Family legacy, community flourish at Darnell Farms
Nestled along the Tuckasegee River, Darnell Farms has grown from the vision of Jeffrey Darnell into a bustling agricultural and community hub, drawing in an estimated 100,000 visitors each year.
Today, the family farm runs under the leadership of his children, Afton Darnell and Nathaniel “Nate” Darnell, who carry forward their father’s dedication to farming, family and rich Appalachian tradition.
“Our goal has always been to create a space where families can connect — not just with each other, but with the land and the food they eat,” said Afton Darnell, co-owner of Darnell Farms. “Everything we do, from the strawberry fields to our fall festivals, is built around that idea.”
Spanning over 100 acres, Darnell Farms produces a wide variety of crops, with strawberries, tomatoes and pumpkins as signature harvests. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences during U-pick seasons, explore the farm’s large-scale wholesale operations, or attend its popular agritourism events.
“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Darnell said. “Whether you’re a local family or someone visiting the Smoky Mountains for the first time, our farm is designed for you to enjoy the rhythm of farm life.”
Darnell Farms is a community cornerstone, employing dozens of Swain County residents.
Audrey Lambert, general manager at the farm, describes the Darnells and fellow employees as a “farmily.”
“The farm helps a lot of people and they do not do it for any recognition,” said Lambert. “They help people who can’t afford groceries. They sponsored Christmas for a family whose house burnt down and donate trees to nursing homes. Jeff places Christmas wreaths on veterans’ graves. They do a lot for their employees, like finding stuff for us to do to pay bills. I am addicted to working at this place.”
The farm partners with organizations such as WNC Lighthouse and Impact Health to distribute Healthy Food Boxes. Educational field trips, support for local FFA programs and participation in area fundraisers further cement the farm’s role in the region.
“Our mission is to cultivate connection,” Darnell said. “It’s about honest farming, community celebration, and keeping Appalachian tradition alive. Every festival, every hayride, every crop we grow reflects that mission.”
The farm hosts a variety of signature events throughout the year, including the upcoming Easter Eggstravaganza in March, Pickle Fest in August, Sweet Corn Festival in July, Plow Days in October and Winter Wonderland Hayrides in November and December. In 2025, Pickle Fest set a record for attendance, drawing thousands of visitors.
Darnell emphasized the importance of family involvement.
“Dad built the foundation, and Nate and I are proud to continue his vision,” she said. “We work side by side with our family every day, and I think that authenticity shows in everything we do.”
Darnell Farms also partners with regional retail and wholesale operations, including Ingles Markets, Sullivan Produce, and Hillside Orchard Farms, while expanding its Farm Sampler Box shipping program. Innovative attractions such as the Glow-in-the-Dark Corn Maze have further elevated the farm’s reputation for agritourism.
“Farming is about more than crops,” Darnell said. “It’s about community, celebration, and connection. That’s the heart of Darnell Farms — and it’s what keeps us growing.”
Darnell Farms is located at 2300 Governors Island Road in Bryson City, and welcomes visitors year-round.