U-Pick
BLACK RASPBERRIES
Mon-Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday: 8am - 4pm
Sunday: 11am - 3pm
Mon-Friday: Check in at the Market
SAT & SUN: Go directly to U-Pick Area
HOURS
CHECK-IN
U-Pick hours are different than market hours.
U-PICK RULES
-
Please don't leave trash behind.
-
NO pets are allowed in the U-Pick areas.
-
If you use the restroom before going to pick raspberries, please wash your hands before entering the raspberry field.
-
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
-
Please be respectful to others who are picking raspberries.
-
Have fun and enjoy!
Please call before coming to find out about the picking conditions, (717) 564-3130.
Strites' invites you and your family to enjoy the simple pleasure of hand-picking nature’s sweetest gems: black raspberries. Our U-pick fields are open daily during peak season, offering a fun and rewarding outing for all ages. Whether you're gathering berries for a homemade pie or just enjoying the sunshine, there's nothing quite like the taste of a berry picked fresh from the vine.
We recommend that you come out for picking in the morning when it's cooler so it's an enjoyable experience. However, if you come in the afternoon be sure to stop by the market to cool off with some ice cream or a fruit slushy!
U-Pick Black Raspberries – A Sweet Summer Tradition in Pennsylvania
Black raspberries, often called “black caps” in Pennsylvania, are a native berry known for their deep purple-black hue, rich flavor, and powerful antioxidants. Smaller and sweeter than their red cousins, black raspberries are a seasonal delicacy that ripens in late June through early July.
Black raspberries are a cherished ingredient in:
-
Homemade jams & jellies – A staple at farmers markets and family tables.
-
Pies & cobblers – A classic dessert at summer picnics and county fairs.
-
Ice cream & sorbet – Local creameries often feature black raspberry as a seasonal favorite.
-
Wines & cordials – Small-batch wineries and distilleries craft unique beverages from these flavorful berries.
-
Medicinal & herbal remedies – Traditionally used in teas and tinctures for their health benefits.
Prep for Picking Tips:
-
Pick only fully ripe berries—they should come off the stem easily.
-
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting a little berry-stained.
-
Come early for the best selection!
-
We recommend that you come out for picking in the morning when it's cooler so it's an enjoyable experience. However, if you come in the afternoon be sure to stop by the market to cool off with some ice cream or a fruit slushy!
Our pick-your-own black raspberry season typically open mid-June through the end of June. This is subject to change depending on how to weather effects the raspberry growing season. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to receive updates.
U-Pick Common Questions
-
WEEKDAYS: During weekdays check in at the market, before heading out to the black raspberry field please stop in the market to pick up a U-Pick container.
-
WEEKENDS: On weekends, check-in at the designated U-Pick Area.
Do we need to bring containers for black raspberry picking?
No, we provide U-Pick containers for you to pick your black raspberries.
🍇 PICKING TIPS:
-
Color & Shape: Ripe black raspberries are a deep purple, almost black color. Look for plump, full berries, avoiding those that are small or shriveled, which may indicate they are not fully ripe or have been damaged.
-
Avoid Red: Red berries are unripe and should be left on the bush.
-
Ease of Removal: They should separate easily from the stem when gently rolled or pulled.
-
Protection: Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from thorns and potential contact with poison ivy, which can be found in similar habitats.
-
Container: Use a shallow container & don't over fill it to avoid crushing the berries.
-
Washing: Wait to wash your berries until just before eating or using them to prevent spoilage.
-
Storage: After picking, store berries in a cool place or refrigerate them as soon as possible. Raspberries are best enjoyed within a day or two—or freeze them for later!
Do you have pre-picked black raspberries?
YES, we have fresh picked black raspberries available daily (during raspberry season), but please call before coming to be sure we haven't sold out for the day (717) 564-3130.
SAFETY
We want you to have an enjoyable experience, so we do our very best to make sure the grass is cut around our black raspberry bushes. Please help us by picking up your trash. Thanks so much!
Are pets allowed in the U-Pick black raspberry area?
NO, pets are not allowed in the pick your own areas for health and food safety reasons.
LOCATION
1000 Strites Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111
