The arrival of fall can be detected in two ways: cooler weather and pumpkin patches. Both are welcome signs that the dog days of summer are behind us, and we generally welcome the cooler weather with open arms, since we can spend more time outdoors without that sweltering heat. Of course, pumpkin patches are also a welcome sign of fall, and finding the perfect one is a special task every year. Not sure which patch is perfect for picking? Here are some of our favorite pumpkin patches in Mississippi that have the perfect pumpkin waiting just for you.

1. Seward Farms, Lucedale

This working farm offers tons of fall fun. In addition to their pumpkin barn, which opens in October, Seward Farms also includes a corn maze, hay rides, a cow train, a giant jumping pillow, tube slide, corn cannon, farm animals, the "Field of Fright," and more.

2. Cedar Hill Farm, Hernando

One of our favorite Mississippi pumpkin patches, you could easily spend the entire day at Cedar Hill Farm. Whether you’re hoping to actually pick a pumpkin straight from the patch or just looking to purchase the perfect pumpkin from their already pulled pile, Cedar Hill Farm. is for you. Aside from the pumpkin patch, the fall festivities continue thanks to the Hay Maze and the Corn Maize. And if you work up an appetite, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the farm’s Country Kitchen.

3. Farmer Jim’s Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze, Rolling Fork

This three-acre pumpkin patch in Mississippi features thousands of pumpkins for the picking and includes everything from your basic orange pumpkins to gourds and heirloom pumpkins. Don’t feel like strolling around the patch in search of the perfect pumpkin? That’s fine too as pre-picked pumpkins are available for purchase.

4. Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo

Spanning over 200 acres, the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is filled with fun, and during the entire month of October that fun includes one of the best pumpkin patches in Mississippi.

5. Mitchell Farms, Collins

Open every weekend during the fall, the pumpkin patch at Mitchell Farms guarantees fun that the whole family will enjoy. After picking your favorite pumpkin from the patch, you’ll be able to choose from several activities from which to take part, including, not one but two, corn mazes.

6. Bull Bottom Farms, Duck Hill

One of the pumpkin patches in Mississippi, this farm pulls out all the stops for a family-friendly fall. From the end of September until the beginning of November, Bull Bottom Farms will be putting on their Fall Festival which, in addition to a pumpkin patch, includes hay rides, a giant slide, a jumbo jumping pillow, a corn maze, a cow train, an animal park, and much more.

7. Wise Family Farm, Pontotoc

It is during the fall season when the Wise Family Farm really comes to life thanks to a ton of fun activities, which include the "Pick-Ur-Own" pumpkin patch. Can’t wait to decorate your find? Well, you’re in the right place as this pumpkin farm in Mississippi has a Pumpkin Painting Station that includes paint, brushes, and assistance if needed.

8. Pumpkin Patch Farms, Blue Mountain

In business for nearly 20 years, Pumpkin Patch Farms will continue the fun this fall with a number of family friendly activities, which of course include a hay ride to the pumpkin patch where you’re bound to find the perfect pumpkin. And since you’ll inevitably work up an appetite after spending the day on the farm, be sure to stop by the on-site deli and bakery, Daisy Mae’s.

9. Lazy U Farm, Macon

Hoping to educate others on "what country livin' is all about," Lazy U Farm offers visitors a real farm experience, complete with picking fresh produce and milking cows. In celebration of the fall, the farm opens up its Mississippi pumpkin patch and corn maze.

Visited any of these pumpkin patches? Know of any others that should be added to this list? Tell us in the comments section below! Once you have your perfect pumpkin, it's time to do a little leaf-peeping. Check out these scenic country roads in Mississippi that come alive in the fall.