Our family has been hitting up apple orchards since 2011, and it’s hands down one of our favorite fall things to do. We’ve checked out a bunch of spots around Southern California, and there’s always something new and fun to discover.
Usually, the first week of October is the sweet spot—cooler weather and great fruit. But we’ve also gone during opening week and were surprised by how much tasty fruit was already ready to pick!
This year, during opening week, we found not just apples but juicy peaches, berries, pears, and even loganberries. Bonus!
Apple season in California runs from late August through early December, with the best picks in September and October. Whether you’re after cool heirloom apples, beautiful orchards, or a fun family day, these places have you covered. Just a heads up—some orchards can sell out early and close before the season officially ends, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check their websites for the latest updates and reservation info.
If you haven’t tried apple picking yet, now’s the perfect time—fresh air, fall vibes, and fruit straight off the tree. Can’t beat that!
Continue reading down below to find a location near you and tips on how to enjoy the day.
Sharing locations by region:
Northern California
Sebastopol (Sonoma County)
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch
13128 Occidental Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472
U-pick Gravenstein, Golden Delicious, and Rome Beauty apples (Sept–Dec). Famous for its fresh-pressed juice.
Earthseed Farm
An Afro-Indigenous, certified organic farm offering u-pick apples on Saturdays by appointment.
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch
13128 Occidental Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472
U-pick Gravenstein, Golden Delicious, and Rome Beauty apples (Sept–Dec). Famous for its fresh-pressed juice.
Earthseed Farm
An Afro-Indigenous, certified organic farm offering u-pick apples on Saturdays by appointment.
Petaluma
Chileno Valley Ranch
5105 Chileno Valley Rd, Petaluma, CA
Organic u-pick apples (Orin, Pinova, Candy Crisp) on Sundays (Sept–Oct). Reservations required. Offers a farm tour and charges a small carload fee.
Chileno Valley Ranch
5105 Chileno Valley Rd, Petaluma, CA
Organic u-pick apples (Orin, Pinova, Candy Crisp) on Sundays (Sept–Oct). Reservations required. Offers a farm tour and charges a small carload fee.
🍏 Bay Area & Central Coast
Watsonville
Gizdich Ranch
55 Peckham Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076
Popular u-pick farm with apples, berries, and a red-barn picnic area. Apple season begins mid-September.
Clearview Organic Orchards
Organic farm with various apple varieties, juice, and turnovers. Requires advance tickets.
Gizdich Ranch
55 Peckham Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076
Popular u-pick farm with apples, berries, and a red-barn picnic area. Apple season begins mid-September.
Clearview Organic Orchards
Organic farm with various apple varieties, juice, and turnovers. Requires advance tickets.
San Luis Obispo County
SLO Creek Farms
A 14-acre organic orchard with u-pick apples, fresh cider, and apple brandy.
Stone Pantry Orchard
Smaller u-pick farm offering different apple varieties and a rustic farm stand.
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Run by Cal Poly, this farm features 16 apple varieties and a long season from September to November.
SLO Creek Farms
A 14-acre organic orchard with u-pick apples, fresh cider, and apple brandy.
Stone Pantry Orchard
Smaller u-pick farm offering different apple varieties and a rustic farm stand.
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Run by Cal Poly, this farm features 16 apple varieties and a long season from September to November.
🍂 Sierra Foothills (Apple Hill – Placerville/Camino)
One of California's most beloved fall destinations, with over 50 family-run farms.
High Hill Ranch
Large, family-friendly farm with u-pick apples, a bakery, craft fairs, and scenic views.Pine-O-Mine Ranch
Offers u-pick apples and a peaceful picnic area.Boa Vista Orchards
While not a u-pick, it features a huge selection of fresh apples, baked goods, and a full produce market.Apple Ridge Farms, Harris Family Farm, Smokey Ridge Farm
Other great options in the area with pies, cider, and family fun.
🌄 Southern California
Oak Glen (San Bernardino Mountains)
Located in a scenic 5-mile loop, Oak Glen is SoCal’s apple country.
Los Rios Rancho
39611 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399
SoCal's largest and oldest apple orchard (est. 1906). U-pick apples (Aug–Nov), cider, pies, and educational tours.Willowbrook Apple Farm
Small, organic farm offering apple picking by reservation and DIY cider pressing.Riley’s Farm
Living history farm with u-pick apples and seasonal reenactments (e.g. Colonial or Civil War days).Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard
Heirloom, regenerative orchard offering curated u-pick experiences (October only; reservations required).
Julian (San Diego Mountains)
A historic mountain town with small-town charm and multiple orchards.
Julian Farm & Orchard
25-acre farm offering u-pick apples (mid-October), hayrides, petting zoo. Reservations required.Volcan Valley Apple Farm
Large farm with 8,000 trellised apple trees for easy picking. Over 100 years of apple-growing history.
🔍 Tips for a Great Apple Picking Trip
Call Ahead / Check Online: Farms often change hours based on weather, ripeness, or crowd size.
Bring Cash: Some small farms don’t accept cards.
Reservations: Required at many popular orchards (e.g., Willowbrook, Chileno Valley Ranch).
Avoid Peak Crowds: Try visiting on weekdays or early mornings.
BYO Bags: Some orchards ask visitors to bring their own containers for picking.
Call Ahead / Check Online: Farms often change hours based on weather, ripeness, or crowd size.
Bring Cash: Some small farms don’t accept cards.
Reservations: Required at many popular orchards (e.g., Willowbrook, Chileno Valley Ranch).
Avoid Peak Crowds: Try visiting on weekdays or early mornings.
BYO Bags: Some orchards ask visitors to bring their own containers for picking.
Dress for Fall Weather: Layers and sturdy shoes are recommended for farm visits.
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