I’m certain that people who take care of animals are the best people on earth — they really know how to feed the body and the spirit. The gals at Bonnybrook Farms are a perfect example.
It was a Saturday night during the summer when we visited Bonnybrook Farms in Clarksville, Ohio (2.5 hours from Indy, 20 minutes from Kings Island). My children were chilly from the unseasonably cool summer weather, the rain made appearances on and off and our sightseeing adventures had not allowed for a proper (much needed) nap-time.
When we arrived, the fields were full of families flinging giant slingshots and shooting arrows at pots and pans. Children played on the play equipment and were scattered throughout the farm, looking at animals, running around and playing. My children were excited to see it all and despite their “I haven’t napped” hollering, Bonnie (one of the farm namesakes) and Diane loved on them and treated all of us to a very special evening.
All summer long (unless the foul weather makes the fields impassable), people come from near and far for a summer night on the farm — the Chuck Wagon Dinner Ride is a favorite for locals and visitors to the area.
At 5 p.m. guests arrive and the farm games begin. Enjoy the giant slingshots and clodhopper golf course, bring your own fishing poles and bait for some catch and release fishing time, ride the 80 foot underground slide, pet the farm animals in the stable, feed the fish and enjoy the trails.
When the dinner bell rings at 6:30pm, don’t be late for the most delicious BBQ dinner — hickory smoked pulled pork and chicken with your choice from a selection of barbecue sauces. Nathan’s hotdogs, and delectable sides and salads made from locally grown produce hug the plates of dinner guests in the beautiful barn decorated with wildflowers on every table. Adults are welcome to bring their own beverages or enjoy the lemonade and tea.
Following dinner, hop aboard the Bonnybrook farm wagon, pulled by a tractor on an old wagon road down to the stream. You’ll arrive to a “camp” setup with bonfires for s’more toasting and the famous old chuck wagon where Bonnie and her team serve even more amazing treats. Homemade cobbler and cookies with tin cup coffee fill every remaining space in your belly as your body relaxes in a space that is so different and seemingly so far from your everyday routine.
At the conclusion of the evening, you’ll breathe the fresh air and look around knowing that this is the good life. Hospitality is good for the heart and the soul and genuine hospitality might be the best treat of all at Bonnybrook Farms — I’ll say it again, people who care for animals are the best when it comes to caring for the body and the spirit.
If you’re looking for a delicious feast with a big side of family fun, Bonnybrook Farms is a can’t miss! Make your reservations today: Contact Bonnie or Diane 937.289.2500 3779
State Route 132
Clarksville, OH 45113