Sweet Grown Alabama Blogs

Imagine looking outside your window and seeing vibrant rows of crops and flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. The bright blue sky is dotted with scattered white clouds, and the sun casts a warm, golden glow. You’re looking forward to spending quality time outside with your loved ones, recharging and appreciating nature without a strict timetable.

Did you know that a visit to a local farm doesn’t have to be a quick day trip? You can stay overnight and immerse yourself in the rich experiences and local flavors that Alabama agritourism farms have to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, a trip to an Alabama farm can be a refreshing twist on your annual family vacation.

Photo courtesy of Sullivan Creek Ranch

Alabama farms provide a wealth of activities to help you reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. You might learn how to work with cattle and horses, walk along scenic trails, fish in tranquil ponds, or explore beautiful waterfalls. Fruit-picking during the harvest season is also a popular option, allowing you to enjoy the freshest produce right from the source.

As the sun sets, gather around a fire, savoring locally grown foods and sharing stories with your loved ones or newfound friends. Many farms offer daily activities that allow visitors to meet each other, creating not just memories, but friendships that can last a lifetime.

Experience the Cowboy Culture at Sullivan Creek Ranch

One standout destination is Sullivan Creek Ranch in Vinemont, where the owners aim to provide a welcoming space to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Emily Anderson of Sullivan Creek Ranch explains, “We hope guests come out and get to rest, unplug from the world, and discover a culture they may not have even known existed in north Alabama.”

The ranch recently reopened after extensive remodeling, transforming their historic Trading Post store into a cozy retreat accommodating up to four guests. Plans are in place to expand, adding another room for six more. Guests can watch cowboys at work, explore scenic trails, and even engage in catch-and-release fishing.

Evenings at Sullivan Creek Ranch are perfect for unwinding by the fire pit and soaking in the stunning sunsets. Anderson notes the unique experiences guests have shared: “We’ve had impromptu dinners with guests who became friends from Patagonia and watched a family from Sicily learn to rope.”

Photo courtesy of the Alabama Farmers Federation

For those traveling in RVs, Harvest Hosts offers a unique experience for overnight stays on Alabama farms. This network connects RVers with farms, wineries, and other unique locations where they can camp overnight in exchange for purchasing local goods and experiences.

HD Farm in Eastaboga is a wonderful example of a Harvest Hosts location. Since joining the program in 2021, HD Farm has welcomed guests from across the United States and beyond. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery, stroll along the creek, pick sunflowers, and purchase pasture-raised lamb. Co-owner Henry Dorough emphasizes the educational aspect of their farm. “We like the idea of having people come to our farm to learn about agriculture,” Dorough said. 

Another great option is Rock House Farms, which went live on the Harvest Hosts platform in 2022. Co-owner Karah Skinner describes it as a peaceful retreat “off in the woods of Alabama,” allowing guests to relax amidst the sounds of nature and the sight of livestock.

Guests have shared heartwarming experiences from their stays at these Alabama farms. Bob Jaskiewicz, who stayed at Sullivan Creek Ranch, noted the convenience and comfort of camping there.

“Our 45-foot diesel pusher motor coach fit easily on the property. The hosts were very nice and friendly. This is a true gem and will be a regular stop," said Jaskiewicz. 

Similarly, Bethany Nichols, a guest at Rock House Farms, raved about the freshness of their pork breakfast sausage, which she used in a breakfast casserole.

“You can tell by the texture of the meat how clean and fresh it is," Nichols raved. 

Is an elegant adults-only trip in your future? Travelers can "stay and sip" at several wineries across the state. Junavelli Winery in Brewton can be found through Harvest Hosts. You don't have to hop on a plane to experience a beautiful rolling hill winery view, but instead you can RV camp directly on a farm here in Sweet Home Alabama! With over 223 reviews and a 4.87 star rating, it's obvious that hundreds of travelers have enjoyed experiencing Alabama agritourism firsthand at Junavelli Winery. 

"Savor the flavors, share stories under the stars, and let this destination add a refined touch to your road trip adventure," said the Junavelli Winery Harvest Hosts listing, which sums up this adventure beautifully! 

Likewise, Jules Berta Winery & Pizzeria in Albertville is a wonderful spot to rest your head. Whether you're an aficionado or a casual sipper, their RV camping spot offers a serene setting to relax, socialize, and forge fond memories with every glass raised. Embrace the authentic vineyard lifestyle, where every moment is ripe for enjoyment and every sip is a toast to the art of winemaking.

More widely known, Airbnb is a vacation rental company that offers short-term and long-term homestays. Sweet Grown Alabama members have been taking advantage of this online booking website to offer customers a night or two on the farm with all the amenities of home.

The Rock House at Nances Creek Farms is a quaint and cozy hideaway with all the modern amenities. Located in a rural farming community just east of Jacksonville, the cottage is the perfect place to rest, relax, and get away from it all! Host Scott Dothard highlighted the recent renovations.

"This cottage has been a hub for our farming operations for years, we are now able to share with people our slice of paradise," he said. 

A similar option is Hubert Family Farms, located in New Market. Host Kaylee Hubert describes it as a refreshing getaway “secluded enough to not feel crowded, but only 15 minutes to downtown Huntsville,” allowing guests to relax in a farm style studio with views of a tractor out your window.

The experiences offered by Alabama farms are not just enjoyable; they are transformative. Now is the perfect time to break away from traditional family vacations. Consider a farm stay for yourself, where you can enjoy the beauty of the countryside, engage in unique activities, and create memories with your family that you’ll cherish forever.

Whether you’re drawn by the allure of cowboy culture, the thrill of farm life, or simply the chance to unwind in nature, Alabama’s agritourism scene invites you to experience a different side of vacationing—one that celebrates community, connection, and the joys of agriculture.

Learn more about staying at Sullivan Creek Ranch here. 

Learn more about the Harvest Host program and HD Farm, Rock House Farms, Junavelli Winery and Jules Berta Winery & Pizzeria locations here. 

Learn more about The Rock House at Nances Creek Farm here. 

Learn more about staying at Hubert Family Farms here.