
Thunder Oak Cheese Farm
Award-winning Gouda cheese and fresh curds from a family farm, showcasing local Ontario flavors. A must-visit for cheese lovers!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cheese making tours available

Thunder Oak Cheese Farm
Best Time
Cheese making tours available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Award-winning Gouda cheese and fresh curds from a family farm, showcasing local Ontario flavors. A must-visit for cheese lovers!
"It's a great place to stop and check out. Not far from Thunder Bay!"

🧀 Grab the Cheese Curds!
Don't leave without trying the fresh cheese curds – they're a local obsession!
📅 Check Tour Times
Visit Mon, Wed, or Fri for a chance to see cheese being made.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Gouda
Farm Shop
Experience the rich, all-natural Gouda cheeses, from mild to extra-aged. A true taste of Dutch tradition in Canada.

Squeaky Cheese Curds
Farm Shop
Indulge in fresh, squeaky cheese curds – a local delicacy that's a perfect snack. Try them warm for an unforgettable experience.

Farm Views & Local Goods
Farm Shop & surrounding fields
Enjoy scenic views of the farmland and browse a selection of local Canadian products, including syrup and candies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Cheese Curds!
Farm Tours & Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧀 Grab the Cheese Curds!
Don't leave without trying the fresh cheese curds – they're a local obsession!
📅 Check Tour Times
Visit Mon, Wed, or Fri for a chance to see cheese being made.
🛍️ Shop Local Goodies
Explore unique local products beyond cheese, like syrup and candy.
🚗 Easy Drive from Thunder Bay
It's a short, scenic drive from Thunder Bay – well worth the trip!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧀 Grab the Cheese Curds!
Don't leave without trying the fresh cheese curds – they're a local obsession!
📅 Check Tour Times
Visit Mon, Wed, or Fri for a chance to see cheese being made.
🛍️ Shop Local Goodies
Explore unique local products beyond cheese, like syrup and candy.
🚗 Easy Drive from Thunder Bay
It's a short, scenic drive from Thunder Bay – well worth the trip!
🥛 Lactose-Friendly Options
Many find Gouda tolerable even if lactose-intolerant.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Thunder Oak Cheese Farm for its delicious, high-quality Gouda cheeses and exceptionally fresh cheese curds. The friendly, homey customer service and the opportunity to purchase other local products are also frequently highlighted as major positives. While the farm shop is no longer on the original farm site, the scenic views and the quality of the products make it a highly recommended destination for cheese enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
"I got some real Gouda cheese. I absolutely love the product. Customer service was homey, and well done, answered all my questions on this. Being lactose free, it is a cheese I grew up with and tolerate well. I am pleased that any over quota milk production is going into a lost art. Well worth the drive and the visit."
Charlene Ross
"We stopped here on vacation because... cheese! You must get the cheese curds! Bonus if they are still warm from packing. Squeaky and flavorful. It's a great snack. They have excellent Gouda. We purchased the extra old age gouda and the Swiss. The people are super friendly! Its neat to watch the cheese making process from multiple windows in the shop. They have other Dutch items there along with local Canada syrup and other things from the area. It's a great place to stop and check out. Not far from Thunder Bay!"
Vanessa McKelvey
"Cheese shop is no longer on the actual farm, but is nearby on the same road. Awesome views across the fields.
The shop is large and spacious and full of... yes, cheese. No Monty Python cheese shop gags here. Beautiful Dutch style gouda of every type. And cheese curds so fresh they squeek.
If you are a cheese afficionado then Thunder Oak Cheese farm is the place to be.
If you time your trip appropriately, then you may arrive in time to see the days harvest being picked right off the vine."
William Ascroft
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thunder Oak Cheese Farm is conveniently located a short drive from Thunder Bay, Ontario. Most visitors report it's an easy and scenic trip, often taking less than 30 minutes by car.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for visitors at the farm shop.
While public transportation options are limited, many visitors opt for a car or taxi service from Thunder Bay. Some local tours might also include a stop here.
The farm is relatively close to other Thunder Bay area attractions like Kakabeka Falls and Silver Falls Provincial Park, making it a great addition to a day trip itinerary.
The roads leading to the farm are generally well-maintained. However, always check local road conditions, especially during winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the farm shop itself is generally free. However, if you wish to take a guided tour to see the cheese-making process, there might be a fee or specific times.
Opening hours can vary, but the farm shop is typically open daily. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, you can often witness the cheese-making process. Tours are typically offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but it's best to confirm the schedule in advance.
There is no admission fee to enter the shop and browse the products. Fees may apply for specific tours or events.
While the farm is a popular destination for in-person visits, check their website for any online ordering or shipping options if you can't make it there in person.
🎫 🧀 Cheese & Shopping
Thunder Oak Cheese Farm specializes in award-winning, all-natural Gouda cheeses in various ages and flavors, including Lavender Orange and Extra Aged Gouda. They also sell delicious cheese curds.
Cheese curds are a very popular item and are often available fresh. Visitors highly recommend getting them, especially if they are still warm from packing.
Besides cheese, the shop offers a variety of local products such as Canadian syrup, coffee beans, candies, and dried meats, making it a great place for souvenirs.
Sampling options may be available, and they sometimes offer sampler boxes with pre-cut cubes of various cheeses, which is a great way to try different flavors.
Some visitors who are lactose-free have reported tolerating Thunder Oak's Gouda well, as it's a cheese they grew up with.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic farmland views, the charming farm buildings, and of course, beautifully arranged displays of their delicious cheeses. The cheese curds themselves make for fun, candid shots!
Photography rules inside the production areas may vary. It's best to ask for permission from staff before taking pictures during a tour.
While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always be mindful of local regulations and privacy concerns. The open fields might offer good opportunities.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for capturing the farm's landscape and buildings. Midday offers bright, clear shots of the products.
Focus on close-ups of the different Gouda varieties, the texture of the cheese curds, and wider shots of the farm's picturesque setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: While the farm itself is engaging, consider combining your visit with nearby attractions like Kakabeka Falls for a full day of family-friendly exploration in the Thunder Bay area.
🧀 Cheese Aficionados
Take advantage of any sampling opportunities or sampler boxes to fully appreciate the nuances of their craft. The knowledgeable staff are often happy to answer questions and share insights into their cheese-making process.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Thunder Bay
Combine your visit with a trip to Kakabeka Falls or explore other local eateries that feature Thunder Oak's cheese curds on their menus for a well-rounded day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Gouda Making
From mild, creamy young Gouda to intensely flavored extra-aged varieties, the farm offers a spectrum of tastes. The farm's dedication to quality extends to their famous cheese curds, which are a local sensation. These fresh curds, known for their satisfying 'squeak,' are a testament to the farm's commitment to freshness and traditional production.
Beyond their signature cheeses, Thunder Oak Cheese Farm also acts as a hub for other local artisanal products. This includes items like regional maple syrup, locally roasted coffee beans, and handmade candies, offering visitors a broader taste of Northwestern Ontario's culinary landscape.
A Taste of Local Ontario
This includes popular items like authentic Canadian maple syrup, often sourced from nearby producers, and locally roasted coffee beans, perfect for a morning brew. You'll also find a variety of candies and other specialty food items that reflect the region's bounty.
By supporting Thunder Oak Cheese Farm, you're not only enjoying their exceptional cheeses but also contributing to the broader local economy and supporting other small businesses in the area. It's a true farm-to-table experience that extends beyond just dairy.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit