National Park Service History of the Boyhood FarmThe Boyhood Farm, once owned by Earl Carter, Jimmy Carter's father, has a rich history dating back to 1928 when it came under the Carters' ownership. For over two decades, Earl Carter cultivated a variety of crops, including corn, cotton, peanuts, and sugar cane, alongside maintaining a large family garden. Young Jimmy Carter called this place home from the age of four until he left for college, and it holds some of his earliest and most cherished memories. A Memorable StartOne of Jimmy Carter's earliest and most vivid recollections revolves around the day they moved into their new home. "The front door was locked when we got there, and daddy realized that he had forgotten the key. He tried to raise one of the windows that opened onto the front porch, but a wooden bar on the inside let it come up only about six inches. So he slid me through the crack and I came around to unlock the door from the inside. The approval of my father for my first useful act has always been one of my most vivid memories." - Jimmy Carter, An Hour Before Daylight A Step Back in TimeIn the year 2000, the Boyhood Farm became an integral part of a park. The farm underwent a restoration process to recreate its appearance as it was before electricity was installed in 1938. Visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll along the walking path, with informative wayside exhibits at various points to provide insight into the history and significance of the farm. For a more immersive experience, there are audio stations where you can hear Jimmy Carter himself sharing his childhood stories. Farm Life TodayThe Boyhood Farm continues to thrive with the same agricultural spirit. The farm is home to honeybees, goats, chickens, mules, and farm cats, all actively contributing to the authentic farm atmosphere. Crops are still grown periodically throughout the year, which include sugarcane, cotton, corn, tomatoes, and, of course, peanuts, a crop closely associated with the Carters. Visitors can witness firsthand the timeless charm of farm life and the enduring connection to Jimmy Carter's roots. General Information 402 Old Plains Hwy, Plains, GA 31780
Rear Parking Lot: Pulling through the main gate and following the road to the comfort station brings you to the main parking lot at the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm. This circular parking lot has spaces for passenger vehicles as well as oversized vehicles. Passenger vehicles are asked not to park in the RV/Bus parking spots. Park on paved surfaces only.
If the gate is closed or half closed, and you are in a passenger car, then proceed down the road and park next to the Carter Home on the paved spot on the side of the road. Front Parking Lot: A spot on the west side of the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Home. Diagonal parking allows 4 vehicles to park. No RVs, buses, motor coaches, or large vehicles. There is no place to turn around and large vehicles must go 1 mile, on a partial dirt road, to get back to the main highway. Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Monday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Tuesday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Wednesday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Thursday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Friday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Saturday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Holiday closures and seasonal exceptions. Men's and Women's restrooms are both wheelchair accessible. Restrooms can be accessed from outside the comfort station near the parking lot.
One water fountain is located outside the comfort station and is wheelchair accessible.
Free Wifi is available on the porch area of the comfort station at the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm.
Area Highlights Learn about the Boyhood Home.
The Boyhood Farm is home to goats, mules, and chickens.
View the farm animals. Learn more about the Clark House.
Learn more about the commissary.
Learn more about the blacksmith shop.
Plan Your Visit
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Last updated: October 20, 2023