Clark’s Elioak Farm | Columbia MD

Clark’s Elioak Farm, located at 10500 Clarksville Pike in Ellicott City, Maryland, is a historic family-owned petting farm and rural attraction that has been operating continuously since 1797. Managed by the seventh generation of the Clark family, this farm combines agricultural tradition with a wide variety of interactive experiences designed to engage visitors of all ages. It is well-known not only for its farm animals but also for preserving and revitalizing a beloved regional treasure-the Enchanted Forest storybook park.

Historical Background and Setting

Clark’s Elioak Farm is situated on historic farmland that has been passed down through the Clark family for more than two centuries. This long-standing agricultural heritage is integral to the farm’s identity, providing a living connection to Maryland’s rural past. The farm operates both as an educational facility and a community gathering place, preserving farming traditions while adapting to contemporary recreational needs.

The farm spans multiple acres of pastoral land, featuring fields, barns, wooded areas, and family-friendly attractions. It emphasizes sustainability and offers visitors an authentic countryside experience near the suburban setting of Howard County.

Animal Encounters and Petting Farm

The heart of Clark’s Elioak Farm is its extensive petting farm area, where visitors can interact closely with a diverse range of animals. The farm houses many common and farm-specific species, including:

Goats

Sheep

Cows

Pigs

Horses and ponies

Donkeys

Turkeys, chickens, and ducks

Rabbits and other small mammals

Visitors are encouraged to feed and pet the animals, fostering an educational and tactile experience, especially appealing to young children. The farm also sells small bags of goat feed to further engage guests in caring for the animals.

Rides and Activities

Beyond animal interactions, the farm offers a variety of rides and attractions that bring fun and excitement to the visit:

Cow Train: A train ride pulled by a tractor that circles parts of the farm, providing a relaxing way to view the animals and scenery.

Pony Rides: Short guided pony rides suitable for young children.

Enchanted Express Train: A whimsical ride that travels through parts of the farm, designed to entertain and delight with charming visuals.

Hay Wagon Ride: A rustic wagon ride that offers visitors a unique perspective of the farm’s landscape.

Gem Mining: Visitors can purchase bags of sand to sift through and discover real gems, minerals, fossils, and rocks, creating a hands-on geology experience.

These rides typically require an additional fee beyond the base admission price and provide extra layers of entertainment.

The Enchanted Forest and Fairy Forest

One of the farm’s standout features is its role in preserving and restoring the Enchanted Forest, a once-iconic storybook theme park that originally operated nearby from 1955 to 1995. Starting in 2004, Clark’s Elioak Farm began relocating and restoring many original Enchanted Forest structures and sculptures, including the famed Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, the Entrance Castle, and various storybook scenes.

This restoration project blends nostalgia with fairy-tale magic, offering visitors a chance to explore and relive childhood memories or introduce the charm of storybook fantasy to new generations.

Complementing the Enchanted Forest is the Fairy Forest, added in 2020, which immerses visitors in a woodland setting decorated with fairy-themed art installations and whimsical elements, enhancing the farm’s magical atmosphere.

Special Events and Seasonal Programming

Clark’s Elioak Farm hosts a range of special events throughout the year to attract visitors with diverse interests:

Princess Day on the Farm: A themed event that features princess appearances, fairy tale crafts, and activities aimed at children and families.

Sunflower Showcase: A seasonal event from mid-August to early September, when large fields of sunflowers bloom, providing vibrant photo opportunities and scenic walking paths.

Fairy Festival: A summer event featuring games, crafts, and activities set within the Enchanted Pine Forest.

Enchanted Forest Anniversary: Celebrations marking significant milestones, such as the 70th anniversary of the original Enchanted Forest, including special commemorations and community gatherings.

These events enrich the visitor experience by blending education, entertainment, and community spirit.

Farm Produce and Sustainability Initiatives

In addition to its attractions, Clark’s Elioak Farm maintains an active farming operation. It offers fresh, chemical-free vegetables, herbs, and flowers grown on-site, which are available for purchase at the farm’s roadside produce stand. The farm operates a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, allowing members to receive regular shares of seasonal produce, promoting local food sustainability.

Visitors can also participate in a "Cut Your Own Flower Garden" experience during summer, fostering a connection to horticulture and seasonal rhythms.

Visitor Information

Operating Season: The farm is generally open from early April through early November, accommodating visitors primarily during the warmer months.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday through Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Mondays: Open on certain holidays and during October.

Admission: The base admission fee is $8.00 per person (ages 1 and up), which grants access to the petting farm, the Enchanted Forest and Fairy Forest areas, playgrounds, picnic spots, and general farm grounds.

Additional Fees: Charges apply for extra activities such as the Enchanted Express Train ($5), hay wagon, cow train, and pony rides ($3 each), gem mining ($8 to $15), and goat feed ($1).

No advance reservations are required; tickets are purchased on-site. Payment methods include cash, credit/debit cards, and Apple Pay.

Facilities and Amenities

The farm offers picnic areas where families can relax and enjoy meals brought from home or purchased nearby. Restrooms and shaded seating areas are conveniently located. The farm is accessible and family-friendly, with wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Summary

Clark’s Elioak Farm is a unique destination that fuses agricultural tradition, interactive animal experiences, and the magic of fairy-tale nostalgia through its restoration of the Enchanted Forest. It serves as both an educational resource and a recreational venue, appealing especially to families, school groups, and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Maryland’s rural heritage blended with whimsical charm. The farm’s commitment to sustainability, community involvement, and preservation of local history makes it a cherished institution in Howard County and beyond.