Happy helpers at the Boxx Berry U-Pick counter
The Farm Store
The Boxx family has been rooted in Whatcom County for a long time – quite literally! In 1960, on twenty acres, Bill and Charlene Boxx put down some of their first berry plants. Bill’s dad had been a berry farmer before him and it seemed natural to continue in him family’s footsteps.
Over the past 57 years the farm, and the Boxx family, has continued to grow. Bill and Charlene are still tending the farm, though full time farm operation has passed on to two of their children, Mike and Roger. Vonda, who is married to Roger, does the record keeping and stocks the store of supplies – which is run by Samantha Boxx and has many other younger Boxxs that work there too. Crystal Boxx handmakes berry pies to sell (a new offering) and Mike’s son Brandon has started to learn how to run the flower farming side of the operation. The farm has expanded to a little over 100 acres and with luck, will continue to remain in the Boxx family for many generations to come.
Juicy raspberries ready to be picked
They are well known for the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries but they also grow carrots, potatoes, beets, garlic, sweet corn, and flowers! A few years ago they put in a USDA certified processing facility and are able to process and sell berries throughout the off-season. You can pick up all types of whole frozen berries and sliced strawberries year round, as well as pies (that are to die for) and the other veggies during the summer in the farm store.
The store also has ice cream and strawberry shortcake, and is a great place to take the kids, with picnic benches and a play park right out back. Driving back to the U-Pick section a small-forested spot makes a beautiful place to relax in the shade and take in the amazing views of Mt. Baker, it is a great way to spend an entire afternoon! Over the years the Boxxs have created more than just a beautiful farm, they’ve created a community hub.
Wagon rides will be a part of the fun at Boxx Berries stop on this years Farm Tour!
The community piece is what they love most about their work, getting food to a number of local charitable organizations including the Bellingham Food Bank (who they lease five acres to) and local senior centers. They look forward to spending time with customers during farm events like their annual Strawberry Festival (in the spring) and at other events like the Whatcom County Farm Tour (this September 9th!), whoever you are, you are always welcome out to the farm!
It’s currently berry picking season, but call ahead to see what’s available if you’re looking to fill up your freezer! The farm and the farm store is open Monday through Saturday 9-6 and on Sunday from 10-4 in the summer, check back as store hours change after Labor Day.
Boxx Berry Farm
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6211 Northwest Road
Ferndale, WA 98248
(360) 380-2699