Rulfs Orchard Feeds Clinton County Year-Round

Rulfs Orchard in Peru, New York, is a third-generation farm that is known for its strawberries and apples. The farm is currently in peak visitor season, with families traveling from across the region to pick apples, explore the corn maze, take hay rides, and choose their pumpkins for fall.

“Families can spend half a day here and enjoy different activities – many of which are free or affordable,” says Shannon Wilkins, owner of Rulfs Orchard. “Young families know they can enjoy fun activities on a budget.”

The petting zoo is a particular favorite among families at Rulfs Orchard. Chloe, the horse, is beloved by local kids, and people stop by just to check on the animals.

Rulfs Orchard is open daily, with events and activities through the fall. Shannon and her sister, Amanda, are continuing the traditions of their father and grandfather, while making a few improvements to keep the farm running for future generations. 

The Family Business Started on the Honor System

Rulfs Orchard is a reflection of the Clinton County community. Shannon and Amanda’s grandfather, Bob Rulfs, moved to Peru in 1952 and fell in love with the area. “He was determined to make it work,” says Wilkins. “Other local orchard owners were kind enough to help him learn how to manage the apple orchard.”

With the community pitching in, Rulfs was able to start a dairy farm and grow apples, which he sold out of the trunk of his car. Customers paid on the honor system by placing money in a baby food jar.

Eventually, the farm started to grow. The family added a bakery, cider mill, produce store, and other buildings to expand their operations and attract customers. People loved visiting Rulfs, but the operation had grown too big for its space.

“Everyone who remembers the old store knows it was super cozy for customers, but not the best conditions for the people working here,” says Wilkins.

In 2015, the family announced plans to construct a larger building, which opened in 2016. Shannon and Amanda run the orchard with Shannon’s husband, Riley (who manages the bakery), a field manager who has been with the farm for decades, and a produce manager.

“Our grandfather was determined to live forever, so he never talked about business succession,” says Wilkins. “No one forced us to take on the orchard. We all did our own things for a few years and then found our way back to the farm.”

Visiting Rulfs Orchard is a Tradition in Clinton County 

Rulfs Orchard has two peak seasons, one in summer and one in fall. During June and July, families pick strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. In September and October, they pick apples. The farm also books field trips and group outings during the warm months. They accommodate school groups, summer camps, senior living activities, and other group gatherings.

“A lot of people travel here in the summer for berry season,” says Wilkins. “And then families and friend groups meet up in the fall. We see a lot of people return year-over-year.”  

The field trips introduce kids to farm life and show them where their food comes from. Parents also learn how difficult running a farm can be and how much work goes into producing the strawberries they enjoy in the summer or crisp apples they crave in the fall.

“If there’s a cold snap when our strawberries are growing, our field hands are outside using heaters to protect the crop,” says Wilkins. “They’re trying to save the fruit so our customers have something to pick and enjoy.” 

Rulfs is Committed to Providing Year-Round Employment

The u-pick seasons are the biggest for the orchard, and the farm makes most of its money between May and October. However, the third-generation owners keep the business open year-round to ensure their team members remain employed.

“Very few people can afford to take the winter off from work,” says Wilkins. “So we are overemployed during the winter and try to find things for our employees to do. We want to retain staff who are loyal and good workers.”

There’s plenty to buy from Rulfs Orchard even when there’s snow on the ground and the trees are bare. The owners use the slow season to sell baked goods, preserves, and other gifts. There’s nothing like coming inside after a long, cold day to a hot apple pie baking in the oven. 

Learn More About Life in Clinton County 

Clinton County, New York, is a strong community because of families like Rulf’s Orchard and the other farmers who helped Bob Rulfs when he first started out. Business owners and residents come together to support good ideas and watch entrepreneurs grow. Learn more about life in Clinton County and see yourself here. Whether you are bringing your family, your business, or your family business, we’re here to help you succeed.

Connect with the Clinton County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) to discuss moving here. There are incentives for companies and programs to help the local workforce so everyone can get the help they need.