Top 35+ Farms to U-Pick in Sacramento – Fruit, Flowers and More!

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If you’re looking for a wholesome, memory-making activity in Northern California, nothing beats spending a day at one of the many farms to U-pick in Sacramento. Our family never misses an opportunity to spend a day at a local farm.

From juicy strawberries and peaches to colorful flower fields and pumpkins in the fall, Sacramento’s surrounding farmland offers some of the best pick-your-own experiences in California.

Whether you’re planning a weekend outing with kids, a fun date idea, or simply want the freshest produce possible, this guide will walk you through the best U-pick farms near Sacramento—plus tips, seasonal guides, and everything you need to know before you go.

What Is a U-Pick Farm?

A U-pick (or “you-pick”) farm allows visitors to harvest their own fruits, vegetables, or flowers directly from the fields. It’s a form of agritourism that connects families to local agriculture while offering fresher, often more affordable produce than grocery stores.

Instead of buying pre-picked items, you get to wander the fields, fill your basket, and enjoy the experience of farm-to-table in its purest form.

Why U-Pick Farms in Sacramento Are So Popular

Sacramento sits in the heart of California’s agricultural region, making it the perfect place for U-pick adventures. With nearby areas like Yolo County, Placer County, and Elk Grove, you’ll find farms offering everything from berries to vegetables and even flowers.

Here’s why families love it:

  • Fresh, seasonal produce straight from the source
  • Affordable outdoor activity for kids
  • Hands-on learning experience about food
  • Beautiful photo opportunities (hello, Pinterest!)
  • Support for local farmers

From spring through fall, there’s always something in season to pick.

Best Time to Go U-Picking in Sacramento

Timing is everything when it comes to U-pick farms. Always check the farms’ websites and social media to see when they are opening up to the public for the season. Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:

Spring (April–June)

  • Strawberries
  • Early flowers
  • Some vegetables

Summer (June–August)

  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
  • Tomatoes
  • Corn

Fall (September–November)

  • Pumpkins
  • Mandarines
  • Apples (nearby regions)
  • Late-season vegetables
  • Day after Thanksgiving is the big day to u-cut your own Christmas tree!

Best Farms to U-Pick Fruit in Sacramento

Here are some of the top U-pick farms in and around Sacramento that are worth adding to your list:

Granny May’s Strawberry Farm in Granite Bay

One of the most beloved U-pick farms near Sacramento, Granny May’s is known for its sweet, juicy strawberries and family-friendly atmosphere. This farm has become a seasonal tradition for many local families.

Expect wide fields, classic farm vibes, and lots of families enjoying the sunshine. Peak strawberry season runs in late spring, followed by blackberry picking in early summer.

Pro tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.

Yumm Strawberry Farm in West Sacramento & Elk Grove

If you want a convenient and accessible U-pick experience, Yumm Strawberry Farm is a great option. With locations close to Sacramento, it’s perfect for a quick outing.

  • Best for: Strawberries
  • Season: Late spring to early summer. Look for April announcement on Instagram to opening the u-pick season.
  • Hours: Typically open daily during peak season

This farm is known for its easy layout and consistently fresh berries. It’s ideal if you’re bringing younger kids who may not want to walk too far.

VanderHelm Farms in Oakdale/Citrus Heights Area

A local favorite that announces its opening dates in April, VanderHelm is a powerhouse for variety. They specialize in high-quality fruit and a family-friendly atmosphere.

  • What to Pick: Strawberries (April–July), Blueberries (May–August), and Cherries (May–June).
  • The Vibe: This is a “serious” picking farm. The rows are well-maintained, and they offer 15 varieties of blueberries alone.
  • Pro Tip: They often host “Saturday Strawberry Picks” in April before the full season kicks off in May. Check their social media for flash-opening alerts.

Daisy Creek Farms in Galt

Daisy Creek Farms in Galt is a hidden gem for organic U-pick near Sacramento, offering a wide variety of fruits and berries grown without chemicals or pesticides. This family-owned farm focuses on sustainable practices, making it a great choice for anyone looking for truly fresh, clean produce.

Throughout the season, you’ll find strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and even peaches, plums, and nectarines depending on what’s ripe.

American River Cherry Company in Placerville

For those willing to drive toward the foothills, American River Cherry Company is a family-owned gem offers an unforgettable experience.

  • What to Pick: Four varieties of cherries and seven varieties of berries.
  • The Experience: They have an idyllic one-acre lawn under tall pine trees with hammocks and picnic tables. It’s the perfect spot to turn a picking trip into a full afternoon outing.
  • Season: Typically opens around Memorial Day.

Amber Oaks Berry Farm in Auburn

Located just outside Sacramento in Auburn, Amber Oaks Berry Farm offers a more relaxed, scenic U-pick experience.

  • Best for: Berries, tomatoes, mandarins, and more
  • Season: Varies year-round depending on crops. Check their website before heading out because sometimes they require an appointment.
  • Family-friendly: Yes

This farm offers a wide variety of produce, making it a great option if you want more than just strawberries.

The Cloverleaf Farm in Davis

If you’re searching for a true farm-to-table experience, The Cloverleaf Farm in Davis offers one of the most authentic U-pick peach experiences near Sacramento. This small, organic orchard specializes in stone fruits, with peaches being the highlight of their summer harvest.

  • Best for: Peaches and organic fruit picking
  • Season: Summer (typically July–August)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~25 minutes

U-pick events are typically held on select weekend mornings with limited-capacity. Sign up for their email newsletter to get alerted to when they will be opening up to the public.

Sunset Ridge Fine Fruits in Newcastle

If you’re looking for a unique winter U-pick experience near Sacramento, Sunset Ridge —also known as Got Mandarins—is a must-visit citrus orchard where you can pick your own mandarins straight from the tree.

This family-owned orchard features thousands of citrus trees, including Satsuma Owari mandarins, known for their easy-to-peel skin and super sweet flavor. U-pick is offered throughout the season, but reservations are typically required due to high demand, making it a more relaxed and less crowded experience.

Rainbow Camino Ridge in Camino

Rainbow Camino Ridge is a hidden gem within the Apple Hill region, offering a short but memorable U-pick blueberry experience each summer. Part of the Rainbow Orchards family, this scenic foothill farm combines fresh fruit picking with beautiful panoramic views.

This farm offers both U-pick and pre-picked blueberries, with several sweet varieties available throughout the short harvest window. Because the season is brief—often limited to just a few weekends in late June—planning ahead is essential. Reservations are typically required, helping keep the experience relaxed and less crowded.

Best Farms to U-Pick Vegetables in Sacramento

Davis Ranch U-Pick in Sloughhouse

Davis Ranch is famous for its sweet corn, but their U-pick experience goes beyond that. It’s one of the best places to pick vegetables in the Sacramento area.

  • Best for: Sweet corn, vegetables, pumpkins
  • Season: June through mid-November
  • Vibe: Classic working farm

They typically open U-pick mid-summer, with peak harvests later in the season.

Don’t miss: Their fresh corn—it’s a local favorite!

Best Farms to U-Pick Flowers in Sacramento

Heirloom Acres Flower Farm

Looking for something a little different? Flower picking at Heirloom Acres Flower Farm is a magical alternative to fruit picking—especially for photos.

  • Best for: U-pick flowers
  • Season: June–September
  • Perfect for: Photos, girls’ days, family outings

Bring a basket and create your own bouquet straight from the field.

Outta Pocket Farm in Sacramento

You don’t even have to leave the city limits for this one. Nestled in the Pocket neighborhood, Outta Pocket Farm is a hidden urban sanctuary.

  • What to Pick: Flowers (Dahlias, Sunflowers, Zinnias) and seasonal produce.
  • Why Visit: It’s incredibly convenient for Sacramento residents. They focus on “farm to vase” experiences, providing the snips and buckets you need to build a professional-looking bouquet.

Park Winters in Winters

For a more upscale, “boutique” farming experience, head west to Park Winters.

  • What to Pick: Exotic flower varieties and heirloom tomatoes (the latter usually peaks in July).
  • The Vibe: High-end agritourism. The Flower Farm Pavilion offers drinks and snacks with a view of the Yolo countryside. It’s a popular spot for “picking parties” and birthdays.

The Flower Farm in Loomis

If you’re looking for a unique twist on farms to U-pick in Sacramento, the flower field at The Flower Farm Gift Shop in Loomis offers a beautiful “farm-to-vase” experience. Instead of fruits or vegetables, you can wander through blooming fields and hand-pick your own custom bouquet.

  • Best for: U-pick flowers and photo-worthy outings
  • Season: Late spring through fall
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~30 minutes

The seasonal flower field is open during the warmer months, giving visitors the chance to stroll through rows of colorful blooms and create their own arrangements. Many guests love pairing their visit with the on-site café, winery, or gift shop, turning it into a full, relaxing day on the farm.

Lillard’s Lavenders in Lincoln

For one of the most peaceful and unique farms to U-pick near Sacramento, Lillard’s Lavenders offers a dreamy lavender field experience that feels straight out of Provence.

  • Best for: U-pick lavender and scenic summer outings
  • Season: U-pick opens in June
  • Hours: Seasonal (typically Thursday–Sunday hours vary)

Lavender U-pick typically begins in June, when the fields are in full bloom. Guests can walk through designated rows, harvest their own stems, and enjoy a calm experience.

Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln

Bunz Lavender, also known as Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, offers a charming and intimate U-pick lavender experience just outside Sacramento. This family-owned farm opens to the public during select weekends each year, creating a more exclusive and peaceful atmosphere compared to larger farms.

  • Best for: U-pick lavender and boutique farm experiences
  • Season: Late spring to early summer (typically May–July)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~40 minutes

During lavender season, visitors can stroll through fragrant fields, cut their own bundles, and shop a curated selection of handmade lavender products like oils, sachets, and gifts.

Serendipity Ranch in Lincoln

Serendipity Ranch in Lincoln offers a charming and intimate U-pick flower experience where you can create your own custom bouquet straight from the field. This small, family-run farm specializes in seasonal blooms grown from seed, including favorites like zinnias, snapdragons, and dahlias.

  • Best for: U-pick flower bouquets and small farm experiences
  • Season: Summer (U-pick typically begins in July)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~35–40 minutes

During U-pick events, visitors are invited to wander the flower fields, cut their own stems, and design a bouquet to take home. The farm provides tools like pruners and buckets, making it easy even for beginners to enjoy the experience. Because the farm is only open during scheduled U-pick hours or by appointment, visits feel more personal and less crowded.

Newcastle Lavender in Newcastle

Newcastle Lavender is a beautiful foothill farm near Sacramento that opens to the public during select Open Farm Days, offering a peaceful and scenic way to experience lavender season. Located in Newcastle, this family-run farm is known for its fragrant fields and relaxed, countryside atmosphere.

  • Best for: Lavender viewing, photos, and seasonal farm visits
  • Season: Open Farm Days typically begin in June during peak bloom
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~30 minutes

During Open Farm Days, visitors can wander through rows of blooming lavender, enjoy picnics, and take in the calming scent and scenery. Admission often includes a bundle of freshly cut lavender, with additional bundles available for purchase.

While the experience feels similar to U-pick, it’s important to note that it’s not always clearly advertised as a traditional “cut-your-own” farm, and availability of harvesting can vary depending on the season and plant health. In some years, cutting has been limited to protect newer plants, so it’s best to check ahead before visiting.

Bluestone Meadow in Placerville

Bluestone Meadow is a stunning lavender farm in the Apple Hill region that offers a seasonal U-pick experience during its annual Lavender Blue Harvest Days. Nestled in the Sierra foothills, this farm blends beautiful scenery with hands-on activities, making it one of the most unique farms to U-pick near Sacramento.

  • Best for: U-pick lavender, festivals, and family-friendly activities
  • Season: Late June through early July (peak bloom)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~50 minutes

During select harvest weekends, visitors can cut their own lavender bouquets, explore the fields, and enjoy activities like wreath-making, crafts, and even a lavender labyrinth walk.

Horton Iris Garden in Loomis

Horton Iris Garden in Loomis offers one of the most unique farms to U-pick near Sacramento, specializing in stunning iris blooms during the spring season. With over 1,300 varieties of irises, this peaceful garden feels more like a floral showcase than a traditional farm.

  • Best for: U-pick irises and seasonal flower experiences
  • Season: April–May (iris bloom season)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~20 minutes

During peak bloom, visitors can U-pick irises by the stem, making it a fun and colorful alternative to traditional fruit picking. The farm is only open during this short spring window, which makes it feel extra special and worth planning ahead for.

In addition to spring iris picking, Horton Iris Garden also offers a U-pick flower field later in the year (late summer into fall) featuring blooms like zinnias and sunflowers, along with a seasonal pumpkin patch.

Foothill Roots Farm in Meadow Vista

Foothill Roots Farm offers a more low-key and seasonal U-pick experience, with limited opportunities to gather your own flowers alongside their organic produce. This small, community-focused farm is known for its sustainably grown vegetables, but they also occasionally offer U-pick flowers as part of their on-farm experience.

  • Best for: Limited U-pick flowers and organic farm visits
  • Season: Varies (typically during the growing season)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~45 minutes

Because U-pick is not their main focus, flower picking is usually available in small batches or during select times, making each visit feel more personal and unique. The farm also has a weekly farmstand where you can shop fresh, seasonal produce and enjoy a slower-paced, community-centered atmosphere.

24 Carrot Farms in Placerville

U-pick at 24 Carrot Farm in Apple Hill is a hands-on, family-friendly experience where visitors can harvest their own fresh, organic produce straight from the fields. Seasonal offerings change throughout the year and can include strawberries, flowers, berries, tomatoes, and even pumpkins you cut directly from the vine.

While 24 Carrot Farms is a part of the Apple Hill community, it is located in a much quieter and calmer area than some of the other larger farms. So it could be your best bet for a more chill visit.

Best Farms to U-Pick Pumpkins in Sacramento

As Halloween approaches, the focus shifts to the orange gourds. While many places have “patches” (pre-picked pumpkins sitting in a field), these spots offer true U-Pick experiences where you cut the vine yourself.

Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm in Wheatland

When fall rolls around, Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm becomes one of the most popular U-pick destinations in the region.

  • Best for: Pumpkins
  • Season: Fall (September–October)
  • Known for: Massive pumpkin fields and family activities

It’s one of the largest U-pick pumpkin operations around, making it a must-visit for fall traditions.

Vierra Farms / Dave’s Pumpkin Patch in West Sacramento

If you’re looking for one of the most iconic fall farms to U-pick in Sacramento, Vierra Farms—home to Dave’s Pumpkin Patch—is a must-visit. This family-run farm transforms into a festive destination every autumn, offering a classic pumpkin patch experience with a fun, lively atmosphere.

  • Best for: Pumpkins, fall activities, family outings
  • Season: Late September–October
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~15 minutes

Beyond pumpkin picking, this farm is packed with activities like corn mazes, hayrides, and kid-friendly play areas. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an entire afternoon, making it perfect for families with younger kids.

Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.

Littlefield Farms in Loomis

Littlefield Farms in Loomis is a charming, low-key destination for pumpkin picking near Sacramento, offering a relaxed alternative to larger, busier patches. With its small-town feel and open space, it’s perfect for families who want a simple and stress-free fall outing.

  • Best for: Pumpkins and casual family visits
  • Season: Fall (September–October)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~35 minutes

The laid-back atmosphere allows kids to explore freely, making it an especially great choice for younger children.

Why you’ll love it: It’s peaceful, affordable, and ideal for capturing those cozy fall family moments without the crowds.

Nick and Ray’s Bastiao Pumpkin Farm in Elk Grove

Nick and Ray’s at Bastiao Farms in Elk Grove is a convenient and family-friendly spot for pumpkin picking near Sacramento.

  • Best for: Pumpkins and simple family fun
  • Season: Fall (September–October)
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~20 minutes

The pumpkin patch offers a variety of pumpkins, from small decorative gourds to classic carving pumpkins.

Fall Season – The Apple Hill Tradition

In Sacramento, “Fall” is synonymous with “Apple Hill.” Located in Camino and Placerville, this collective of over 50 farms becomes the center of the universe every September and October.

Farm NameBest Known ForU-Pick Offerings
24 Carrot FarmOrganic PracticesFlowers, Tomatoes, Strawberries, Pumpkins
Harris Family FarmFamily HeritageApples, Berries, Pears, Pumpkins
Pine-O-Mine RanchMountain ViewsApples, Pumpkins, Berries
Denver Dan’sHands-on FunApples (Multiple Varieties)

Spotlight on O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch in Apple Hill

This is one of the most versatile stops in Apple Hill. They offer a massive variety of pick-your-own goods that span the entire fall season.

  • The Harvest: Apples, pears, flowers, and pumpkins.
  • The Draw: Their nature trail and pumpkin patch are legendary for family photos.

Tips for Visiting U-Pick Farms

To make the most of your experience, keep these tips in mind:

1. Check Before You Go

Farms depend on weather and crop availability, so always check their website or social media before heading out.

2. Go Early

Morning visits mean cooler weather, better produce selection, and fewer crowds.

3. Wear the Right Shoes

Fields can be uneven or muddy—skip sandals and opt for sneakers.

4. Bring Essentials

  • Sunscreen
  • Hats
  • Water
  • Cash (some farms are cash-only)

5. Teach Kids Picking Etiquette

Show kids how to pick gently and avoid damaging plants—it’s part of the learning experience!

Holiday Season Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

When winter arrives, U-pick season in Sacramento doesn’t end—it simply transforms into one of the most magical traditions of the year: cutting your own Christmas tree. Just a short drive into the Sierra foothills, you’ll find family-owned farms where you can wander through evergreen fields, pick the perfect tree, and create unforgettable holiday memories.

  • Best for: Christmas trees, holiday traditions, family outings
  • Season: Late November through December
  • Distance from Sacramento: ~30–60 minutes

Farms like Snowy Peaks in Foresthill offer a classic choose-and-cut experience across more than 50 acres of trees, complete with hot cocoa, bonfires, and festive extras.

Other favorites like Pine Valley Ranch and Guthrie Tree Farm each bring their own charm—whether it’s scenic mountain views, wagon rides, or cozy farm atmospheres.

For example, Little Bear Tree Farm in Alta features 50 acres of trees along with fun extras like jeep rides and picnic areas, making it a full family experience.

If you’re planning a full holiday outing, many visitors combine their tree-cutting day with a trip to Apple Hill, where you can explore farms, bakeries, and seasonal activities. (You can also check out this Apple Hill Christmas tree farm guide for even more options.)

Pro tip: Go early in the season (right after Thanksgiving) for the best tree selection and to avoid the farm closing due to sell out. Some farms require you to book online first, so always check the website.

Final Thoughts: The Best Farms to U-Pick in Sacramento

From strawberries in the spring to pumpkins in the fall, Sacramento offers an incredible variety of U-pick farm experiences for every season. Whether you’re visiting Granny May’s for berries, Davis Ranch for sweet corn, or Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm for fall fun, there’s something for everyone.

U-pick farms are more than just places to gather produce—they’re places to slow down, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with your family.

So grab your basket, bring the kids, and get ready to experience one of the sweetest traditions Sacramento has to offer.

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