U-Pick Mandarin Picking in Newcastle – Just 45 Minutes Outside Sacramento!
There’s something magical about spending a sunny day with your family in a mandarin orchard, picking fresh fruits right from the trees. It’s not just about gathering mandarins; it’s about creating lasting memories, enjoying the outdoors, and supporting Newcastle’s vibrant local farming community.
Mandarin picking is an activity the whole family can enjoy, especially my kids! They love finding ready to eat mandarins to fill their buckets. Meanwhile as a parent I love getting my kids away from the TV and providing a chance to connect with nature, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the sunshine.
Plus, knowing that mandarins are a key part of Newcastle’s local economy adds an extra layer of satisfaction—you’re not just enjoying the fruits of your labor; you’re helping the community thrive.
Getting to Newcastle from Sacramento
Traveling to Newcastle from Sacramento is a breeze, making it an ideal destination for a fun day trip or weekend getaway. Located just about 30 miles northeast of Sacramento, Newcastle is easily accessible by car via Interstate 80. The scenic drive takes roughly 30-40 minutes and offers picturesque views of the rolling hills and countryside as you approach this charming rural town.
New to Fruit Picking? No Problem!
If you’ve never tried mandarin picking (or any fruit picking), don’t worry—it’s simpler than you might think! Newcastle’s friendly farmers are there to guide you. They’ll answer your questions, share tips for finding the best mandarins, and provide you with buckets to collect your haul. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a first-timer, the experience is always rewarding.
Plan Your Visit: Key Tips for Mandarin Season
Mandarin orchards are scattered across Newcastle, offering plenty of options for your adventure. However, timing is everything—the mandarin season runs from November to January, so plan accordingly.
Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth experience:
Make Reservations:
Many farms require advance bookings, and spots fill up quickly. To stay ahead of the game, sign up for your favorite farm’s newsletter. They’ll notify you when the season starts and provide booking instructions.
Book During Prime Peak Season:
If you wait too late in the season, the farms could get picked over which will cause the farm to close u-pick earlier than expected. In contrast, if you book too early, the fruit won’t be ripe and ready to pick. Ideally you’ll want to plan for the peak season, right around the 3rd week of November.
Come Prepared:
Wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen, and don’t forget your hat for those sunny days. Some orchards even allow you to pack a picnic for a full day out in nature!
Check Farm Policies:
Each orchard may have unique rules, so it’s worth reviewing their guidelines beforehand to make the most of your visit.
U-Pick Mandarin Farms Near Newcastle
- Sunset Ridge Fine Fruits – They have u-pick available by reservation. All of the photos in this blog post were taken at Sunset Ridge.
- Newcastle Mandarin Ranch – They have u-pick available by reservation.
- Mandarin Hill Orchards – They have u-pick available by reservation.
- Black Oak Farm – You can shop a variety of types of mandarins during a farm visit, but they don’t have u-pick available.
- S and J Mandarin Grove – You can visit the farm and buy fresh fruit, but no u-pick for customers. They specialize in the popular organic Owari Satsuma mandarin oranges.
- Mad Mandarines – They don’t offer u-pick, but club members will receive invites to exclusive orchard events.
- Thomas Ranch – You can visit the farm and buy fresh fruit, but no u-pick for customers.
- Burgeson Family Farm-Mandarin Farm – Google has listed this farm as permanently closed, but it was actually just purchased by a new family who plan to continue the farm. It will have a new name, but this farm does plan on re-opening.
Nearby Spots to Eat in Placer County
After a fun-filled day of mandarin picking in Placer County, satisfy your appetite with some nearby dining options.
The Cheese Shop in Newcastle makes their famous “Rat Trap Sandwich” which is packed with cheese and deli metas, and many other freshly prepared sandwiches, perfect for a casual and flavorful post-picking meal.
If you’re craving something fresh and hearty, Mendocino Farms in Roseville serves up creative sandwiches, vibrant salads, and farm-to-table fare that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.
For a classic cheeseburger, head to Shake Shack in Roseville for their signature burgers, crispy crinkle-cut fries, and creamy shakes—a delicious way to end your day in Placer County.
Placer County Mountain Mandarin Festival
The Placer County Mountain Mandarin Festival is a beloved annual event that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage and its famously sweet mandarins. Held each November in Auburn, just a short drive from Newcastle, the festival brings together locals and visitors for a weekend of delicious food, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can sample and purchase fresh mandarins straight from local orchards, savor mandarin-infused treats, and explore artisan crafts and unique gifts. From cooking demonstrations featuring mandarins to live music and contests, the festival offers something for everyone, all while showcasing the vibrant culture and community spirit of Placer County.
More U-Pick Day Trips from Sacramento
Looking for more hands-on adventures near Sacramento? These U-pick destinations offer fresh produce, family fun, and a chance to connect with nature—all within a short drive from the city!
U-Pick Lavender in Apple Hill – Lavender Blue Harvest Days at Bluestone Meadow Farm
Our blog post explores the Lavender Blue Harvest Days at Bluestone Meadow Farm in Apple Hill, a summer event where visitors can pick their own lavender and enjoy the farm’s serene, fragrant fields. It offers tips for making the most of the experience, including the best times to visit, what to bring, and the variety of lavender-inspired products available for purchase. The post highlights the relaxing and picturesque atmosphere of Bluestone Meadow Farm, making it a perfect destination for a unique summer outing that combines natural beauty, hands-on activities, and locally crafted lavender goods.
U-Pick Strawberries at Granny May’s in Granite Bay
The blog post provides a guide to U-pick strawberry experiences at Granny May’s in Granite Bay, a family-friendly farm located just outside Sacramento. It highlights the joy of picking fresh, juicy strawberries straight from the fields and offers helpful tips for planning your visit, such as what to bring, the best times to go, and farm policies. The post also emphasizes the farm’s welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and anyone looking to connect with nature. With additional recommendations on nearby activities, it’s a comprehensive resource for making the most of a day at Granny May’s.
U-Pick Blueberries in Apple Hill – Your Guide to the Summer Lavender Blue Harvest Days
Our guide highlights the summer Lavender Blue Harvest Days at Apple Hill, where visitors can enjoy picking fresh blueberries while soaking in the picturesque beauty of lavender fields. It provides a detailed guide on the U-pick experience, including tips for planning your visit, farm locations, and what to expect during the event. The post emphasizes the charm of combining blueberry picking with exploring local shops, sampling farm-fresh treats, and experiencing the tranquil ambiance of Apple Hill during the summer season.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re a Newcastle local or just visiting, mandarin picking is a delightful way to experience the region’s agricultural charm. Gather your loved ones, book your spot, and get ready for a day of fun, fresh fruit, and unforgettable memories!
