CHAPTICO, Md. — A Southern Maryland holiday favorite is growing into a new era. After a successful return last year, Basford Creek Tree Farm is reopening for the 2025 Christmas season—this time under women-led management.
Founded in 2004 by James Horstkamp, the Chaptico farm became a popular destination for families seeking fresh-cut Christmas trees. For more than a decade, the Horstkamps and their children—Daniel, Chris, and Madi—nurtured thousands of trees before pausing operations in 2016 to allow the fields to recover.
The farm reopened in 2024, drawing community support that inspired the family to commit to a full-time revival. This year, 1,500 new Blue Spruce seedlings have been planted to ensure Basford Creek Tree Farm can continue supplying fresh, quality trees.
“After the 2024 season, we knew we had to plant more,” said Farm Manager Megan Pobst. “It takes about ten years before those trees are ready, but we’re investing now to make sure families have a place to find a beautiful, local tree.”
The farm’s new leadership reflects a changing chapter rooted in tradition and friendship. Madi Horstkamp, daughter of the original owners, now operates the farm alongside Megan Pobst, her longtime friend and Chris Horstkamp’s partner.
The two have spent years working side by side on the farm and, through that shared experience, built a friendship that’s now the foundation of the business. Together, they’re ushering in a new era for Basford Creek, one that’s both women-led and deeply rooted in family tradition.
“The community really showed up for us last year,” says Madi. “That support meant everything. Megan and I love this land, and we love sharing it with others. We want the farm to be a place where people feel connected.”
Looking Beyond Christmas
While Christmas trees will always be at the heart of Basford Creek, Madi and Megan have big plans for the farm’s future. They’re working toward turning it into a year-round destination where families can enjoy the beauty of Southern Maryland in every season.
Their plans include expanding the fields with native plants, supporting local pollinators, and hosting community events focused on sustainability and education.
“We want Basford Creek to be more than a farm,” says Megan. “We want it to be a place where people can come learn, explore, and make memories all year long.”
Come Celebrate the Season
Southern Maryland families are invited to kick off the holiday season at Basford Creek Tree Farm. The farm will open the weekend after Thanksgiving and welcome visitors every weekend through December 21.
Come meet Madi and Megan, breathe in that fresh evergreen scent, and start (or continue) your family’s Christmas tree tradition at the newly revived Basford Creek Tree Farm.
Basford Creek Tree Farm
📍 36498 Mill Point Rd, Chaptico, MD 20621
📅 Open Weekends: Nov. 29–30, Dec. 6–7, Dec. 13–14, Dec. 20-21 9:00AM-5:00PM
