Situated just 45 minutes north of Birmingham in Cullman, Alabama, 4D Family Farm stands as a testament to the vision and hard work of Cullman natives Beth and Rusty Daniel, who began this venture 12 years ago with little more than a dream and a metal building. As they celebrate more than two decades of family and farming, their dream has blossomed into a beloved local destination.
A Dream Realized
Beth, a former kindergarten teacher, and Rusty, who worked as a field man in the poultry industry on his way to becoming a poultry farmer, were inspired to create 4D Farm after starting their family. “After having our first child, I knew I wanted to be at home,” says Beth. “I took maternity leave for our third son that ended up lasting two years. I loved teaching, but every single day of those two years I prayed for a way to be able to financially stay home and homeschool. So that’s how this all started, just a prayer to be a stay-at-home mom.” That prayer marked the beginning of their farming journey, which now includes the couple plus their kids—three boys and a girl—and the chickens they raise for Pilgrim’s Pride, based in Guntersville.
Growing Together
Over the years, 4D Family Farm has expanded significantly, offering a variety of attractions each season so there’s something for everyone. Come autumn, the pumpkin patch and all its offerings are a huge hit for visitors. “The farm has grown so much! We add activities each year, and we have no plans of stopping,” says Beth. “There is a corn maze, tubing slide, swing ride, barrel train, obstacle course, jumping pillow, jump pad, kiddie ziplines, slides, play areas, and a huge corn barn. This year, we added apple cannons, paintball, and a new ride, and we’ve also added more lights to our Goblin Glow. We already have our list ready for next year!” The farm's seasonal offerings also include delicious fall treats and even a diving dog show. This year, they’re excited to present fireworks shows the last three Fridays of October.
Family First
The farm’s success is intertwined with the family’s commitment to working together. While running a seasonal business presents challenges—particularly during the hectic fall months—Beth emphasizes the return. “Fall is hard because we work very long hours. There have been times where our kids have even been out working, helping to put the finishing touches on a new attraction into the morning. It's hard and tiring, but it’s also very rewarding. This is our life, and we love it,” she says. Their children, who have grown up helping on the farm, have developed a strong work ethic and a sense of pride in what they’ve built. “It’s created so many memories for our children. They love opening the farm and all have plans to continue long after we retire,” Beth continues. “Spending so much time together is definitely a highlight. I’m not going to lie and say it’s always smiles, but the memories, they do always bring smiles. Our family is everything to us, and we’re so thankful for the time we get working alongside our children.”
Beth acknowledges the bittersweet part of working together is how quickly the years have flown by. “Our oldest was only 7 the first year we opened. I can remember him being up before field trips to clean the gem mine sluice, and then working well after dark getting ready for the next day,” she says. “He always had so much pride in the farm. We had less help in those early years, and he was a trooper! This will be our first year opening without Lane here to help us, because it’s his first year of college and he is on the school’s rodeo team. We’re excited for him, but we miss him a great deal.”
Balancing Act
Finding balance between family and business can be tricky. The farm is busiest this time of year, but the off months allow for more family time. “I’m not sure we [balance it] very well,” Beth admits. “This is seasonal, and we are all in from August through November. Luckily, the rest of the year we have lots of family time. All our children rodeo, so we enjoy that aspect of our lives while we continue to work on the farm, just at a slower pace.” Still, she acknowledges the fruits far outweigh any drawbacks. “I love homeschooling our kids and the flexibility that it offers,” she says. “The time we get to spend working together really is priceless. I can’t imagine any other life for our family.”
Looking Ahead
The future holds endless possibilities for 4D Family Farm. With so many ideas in the pipeline, the family is committed to continuously enhancing the farm for visitors. “We probably have 10 years’ worth of plans and love making the farm better for our customers!” says Beth. They take pride in being recognized as Cullman County Farm Family of the Year, a testament to their hard work and dedication. “That was an honor for our family. We love this town and the people who live here.”
Join the Fun
As the fall season approaches, excitement builds for another year of hosting families. Guests can expect pumpkins, of course, along with all the seasonal activities in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that has become a hallmark of 4D Family Farm. In an era where quality family time can feel fleeting, the Daniel family exemplifies how passion, hard work, and commitment to each other can lead to a thriving business that brings joy to many. “Fall is so fun here,” says Beth. “We’ll have the pumpkins, photo ops, and the maze, but also yummy treats like apple cider slushies, apple cider donuts, and caramel apples!” Plus, you’ll experience the heart and soul that Beth, Rusty, and their children pour into every aspect of their farm.
4D Family Farm is located at 7066 Country Road 703 in Cullman. For more information about hours, tickets, and activities, visit 4dfamilyfarm.com.