There’s something special about the way fall settles over Maryland; the crisp air, golden leaves, and gentle pace that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in. This past weekend, we decided to trade screens for sunshine and spend a family day at Clark’s Elioak Farm in Ellicott City, Maryland. It’s one of those places that feels like stepping into a storybook. Full of farm animals, fairy-tale displays, and simple joys that remind you what childhood feels like. Between the laughter, the pumpkin picking, and the magic of the Enchanted Forest, it was the kind of day I’ll want to remember for a long time.
The Charm of Clark Elioak Farm
This farm is such an enchanting place to visit, especially during the fall! Located in Ellicot City, Maryland, they have so many activities at the farm, not to include the seasonal events that they host which adds so much more! We love it for the hands on activites like the pumpking patch, the little petting zoo, and open space. Even when its crowded, it's never truly crowded because of their generously planned spacing.
I can't get enough of Farm Festivals and this year, for the 2nd year in a row, we decided to visit Clark Elioak's Farm during their season where they have Pumpkin Patches open, from September 13th to November 2nd. So you still have a little time by the time this comes out. If not, you can still visit them for the other activities they offer!
Our Favorite Parts of the Day
Exploring the Enchanted Forest
This area is such a cute section of the farm with multiple fairy tale displays. They are well maintained and nostalgic. A lot of them also are available to interact and take plenty of cute pictures!
Meeting the Animals
I am not the biggest fan of zoos and how the animals are used solely for entertainment, BUT I love visiting local farms that may extend out an interaction section. And of course, my little ones are obsessed with animals, so this petting zoo was a win win. All the animals were very friendly and looked very much loved.
You can buy feed for various animals when you purchase your admission tickets.
Pumpkins, treats, and simple joys
We all know that the Pumpkin Patch pictures are the real reason we visit! Their pumpking patch was so big and even offered activities right within the pumpkin patch area. There were a couple playgrounds right next to the patch and even a little hay maze inside. Don't worry, you can actually look over it so you don't have to worry about your little one getting lost in it. Toddlers and kids are free to run inside and such a fun little area to get all their energy out!
The farm also has a little store where you enter and exit from. They have plenty of seasonal options for you to grab your favorite gifts, if the little pumpking from the patch wasn't enough!
Photography Moments & Inspiration
Whenever I visit places like Clark’s Elioak Farm, I’m reminded that the best memories aren’t the ones we pose or stage, they’re the ones that happen when no one’s trying too hard. The giggles that spill out when a goat gets a little too curious, the way sunlight hits your child’s curls, or the quiet moment your partner brushes hay off your shoulder, these are the kinds of photos that tell your real story.
It feels like Clark’s Elioak Farm is made for those genuine moments. The rustic barns, open fields, and fairy-tale displays give every photo a warm, timeless feel. Whether you’re holding hands on the hayride or chasing your little ones through the pumpkin patch, every corner of the farm seems to invite a bit of magic.
If you’re taking your own photos, try letting go of “picture-perfect.” Focus on how it feels. Capture the messy, the laughter, the little details like the way your child’s shoes get covered in dust or how everyone squeezes together on the hay bale. Those are the moments that will make you smile years from now.
But don't get me wrong, a little direction is very helpful and also come off naturally as well! With little ones, have them sit somewhere and instead of telling them to say cheese, play peek a boo. This trick even works with older kids, as they'll look at you crazy but give in with some laughs on how silly you may look.
I always remind families that the best photos happen when you feel relaxed and things feel natural. When your child reaches for a goat’s ear or when you laugh mid-spin on the hayride. Those are the images that bring you right back to the day, every single time.
Tips for visiting Clark Elioak's Farm
Best Time to Visit
My kids have a nap time around 12:30 every day, so I like to head out early to beat the crowds and soak in the calm. When we arrived around 10 AM on a Friday, there were already a few school groups visiting, but the space never felt overwhelming. Even with a buzz of excitement in the air, there was plenty of room to explore at our own pace.
Weekday mornings (Monday–Thursday) are ideal if you prefer a quieter visit, but early afternoons can be lovely too, especially if you’re hoping to catch that soft, golden light. For photos, I always suggest early to late afternoon. Golden hour is beautiful here, but the tree coverage also gives you great light throughout the day.
What to bring
A go-bag (for non toddler parents) or a diaper bag is always recommended to keep in your car or pack for the trip. Here's a list of a few things to consider -
- Water bottles. There is also some water bottles at the farm store if you forget yours!
- Snacks. The farm has plenty of seating areas to take your littles to eat.
- Wipes (even for non-baby/toddler parents). Especially for wiping hands off after the playground or petting the animals.
- Hand Sanitizer. For similar reasons above!
- Change of clothes (At least pants). It is a farm at the end of the day with plenty of activities. There is lots of dirt!
- Neutral Blanket. Optional, but perfect if you want a picnic style portrait near the mushrooms or fairy forest!
- Cash. I like to keep extra cash on hand for the farm store. They accept card, but I always find cash easier in case systems are down or I would like to tip.
Admission & Parking
Compared to some of the other popular farms in Maryland, Clark Elioak Farm is very affordable. It's $8 per person for admission and extras are still affordable. They also offer free parking!
Heres the link to their most up to date pricing: https://clarklandfarm.com/petting_farm.html
Extra Tips
- If you’re a photo lover, pack a neutral blanket or lightweight quilt; it’s perfect for impromptu photos or a snack break on the grass.
- Don’t rush. There’s so much for kids to see and touch. From the mini playgrounds to the enchanted forest displays, that slowing down really lets them enjoy the experience. It’s one of those places where “just one hour” can easily turn into an entire morning without realizing it.
Conclusion
By the end of the day, our shoes were muddy, our cheeks were pink, and our hearts were full. There’s a kind of beauty in places like Clark’s Elioak Farm where the fun is simple, the air smells like hay and apples, and time seems to move a little slower. As a parent, I’m learning that these local adventures are the ones that matter most, the moments that don’t need to be perfect to be unforgettable.
If you’ve never been, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re there for the animals, the nostalgia, or just a cozy fall afternoon with your family, you’ll leave with more than photos you’ll leave with memories that linger long after the season fades.
And as a bonus, I offer to tag along with you as you and your family discover the wonderful Clark Elioak's Farm. Taking plenty of candid and portraits shots of you and your beautiful family!
