Perfect Picnic Spots in the Sacramento Area

Sacramento is the ideal place for picnic lovers. Temperate weather, scenic natural wonders and expansive public parks mean there are options galore. From the foothills to the flatlands, alfresco dining is the way to go. So, grab your basket and your blanket and check out some of the best spots to picnic in the greater Sacramento area

McKinley Park

Photo courtesy Jeff Hitchcock via Flickr

No matter your picnic preference, you’ll find it at this East Sacramento landmark. Spread out under the sun in the playing fields. Relax under the shaded canopy of sycamore trees. Surround yourself with fragrant blooms in the Rose Garden. There are even group picnic and barbecue areas, a duck pond and an adventure play area for the little ones.

Nimbus Flat Recreation Area

Photo courtesy Eugene Kim on Flickr

If you’re the type of picnicker who needs a little action before (or after) your meal, Nimbus Flat is for you. This stretch of Lake Natoma not only has picnic tables, grassy lawns and water access, it’s also next door to the Sac State Aquatic Center, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards and canoes.

Jack Russell Farm Brewery

Head up to El Dorado County near Apple Hill and spend the day picnicking and tasting craft beers, hard cider and mead. This family-friendly brewery has an expansive picnic area complete with tables, lawn games and views of the farm. Bring your own food or grab a bite from one of the food trucks.

Ancil Hoffman Park

Photo courtesy Mitch Lorens on Flickr

Have lunch under the towering oaks, walk down to the edge of the American River and explore miles of trails within this Carmichael preserve. You may even spot a deer or two. Nature lovers take note: the Effie Yeaw Nature Center is on site, home to rescued owls, hawks, turtles and snakes.

Rancho Roble Vineyards

Photo courtesy Rancho Roble Vineyards

There’s no need to drive to Napa for the quintessential vineyard picnic. Located in Lincoln, Rancho Roble is a family-friendly winery that is picture-perfect in every way: rows of grapevines, a scenic pond with splashing fountain, and plenty of manicured lawns to spread out and relax. There’s even a play structure for the kiddos! Bring your own food and pick up a bottle of sauvignon blanc or Barbera from the tasting room.

The Barn

This West Sacramento gathering spot slash brewery is ideal for anyone looking for a place to chill out with friends or family. Drake’s Brewing Company pours its craft brews, food trucks sell their grub, and there’s even a pizza restaurant on site. An expansive lawn means the kids can run wild, while picnic tables and fire pits mean there’s plenty of places for mom and dad too.

Auburn State Recreation Area

There are so many great picnic spots near Auburn, it’s hard to choose just one. A good place to start is near the confluence of the Middle and North forks of the American River. You can scramble down to the water under the Foresthill Bridge and grab a picnic table or find a spot on the rocks. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take one of the many trails that start here and find your own private picnic spot.

Davis Arboretum

This public arboretum in Davis welcomes visitors year-round to explore the grounds and learn about the unique ecosystems that make up our world, from Australia to South Africa. After a morning of exploration, grab a table at the Arboretum Terrace Garden or the Redwood Grove, or bring a blanket and relax under the oaks at the Peter J. Shields Grove.