Dig Deeper Blog

We're a long way from those childhoods our grandparents (or great-grandparents?) had, where jumping on top of the hay wagon was a part of the summer fun. Of course, once you got to the barn you were handed a pitchfork to unload the wagon. Luckily there are still some farms that will load up the hay wagon just to give you the experience, with no pitchforks in sight! Check out these delightful farm stays where you can ride around the farm, drawn either by horses or these days more likely the tractor. Embody the joy experienced by your inner-ancestor. Here's a roundup of just a few of the farms you can visit: Riding on a hay trailer at Hidden Hills Farm in Kansas Fairwinds Farm Located in Maryland, Fairwinds Farm offers a variety of activities including hay wagon rides, horseback riding, and fishing. This family-friendly farm is perfect for those looking to experience a variety of farm life activities in a scenic setting​ (Farmstay)​. Verdant View Farm Situated in Pennsylvania, Verdant View Farm provides hay wagon rides, dairy tours, and opportunities to help with farm chores. This farm emphasizes hands-on experiences, making it ideal for families and groups looking to get involved in farm life​ (Farmstay)​. Hull-O Farms Located in New York, Hull-O Farms features hay wagon rides, bottle feeding animals, and opportunities to explore a corn maze (seasonal). Guests can also participate in various other farm activities such as fishing and gardening​ (Farmstay)​. Hay wagon ride at Heavenly Acres Farm in Indiana Liberty Hill Farm Inn This Vermont farm offers hay wagon rides, berry picking, and dairy tours. Liberty Hill Farm Inn is a great place to learn about sustainable farming practices while enjoying the beautiful Vermont landscape​ (Farmstay)​. HarBet Lodge Located in Texas, HarBet Lodge provides a range of activities including hay rides, fishing, and learning about large animal veterinary care. This farm stay offers a unique blend of educational experiences and outdoor fun​ (Farmstay)​. A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch At this Tennessee ranch, guests can enjoy hay wagon rides, horseback riding, and even participate in bread and butter making. This ranch is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a traditional ranch experience​ (Farmstay)​.   Summer is hay season on the farm so this is the time to get out for those rides. Some of these farms will trade wheels for sleds in winter, when you cuddle under blankets, marvel at the quiet of the snow and the huffing of the team, and dream of hot chocolate on return home. These farms here are just a few of the farms offering hay wagon rides found under the Activities filter check-off for hay wagons on the Farmstay site. Give it a try! Riding in the covered hay wagon at Rockn Rowdy Ranch in Texas (Cover photo courtesy of Hull-o Farms NY)