.
Like many successful Oregon farms, Unger Farms is a family affair. Matt and Kathy Unger lead the operations, and their passion for farming is evident in every aspect of the business. Now, their four children, along with their spouses, actively participate in the farm’s daily operations. During our visit, their daughter Laura graciously provided a tour of the property, sharing the rich history of the farm and offering insights into their future vision. Her enthusiasm and knowledge were truly inspiring.
Nestled on 144 acres approximately 45 minutes west of Portland, Oregon, Unger Farms presents a picturesque landscape. The property features a tranquil lake, gently rolling fields, a welcoming picnic area, and a fun children’s playground. This idyllic setting provides a perfect backdrop for a day of exploring and enjoying the beauty of Oregon’s agricultural heartland. It is more than just a farm; it’s a place where families can connect with nature and appreciate the hard work that goes into growing fresh, delicious food.
The atmosphere at Unger Farms is undeniably serene, offering breathtaking views that stretch across the surrounding countryside. The combination of the natural beauty and the welcoming atmosphere makes it a truly special destination for visitors of all ages.
A Bounty of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Unger Farms cultivates a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, offering something for everyone. Their commitment to quality and freshness is evident in the variety of crops they produce. You can find their products at over 18 farmers markets each week, as well as in select grocery stores throughout the region. This widespread availability makes it easy to enjoy the delicious bounty of Unger Farms, no matter where you are located.
Among their impressive selection, you can typically find Albion strawberries, known for their extended growing season, Polka raspberries, with their vibrant color and intense flavor, Red Flame seedless grapes, perfect for snacking, rhubarb, ideal for pies and jams, as well as a variety of vegetables including potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, and broccoli. The exact selection may vary depending on the season, but you can always expect the highest quality and freshest flavors.
Albion Strawberries: Extending the Strawberry Season
If you thought you had missed your chance to enjoy fresh Oregon strawberries this year, think again! Unger Farms specializes in growing Albion strawberries, a variety that continues to thrive well beyond the traditional Oregon strawberry season. These remarkable berries can continue to grow into September and even early October, allowing everyone to savor the taste of Oregon strawberries for a longer period. Don’t let the extended season fool you; Albion strawberries are just as juicy, sweet, and flavorful as other popular Oregon varieties. They are a testament to Unger Farms’ commitment to providing fresh, delicious berries for as long as possible.
The Unger Farms Store: A Treasure Trove of Local Goods
In addition to their fresh produce, Unger Farms also produces its own delicious jams, crafted with the very berries they grow. These homemade jams, along with a curated selection of locally made wines, artisanal food products, and charming merchandise, are available for purchase in their on-site farm store. The store is a delightful destination for anyone looking to support local businesses and discover unique, handcrafted items.
Among the many charming items available in the store, the “Farmer in Training” onesie is particularly adorable and hard to resist! It’s the perfect gift for any little one with a budding interest in agriculture.
Beyond the jams, wines, and merchandise, you can also indulge in refreshing strawberry lemonade and other beverages, along with a selection of tasty pastries. The store also features a separate section dedicated to charming kitchen and dining room decor, making it a one-stop shop for unique gifts and home accessories. A visit to the Unger Farms store is definitely worth your time, offering a delightful blend of local flavor and handcrafted charm.
Plan Your Visit to Unger Farms
As a longtime advocate for supporting local family farms, I am always thrilled to discover new ones, and Oregon is brimming with exceptional farms like Unger Farms! I am incredibly grateful to the Oregon Berry Festival organizers for introducing Unger Farms to our media group. Their dedication to providing fresh, high-quality produce and fostering a connection with the community is truly commendable. They also host a variety of engaging events throughout the year, so be sure to follow them on Facebook to stay updated on the latest happenings.
Unger Farms is more than just a farm; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to connect with nature, support local agriculture, and enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh, delicious food. Whether you’re a berry enthusiast, a supporter of local businesses, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Unger Farms has something to offer everyone.
Here’s how to find them:
34880 SW Johnson School Road
Cornelius, OR 97113
971-285-7507
http://ungerfarms.com/
Hours:
Closed Monday
Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Make sure to check their website or Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on hours, events, and product availability before planning your visit. Unger Farms is a true gem of the Oregon agricultural landscape, and a visit is sure to be a memorable experience.