U-Pick at 24 Carrot Farm: An Apple Hill Farm Daytrip for Every Season

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If you’re looking for a wholesome, family-friendly farm experience near Sacramento, U-pick at 24 Carrot Farm in Placerville, California is one of those hidden gems you’ll want to return to again and again. Nestled in the scenic Apple Hill region, this small organic farm offers a hands-on way to connect with your food, enjoy the outdoors, and create meaningful memories with your kids.

Whether you’re picking juicy summer berries, gathering a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers, or searching for the perfect heirloom pumpkin in the fall, 24 Carrot Farm delivers a relaxed, authentic farm experience that feels worlds away from the busy city.

Where Is 24 Carrot Farm?

24 Carrot Farm is located at 2731 Jacquier Road in Placerville, California, about a 45-minute drive from Sacramento, making it the perfect easy day trip.

Tucked into the rolling hills of Apple Hill, the farm is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and scenic countryside views. It’s part of a larger network of farms known for seasonal experiences, but what makes this one special is its small-scale, organic, community-focused feel.

What Makes 24 Carrot Farm Unique?

Unlike larger commercial farms, 24 Carrot Farm is a certified organic, small-scale market garden that focuses on sustainability and connection.

When you visit, you’re not just picking produce—you’re stepping into a slower, more intentional way of life. The farm emphasizes:

  • Seasonal, locally grown produce
  • Sustainable and restorative farming practices
  • Direct farm-to-community connections
  • A hands-on educational experience for families

U-Pick Experiences by Season

One of the best parts about visiting 24 Carrot Farm is that every season offers something new to pick. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year:

Summer: Berry Picking

During the summer months, the farm opens its fields for berry picking, including:

  • Blackberries (around $7 per pound)
  • Raspberries (around $10 per pound)

Visitors often rave about the sweetness and abundance of the berries, making it a rewarding experience even if the patch itself isn’t huge.

This is one of the best times to visit with kids — a great way to spend summer break days outside. They usually open up the berries for u-pick in July.

Late Summer: U-Pick Flowers

If you love fresh flowers, this is one of the most charming experiences at the farm. Check their website in early July for the beginning of the u-pick flower season.

For about $7, you can cut 10 stems from a colorful mix that may include:

  • Sunflowers
  • Zinnias
  • Marigolds
  • Snapdragons
  • Bachelor’s buttons
  • Celosia

Walking through rows of vibrant blooms and building your own bouquet is both relaxing and incredibly photogenic—perfect for Pinterest-worthy content.

Late Summer: Cherry Tomatoes

Later in the season, around August, you can pick your own cherry tomatoes for around $4 per pound.

Varieties often include:

  • Sungold
  • Super Sweet 100
  • Indigo Cherry
  • Black Cherry

These sun-ripened tomatoes are perfect for snacking, salads, or homemade pasta sauces.

Fall: Pumpkin Patch

Fall is when 24 Carrot Farm truly shines.

Instead of pre-cut pumpkins, you get to cut your own heirloom pumpkins straight from the vine, priced around $1.50 per pound.

Unique varieties include:

  • Cinderella pumpkins
  • Fairytale pumpkins
  • Jarrahdale
  • Baby Bear
  • Turks Turban

Families especially love the oversized wagons, which make it easy (and fun!) to transport your pumpkins across the field.

What to Expect When You Visit

Visiting 24 Carrot Farm feels more like spending time at a friend’s countryside property than going to a commercial attraction.

Here’s what you can expect:

No Reservations Needed

Most U-pick experiences operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making it an easy spontaneous outing.

Seasonal Availability

Each crop has a specific window, so it’s best to check ahead before you go. The farm typically operates April through November.

Farm Stand Shopping

In addition to U-pick, there’s a charming farm stand stocked with:

  • Fresh produce
  • Herbs and plants
  • Locally made goods like bread and honey

Relaxed, Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The farm includes open space, nature areas, and even a small pond where kids can explore and unwind. My son was completely obsessed with looking for frogs in the pond!

Tips for Visiting 24 Carrot Farm

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

Go Early in the Season

Because the farm is smaller, popular crops can be picked over quickly. Visiting early ensures the best selection.

Bring Your Own Basket (Optional)

While containers are usually available, bringing your own adds to the experience and reduces waste.

Bring Your Own Wagon

During our visit to the farm for u-pick pumpkins, they ran out of wagons for visitors. Luckily we came prepared and brought our own, but others had to carry heavy pumpkins across the fields.

Dress for the Farm

Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat—especially in summer. There’s no shade while out picking in the fields.

Bring a Blanket for Little Ones

If you’re visiting the pumpkin patch, a blanket in the wagon can make it extra cozy for babies and toddlers.

Don’t Forget Your Camera

Between the flowers, pumpkins, and golden-hour light, this farm is incredibly photogenic.

Why Families Love U-Pick at 24 Carrot Farm

For families, this isn’t just a farm visit—it’s an experience that combines fun, learning, and connection.

Kids can:

  • Pick their own food
  • Run freely in open spaces
  • Learn about seasonal agriculture
  • Engage with nature in a hands-on way

Parents love it because it’s:

  • Affordable
  • Low-key and uncrowded
  • Screen-free entertainment
  • A meaningful way to spend time together

Pair Your Visit with an Apple Hill Day Trip

Because 24 Carrot Farm is located in Apple Hill, it pairs perfectly with a full day of exploring.

Nearby, you can:

  • Visit apple orchards
  • Stop at local wineries
  • Enjoy bake shops and cider tastings
  • Explore scenic backroads

It’s an ideal fall outing, but honestly, Apple Hill is worth visiting year-round.

More U-Pick Farms Near Sacramento

We have a complete guide to over 35 u-pick farms that are daytrip driving distance from Sacramento, along with the below super detailed guides:

Final Thoughts: Is 24 Carrot Farm Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—especially if you love authentic, small-farm experiences over crowded attractions.

24 Carrot Farm offers something increasingly rare:

  • A slower pace
  • A connection to nature
  • A hands-on way to experience seasonal living

Whether you’re picking berries in the summer, flowers in late July, tomatoes in August, or pumpkins in October, every visit feels a little different—and that’s what keeps people coming back.

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