Tucked away in the heart of Skillman, New Jersey, just a short drive from bustling city life, you’ll find a magical oasis that smells like serenity and feels like a warm hug. Hidden Spring Lavender Farm is more than just a destination—it’s an immersive experience that blends rustic charm with natural beauty, animal companionship, and locally crafted products.
What started 25 years ago as a hay field and a dream has blossomed into a 25-acre lavender wonderland complete with a growing herd of friendly alpacas, picturesque purple fields, and a cozy, fragrant-filled farm shop that leaves visitors smiling and refreshed.
🌿 Curious about more unique places to visit across the Garden State? Start your journey here.
The Dream That Bloomed Into Reality
Marie and Steve Voorhees weren’t always lavender farmers. Their original land—complete with a classic red barn—was a working hay farm with cattle. But off-season aesthetics and a desire to create something more visually appealing (and deer-resistant) led them to take a chance on lavender back in 2012. What began with 1,000 plants has grown into more than 5,000 thriving lavender bushes spanning 15 varieties, offering a vivid sea of purple every June and July.
Lavender’s natural calming properties make it a go-to in aromatherapy, but at Hidden Spring, it’s also the star of everything from essential oils and linen sprays to handmade soaps, candles, and even lavender-stuffed teddy bears. The repurposed barn now serves as a full-service lavender boutique, with every product lovingly crafted onsite.
Meet the Real Stars: The Alpacas
If lavender is the heart of Hidden Spring, the alpacas are the soul. After boarding horses became too labor-intensive, the Voorheeses introduced alpacas in 2018—and they’ve been a hit ever since. Starting with just four, the farm now boasts 22 cuddly alpacas, each with its own personality and story.
Visitors can stroll the grounds on alpaca walks, interact with the gentle animals up close, and even catch them dressed up in seasonal costumes during the holidays. Their presence is more than adorable—they’re therapeutic, especially for first-time visitors and families from urban areas.
“They just put a smile on your face,” says Marie. “Watching someone pet an alpaca for the first time or walk through the lavender fields—it’s just pure joy.”
The alpacas don’t just look good either. Many of them are award-winners, bred for top-tier fleece that’s spun into luxurious, warm items like blankets, yarn, scarves, and socks—all available in the farm’s shop.
Sustainable Farming With a Personal Touch
Running a farm of this nature isn’t all sunshine and blossoms. The Voorheeses have weathered everything from shifting state regulations to the impact of the pandemic. When COVID disrupted foot traffic, Marie shifted gears and created thousands of lavender-scented face masks, keeping the farm’s mission alive through innovation.
This ability to adapt is what keeps Hidden Spring fresh. The farm has evolved from hosting weddings and events to focusing more on its core mission: creating a peaceful, educational, and joyful experience for all who visit.
Despite rising costs and economic shifts, Marie and Steve have maintained affordable pricing for over a decade. Entry is free on non-event days, and no reservation is needed—an open invitation to escape into nature.
Hidden Spring Lavender Farm at a Glance
📍 Address: 890 Route 601, Skillman, NJ
📞 Phone: 609-558-7034
🎟️ Cost to Visit: Free on non-event days, no reservations required
🐾 Alpaca Walks: A must-do activity for kids and adults alike
🛍️ Shop: Lavender oils, soaps, sprays, crafts, fleece products, and gifts
Looking to Explore More Lavender Love Across NJ?
New Jersey is blossoming with lavender farms, each with its own special twist:
- Pleasant Valley Lavender (Morganville): A pet-friendly spot where you can pick your own lavender and book dreamy photo sessions.
- Princeton Lavender (Princeton): Offers a similar experience with alpacas, ponies, and farm-based events.
- Field & Flock Lavender Farm (Woodstown): Dive deeper into lavender with distillation classes and intimate events.
- Orchard View Lavender Farm (Port Murray): Known for its bath/body products, teas, and scenic event hosting.
Want to find your perfect farm day? Explore more local gems across New Jersey.
Final Thoughts: A New Jersey Treasure
Hidden Spring Lavender Farm is more than just a charming spot on the map—it’s a living example of what passion, persistence, and creativity can grow. Whether you’re there to shop, stroll through the fragrant fields, pet an alpaca, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the digital world, this family-run farm offers an unforgettable escape.
Come for the lavender, stay for the alpacas, and leave with a little more peace in your soul.
🌸 Keep exploring the beauty, community, and spirit of the Garden State with us at Explore New Jersey.