There are a lot of things I love about fall, but visiting pumpkin patches in Springfield, MO is definitely near the top of the list. The cooler weather finally shows up, the leaves start changing, and my kids start asking almost every weekend if we’re going to pick out pumpkins yet. As a family photographer, fall is my absolute favorite season for outdoor sessions.
Over the years we’ve learned that every pumpkin patch is a little different. Some are perfect if you have toddlers who just want to pet animals and ride the hayride. Others are packed with activities that can easily keep older kids busy for an entire afternoon.
I asked local parents to share their favorite pumpkin patches near Springfield, and after hundreds of recommendations, these were the places that came up over and over again. Between photo sessions, I love hearing which patches families visit each year.
If you’re planning a fall family outing this year, you really can’t go wrong with any of these.
Best Pumpkin Patches in Springfield MO
1. Rutledge Wilson Farm Park
If you’ve lived around Springfield for very long, you’ve probably heard someone recommend Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park.
It’s one of our family’s favorite places to visit in the fall because there’s enough to do without feeling overwhelming. My kids especially love visiting the pumpkin patch, riding the hayride, and seeing the farm animals before we head home with our pumpkins.
They also usually offer both a family-friendly corn maze and a haunted corn maze for older kids and adults, plus seasonal food and drinks that make it feel like a full afternoon instead of just a quick stop.
Best for: Families with toddlers through elementary-aged kids looking for a classic fall experience close to Springfield.
2. Campbell’s Maze Daze in Clever
Campbell’s Maze Daze was one of the most recommended pumpkin patches near Springfield, MO, and after looking at everything they offer, it’s easy to see why.
Besides their pumpkin patch, they usually have both kid-friendly and haunted corn mazes, scavenger hunts, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, bonfires, karaoke, magic shows, and plenty of activities throughout the day.
If your kids love having lots to do instead of simply picking out a pumpkin, this would be a great choice.
Best for: Families wanting a full day of fall activities.
3. Pickin’ Patch Farm in Marionville, Missouri
If you’re looking for a smaller, more relaxed pumpkin patch, Pickin’ Patch Farm is worth the drive.
Families can enjoy the pumpkin patch, hayrides, and several seasonal attractions that change each year. It’s one of those places that feels a little slower paced while still giving kids plenty to enjoy.
Best for: Families looking for a quieter pumpkin patch experience.
4. Hampton Corn Maze in Marshfield, MO
Hampton Corn Maze is another great fall destination just outside Springfield.
Along with their corn maze, they typically have a pumpkin patch, hayrides, wagon rides, barrel rides for younger kids, and beautiful fall decorations throughout the property.
If your family loves spending time outdoors during the fall, this is an easy place to spend a few hours.
Best for: Families who love corn mazes and classic fall activities.
5. Exeter Corn Maze
If your family likes to make a whole day out of visiting a pumpkin patch, Exeter Corn Maze has just about everything.
Besides the pumpkin patch itself, they offer activities like pumpkin jumps, duck races, petting zoo, giant slides, hayrides, gem mining, barrel train rides, paintball, zip lines, pedal carts, face painting, pumpkin cannons, and more.
For older kids and teens, they also have haunted attractions including zombie paintball, haunted barns, and haunted corn mazes later in the season.
It’s definitely one of the biggest fall attractions on this list.
Best for: Families with kids of different ages who want lots of activities in one place.
6. Shepherd Of The Hills Pumpkin Fest in Branson
If you’re already planning a trip to Branson this fall, don’t skip PumpkinFest at Shepherd of the Hills.
This isn’t just a pumpkin patch—it’s more like an entire fall festival. Families can enjoy the pumpkin patch along with bounce houses, mini golf, petting zoo, pumpkin painting, ropes course, playgrounds, tunnel slides, hayrides, rock climbing wall, and even the Copperhead Mountain Coaster.
It’s a fun option if you’re planning a full day in Branson during the fall season.
Best for: Families planning a Branson day trip.
Which of These Pumpkin Patches in Springfield MO Should You Choose?
Honestly, I don’t think there’s a wrong answer.
If you have younger kids, I’d probably start with Rutledge-Wilson because it’s close to Springfield and easy to navigate.
If your kids want nonstop activities, Campbell’s Maze Daze or Exeter Corn Maze are hard to beat.
And if you’re already spending a weekend in Branson, Shepherd of the Hills PumpkinFest is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
No matter which pumpkin patch in Springfield, MO you choose, I hope your family has as much fun making fall memories as mine always does.
Thinking About Fall Family Photos?
Pumpkin patches are one of my favorite ways to kick off the fall season with my own family, and as a Springfield family photographer, I spend a lot of October out in the patch with clients too.
If you’re hoping to capture this season with updated family photos, fall is also one of the busiest times of year for photography in Springfield. The Ozarks are beautiful once the leaves start changing, and it’s one of my favorite seasons for relaxed family sessions.
I’ll help you with everything—from choosing the perfect location to coordinating outfits (and yes, you can borrow pieces from my motherhood client closet).
I’d love to help you preserve this season before it slips by. As a maternity photographer, newborn photographer, and family photographer here in Springfield, I get to document all of fall’s sweetest moments.
Looking for More Fall Fun?
If you’re planning more fall adventures around Springfield, you might also enjoy:
- Top Fall Activities in Springfield, MO
- Top Corn Mazes in Springfield, MO
