Photo: Clark's Farm (produce at Clark’s Elioak Farm)
Photo: Clark's Farm (produce at Clark’s Elioak Farm)
Photo: Danielle Matthews
Clark's Farm (produce at Clark’s Elioak Farm)
★4.5(31 reviews)$$Farm
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 1-10. Toddlers love the gentle farm animals and colorful storybook structures, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the pony rides, hayrides, and more adventurous playground climbing. Even tweens appreciate the nostalgic charm of the Enchanted Forest artifacts.🧡 Saved by 10 families
About
Clark's Elioak Farm is a beloved working farm that combines agricultural charm with whimsical storybook magic. Kids can interact with farm animals in the petting zoo, enjoy pony rides and hayrides, and explore a unique playground featuring original sculptures from Maryland's historic Enchanted Forest theme park, including beloved characters and structures that spark imagination.
Highlights
- ✓Petting zoo with goats, sheep, chickens, and other friendly farm animals
- ✓Original Enchanted Forest storybook sculptures and playground structures from the 1950s theme park
- ✓Pony rides for young children
- ✓Seasonal hayrides around the farm property
- ✓Working farm atmosphere with fresh produce available in the farm store
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) for smaller crowds and more hands-on time with animals and staff
- 2.Bring cash for pony rides and other farm activities, as not all attractions may accept cards
- 3.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty,this is a real working farm with mud and animal encounters
- 4.Don't miss the Enchanted Forest sculptures tucked throughout the property; older parents may remember them from childhood and can share the nostalgia with kids
- 5.Arrive early in your visit window to maximize time with the animals when they're most active
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and peak seasonal activities. Visit on weekday mornings (10 AM arrival) for the smallest crowds. Fall is especially magical with pumpkin patches and harvest activities, though weekends get busy then.
What to Know
Check their website for current admission prices and which activities require additional fees (pony rides, hayrides typically cost extra). The farm store sells fresh produce and snacks, though you may want to bring water bottles and sun protection for outdoor play.
Seasonal Notes
The farm is closed Mondays year-round. Hours vary by day (Friday has special 11 AM-6 PM hours). Fall brings pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and harvest festivals. Spring features baby animals and planting season activities. Call ahead during winter months as some outdoor activities may be weather-dependent.
Nearby Eats
Ellicott City's historic Main Street (10 minutes away) offers family-friendly options like Manor Hill Brewing with outdoor seating and kids' menu, or grab casual pizza at Coal Fire Pizza. For a quick bite closer to the farm, consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the farm grounds.
More Activities Near Ellicott City
Farm
One Rock Farmacy
★5.0$
One Rock Farmacy offers a delightful agritourism experience where kids can pick their own fresh berries straight from the vine in a beautiful pastoral setting. This working farm combines hands-on fruit picking with educational agricultural experiences, giving children a meaningful connection to where their food comes from while enjoying the outdoors.
Ice Cream
Ye Olde Catonsville Creamery
$❤️5
Ye Olde Catonsville Creamery is a charming local favorite where families gather for generous scoops of homemade ice cream in creative flavors. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to relax while kids deliberate over the impressive selection, and the classic ice cream parlor vibe brings a touch of nostalgia for parents while delighting little ones with decadent sundaes and treats.
Playground
Waverly Woods Drive
Free
Waverly Woods Drive offers Ellicott City families a well-maintained neighborhood park that's perfect for active play and outdoor exploration. The modern playground equipment appeals to various age groups, while the walking trails and open fields provide plenty of space for kids to run, bike, or play ball games without feeling crowded.
Adventure
Terrapin Adventures
$$
Terrapin Adventures is an exhilarating aerial adventure park in Ellicott City that challenges older kids and teens to conquer zip lines, navigate rope courses high in the trees, and tackle climbing obstacles. Perfect for active families seeking an adrenaline-pumping outdoor experience, this park offers a safe yet thrilling environment where kids can push their boundaries, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories soaring through the treetops.