If you’ve ever bitten into a freshly picked orange and wondered where it came from, Mission, Texas, offers the answer—right from the tree, sun-warmed and sweet. This little slice of the Rio Grande Valley is known for its citrus heritage, with groves dotting the countryside and offering tours that are as flavorful as they are scenic.
For guests staying at nearby resorts like Mission RV Resort, exploring local citrus groves isn’t just a great way to spend an afternoon—it’s a straight-up sensory experience. From the smell of ripening fruit to the feel of cool shade under mature trees, there’s something simple and grounding about being where your food comes from.
Here’s everything you need to know about exploring citrus groves around Mission, TX, and why it’s a can’t-miss stop while you’re RVing through the area.
Why Citrus Is Such a Big Deal in Mission, TX
Mission’s warm climate, fertile soil, and long growing season make it ideal for producing grapefruits, oranges, lemons, and other citrus varieties. In fact, the area has been a major citrus-growing hub for decades—and they take it pretty seriously. There’s even an annual Texas Citrus Fiesta, with parades, pageants, and citrus-themed floats.
But what really makes the experience shine is how local farms open their gates to curious visitors. You can literally walk through rows of citrus trees, sample fruit straight from the branch, and learn a thing or two from farmers who’ve been in the biz for generations.
Best Citrus Grove Tours Near Mission RV Resort
1. Griffin and Brand Citrus Growers
Just a short drive from the RV park, this farm is known for its large-scale operations and informative walking tours. You’ll learn how citrus is grown, harvested, and shipped across the country. Bonus? The fruit stand out front usually has great prices on freshly picked citrus.
2. Kleberg Farms Citrus Experience
Family-owned and full of history, Kleberg offers guided grove walks and hands-on harvesting (in-season). It’s a great place to bring kids or anyone who’s never seen a citrus tree up close. Sometimes they offer juicing demos too, which—yeah—is as cool as it sounds.
3. Roadside Citrus Stands & Mini-Groves
While not official “tours,” don’t overlook the countless little groves and roadside stands around Mission. Many owners are happy to chat, offer a quick walk through the grove, or let you sample what’s in season. Just keep a few bucks cash handy, since some places don’t take cards.
(And if you’re looking to plan other day trips, check out this guide to local attractions:
What to Expect on a Citrus Grove Tour
Each grove is a little different, but most tours share a few common threads:
- Friendly, down-to-earth guides
- Seasonal fruit sampling (grapefruit in winter, oranges in spring, etc.)
- Background on the history of citrus in the Rio Grande Valley
- Walking paths or open-air trams
Dress comfy and wear closed-toe shoes. Also, bring a water bottle and sunhat—those Texas rays don’t play around, even in the cooler months.
If you visit in late winter, you might even catch the trees in bloom—citrus flowers smell incredible. It’s a really peaceful way to spend a few hours.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Citrus Groves in Mission?
The citrus season generally runs from late November through March, with different varieties ripening at different times. December and January are peak grapefruit season, while oranges usually come into their own a bit later.
Plan your visit during these months for the freshest experience. Some groves stay open year-round for tours, but fruit availability will be limited outside of season.
RVers’ Tips for Visiting Citrus Groves
- Pack a tote or two. Many groves let you pick and pay by the pound.
- Ask questions. Farmers and workers are usually full of great stories.
- Don’t forget bug spray. Especially after rain, the groves can get a little buggy.
- Buy extra. Fruit from the grove lasts longer and tastes better than store-bought.
- Store smart. Keep citrus in a cool spot in your RV—but not the fridge, which can mess with flavor.
How Citrus Ties Into the Local Culture
Citrus isn’t just an agricultural product in Mission—it’s woven into the culture. You’ll see citrus-themed murals, grapefruit-shaped floats during the Fiesta parade, and tons of citrus-infused dishes at local restaurants.
You might even want to bring some back to the RV and try out a few local-inspired recipes, like:
- Grilled grapefruit with honey and chili
- Orange-zest pancakes
- Lemon-infused iced tea
Other Citrus-Themed Attractions Nearby
Texas Citrus Fiesta Headquarters
Learn the full history of citrus in Mission. The small museum here includes vintage citrus labels, photographs, and festival memorabilia. Not super fancy, but worth a quick visit.
McAllen Farmers Market
While not in a grove, this is a great spot to grab citrus straight from local growers. Every Saturday, rain or shine. It’s an easy 15-minute drive from the RV park.
Why RVers Love These Tours
There’s something about RV life that pairs perfectly with fresh air and local flavor. Touring citrus groves hits both. It’s relaxing, affordable, and feels like a throwback to simpler times. And for snowbirds spending the winter down south, it’s a fun way to stay active without overdoing it.
The RV park’s proximity to all these groves makes it super convenient too. You can be sipping fresh juice in the grove by mid-morning and back at your rig for lunch.
FAQs: Visiting Citrus Groves in Mission, TX
Q: Are the citrus grove tours kid-friendly?
A: Most definitely. Kids love picking fruit, and the open space is great for walking or running around.
Q: Do I need to book a tour in advance?
A: Some places recommend it—especially during peak season. But many smaller groves allow walk-ins.
Q: How much do the tours cost?
A: Prices vary, but expect to pay around $5–$15 per person for a guided tour. Fruit is extra, usually charged by weight.
Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Check with the grove. Some allow leashed pets; others have stricter policies due to farm rules.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Comfy clothes, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection. Nothing fancy.
In Summary
If you’re staying in Mission, TX during citrus season, don’t miss the chance to walk through a working grove. It’s a unique, sensory experience that offers a taste (literally) of local life. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or just lookin’ for something peaceful to do near your RV, citrus grove tours are one of those hidden gems that’ll stick with you.
And hey—there’s something real satisfying about biting into an orange you picked yourself, ya know?
For more local tips and seasonal fun around Mission, check out our Explore page here: