Recently, we celebrated our 5-year-old’s birthday at Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch, and like many families who visit this cherished Bixby destination, we discovered why it’s become such a beloved fall tradition in Green Country. After spending hours exploring every corner of this family-friendly venue, I’m excited to share everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit.
Location & Hours of Operation
Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch is conveniently located at 17137 S Mingo Rd in Bixby, Oklahoma. The farm opens its gates for the fall season starting the last weekend of September and welcomes visitors throughout October with convenient daily hours:
- Monday through Sunday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Getting There
Situated southeast of Bixby at the intersection of 171st Street and Mingo Road, the pumpkin patch is easily accessible from both Tulsa and surrounding communities. The property offers ample free parking, making it convenient for families arriving at any time during operating hours.
Admission & Activity Pricing
One of the most appealing aspects of Carmichael’s is their approach to pricing.
The farm offers free admission, allowing families to enjoy many activities without any entry fee.
Here’s a breakdown of activity costs:
- Animal Feed: $0.50 per bag
- Wagon Rides: $2 per person
- Camel Rides: $7 per ride
- Pony Rides: $7 per ride
- Cane Maze: $2 per person
This à la carte pricing structure lets families customize their experience based on their interests and budget.
Attractions & Activities
The Pumpkin Patch
The namesake pumpkin patch is a sprawling field filled with pumpkins of all sizes, colors, and varieties. Whether you’re looking for the perfect jack-o’-lantern candidate or decorative gourds for fall displays, you’ll find plenty of options. The patch also provides excellent photo opportunities, with natural backdrops that capture the essence of autumn.
Extensive Petting Zoo
One of the highlights of Carmichael’s is their impressive free petting zoo, which houses an diverse collection of animals:
Farm Animals
- Cows
- Pigs
- Goats
- Llamas
- Chickens
- Roosters
- Turkeys
Special Animals
- Parakeets (offering unique interactive experiences)
- Turtles (a favorite among younger visitors)
- Additional seasonal animals
The petting zoo is designed to be interactive and educational, allowing children to learn about different animals while enjoying close encounters. While admission to the petting zoo is free, purchasing a bag of animal feed ($0.50) enhances the experience, allowing visitors to interact more closely with the friendly residents.
Rides & Special Attractions
Camel Rides
A unique feature that sets Carmichael’s apart from other pumpkin patches is their camel rides. For $7, visitors can experience this memorable adventure that’s sure to be a highlight of their visit. The rides are supervised and safe, making them suitable for children and adults alike.
Pony Rides
Traditional pony rides ($7) are available for younger visitors, providing a classic farm experience. Each ride is supervised by trained staff members who ensure children’s safety while allowing them to enjoy this timeless activity.
Wagon Rides
The wagon rides ($2) offer a relaxing way to tour the property and enjoy the autumn scenery. These rides are particularly popular during peak fall foliage season and provide excellent opportunities for family photos.
Cane Maze
The cane maze ($2) offers an exciting challenge for visitors of all ages. Unlike traditional corn mazes, this sorghum cane maze provides a unique experience while maintaining visibility for parent’s peace of mind.
Food & Refreshments
Food Trucks
The property hosts various food trucks throughout the season, offering a range of dining options. The selection of food trucks can vary by day, adding variety for repeat visitors.
Bringing Your Own Food
Carmichael’s welcomes families to bring their own snacks and refreshments. The property offers free picnic tables throughout, making it convenient to enjoy packed lunches or snacks.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
Best Times to Visit
- Early morning hours tend to be less crowded, especially on weekdays
- Mid-week visits generally offer more relaxed experiences
- Peak times include weekend afternoons and holidays
- Consider weather forecasts when planning your visit
What to Bring
- Cash (while credit cards are accepted, having cash can be convenient for small purchases)
- Water bottles and snacks
- Sunscreen and hats
- Camera for photo opportunities
- Hand sanitizer for after animal encounters
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Photography Tips
- Morning light offers the best natural illumination for photos
- Popular photo spots include:
- The main pumpkin patch
- Animal encounters
- Camel and pony rides
- Scenic farm views
- Fall decorative displays
Planning Group Visits
Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration like we did or organizing a group outing, Carmichael’s accommodates groups with several amenities:
- Free tables available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Space for group activities and gatherings
- No advance reservations required for general admission
- Flexible spacing for multiple small groups
Seasonal Highlights
Early Season (Late September)
- First pick of pumpkins
- Mild weather conditions
- Less crowded experiences
Mid-Season (Early-Mid October)
- Peak fall colors
- Full roster of activities
- Ideal photography conditions
Late Season (Late October)
- Halloween preparations
- Special seasonal activities
- Last chance for fall festivities
Nearby Attractions
Make a day of your visit by combining your trip to Carmichael’s with other nearby attractions. Consider visiting:
- Natural Falls State Park for hiking and natural beauty
- Celebrate Halloween in Oklahoma events in the area
- Hay and Corn Mazes in Oklahoma
Weather Considerations
Oklahoma weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth considering the forecast when planning your visit. The pumpkin patch operates in most weather conditions, but some activities may be limited during inclement weather. The farm often posts weather-related updates on their Facebook page.
Making the Most of Your Visit
To fully enjoy everything Carmichael’s has to offer, consider these final tips:
- Allow at least 2-3 hours for your visit
- Visit early in the season for the best pumpkin selection
- Combine activities to maximize value
- Take advantage of free attractions between paid activities
- Bring a wagon or cart if you plan to purchase multiple pumpkins
Conservation and Education
Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch plays an important role in agricultural education and local farming traditions. Their commitment to providing hands-on experiences with animals and farming helps create meaningful connections between visitors and agriculture.
For more fall activities in the area, explore our guides to fall foliage and festivals or discover other family-friendly destinations throughout Green Country.
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch offers an authentic fall farm experience that captures the magic of the season. With its mix of free and affordable activities, it’s an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting autumn memories in Green Country.
