Every year, Peebles Farm in Augusta, Arkansas opens its gates for visitors during the fall season. The farm has become a go-to for seasonal activities such as pumpkin picking, hay rides and haunted corn mazes.
The Peebles family decided to open their farm to the public in 2004 after crop prices began to fall. After much research and planning, the Peebles created their first corn maze, which has become their staple attraction.
Today the farm boasts 20,000 visitors a year who come to see their growing attractions. In addition to the original corn maze, the family has added 60 acres of pumpkins to choose from, as well as hay rides, horse and wagon rides, a playground, a petting zoo, a sunflower field and a general store where visitors can buy locally made goods.
“Preparing the farm for fall activities starts in June when we plant the pumpkins,” Katie Peebles said. “It’s almost a seven-day-a-week job, as the crops are all hand planted, hand chopped and harvested by hand.”
The Peebles’ daughter, Mary Peebles, who grew up helping set up the farm for visitors, said that one of the most special aspects of their farm is the community building it has brought on.
“I love being able to see the joy the farm brings, not only to the visitors and my family, but to the town of Augusta as well,” Mary Peebles said.
While Peebles Farm is a local favorite, it has also become a frequent fall destination for college students. Attractions such as the sunflower field, petting zoo and the haunted corn maze draw in hundreds of college students a year.
The farm welcomes social clubs for functions throughout the fall. Junior Shannon McCurdy, activities director of women’s social club Ko Jo Kai, said having a place like Peebles Farm nearby is extremely beneficial to Harding students, particularly social clubs.
“It’s great to have a place we can go to for functions, or even just go with some friends on a weekend,” McCurdy said. “We have such a quintessential fall activity so close to us.”
Mary Peebles said that the farm has been a huge blessing to her and her family.
“I honestly can’t picture my life without it,” Mary Peebles said. “The farm has opened up so many opportunities, established relationships and has brought my family together in a closeness I never thought was possible.”
