Hill Creek Farms, a family-owned U-Pick orchard with deep roots in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, has announced one final season before transitioning to MC Farms under Mario Caltabiano. The farm’s evolution reflects a long-standing commitment to families, seasonal fruit, and farm experiences, even as regulatory and infrastructure challenges shape its path.
From Family Heritage to a Final Harvest
Hill Creek Farms was established by the Sorbello family and has grown over four generations, with Farmer Fred Sorbello and his legacy guiding the farm’s journey. As we enter the 2025 season, MC Farms takes the reins under Mario Caltabiano, a third-generation farmer who has long collaborated with Fred. While Fred’s role is evolving, his legacy remains at the heart of the orchard, and Mario aims to carry it forward with the same dedication and family values that have defined the farm for decades.
In 2018, a second-floor bathroom approval was obtained to support on-site staff, but the larger pressures of running a busy Food Distribution business and a regulated farm market contributed to a shift in focus. The decision to offer one final U-Pick season reflects both the demanding nature of harvest-time weekends and the desire to celebrate the farm’s last chapter with visitors in a simpler, pick-your-own format.
Hill Creek Farms announced a limited season for fall, emphasizing U-Pick apples, Asian pears, sunflowers, and orchard time, alongside hayrides and barrel train rides for children. The plan is to welcome guests under Mario Caltabiano’s leadership, with a clear emphasis on preserving the intimate, family-friendly experience while avoiding broader public market activities that complicate operations.
What to Expect in the Final Season
Open dates for 2025 run from September through November, with Friday visits typically free of admission and weekend visits requiring a per-vehicle admission of $10 plus bag choices based on desired apple quantities. Barrel train rides are available for a separate fee. Attractions include:
- U-Pick apples and Asian pears
- Sunflower fields for viewing and photography
- Hay rides through the orchard and fields
- Photo opportunities scattered throughout the farm
- Barrel train rides for little ones (ages 18 months to 10 years) for $5 per rider
Important seasonal notes include that playground equipment, the market, and wine garden will not be open during the final season, but the orchard itself remains open for picking and enjoying the countryside. The farm is located at 1631 NJ-45, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062, with ample grassy parking and dog-friendly policies on leashes and walking paths away from the orchards.
Special Weekend Plans and Local Collaborations
Auburn Road Vineyard and Winery will participate on weekends in October, enhancing the harvest experience with совместные activities like hot cider and cider donuts from Pattyscakes Concessions/EMS Cafe Food Trucks and Catering. Local vendors such as Kona Ice and The Cherry on Top Truck will offer apple cider slushies, ice cream, and cider floats, creating a festival-like atmosphere during select weekends. A Market Yard Sale is planned for a weekend breakout, along with pumpkin picking during October 10-13, and free farm admission on Monday, October 13, plus regular free admission on Fridays for all visitors.
Hours align with the harvest rhythm: Hill Creek Farms is open Friday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, from early September to mid-November. The farm welcomes visitors to experience the fruit, the scenery, and the seasonal traditions that families across generations have enjoyed.
What’s Behind the Transition to MC Farms?
The transition to MC Farms under Mario Caltabiano reflects a continuity of family farming values while adapting to modern regulations and the realities of operating a seasonal business. The farm will not be sold, but it will close to public access after 2025, with future visits planned at MC Farms a few miles up the road. This ensures that the agricultural spirit and community-focused activities endure in a new chapter.
Practical Details for Visitors
What to pick and where to park: Currently available activities include apple picking, Asian pear picking, sunflower picking, and hay rides. The farm emphasizes photo opportunities and family-friendly experiences, with clear guidelines for dogs, parking, and admission. For Friday visits, no ticket is required and entry is free; on Saturdays and Sundays, per-vehicle admission applies in addition to polybags for fruit and optional ride tickets. The barrel train ride, a perennial favorite for kids, costs $5 per rider.
Accessibility and safety: The farm offers a large grassy parking area and walking paths that keep visitors on designated routes. While the playground and certain amenities are not operating in the final season, the orchard experience remains deeply engaging for families seeking a traditional pick-your-own excursion.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
Hill Creek Farms’ history as a four-generation family farm anchors its present and future. The Sorbello family’s legacy is being honored as Mario Caltabiano leads the next chapter, with the farm transitioning to MC Farms. Although the public-facing operation will pause after 2025, the community can anticipate continued farming culture and agricultural education at the new site nearby.
