The Best Places for Fall Family Photos in the Sacramento Region

Fall is no doubt one of the most popular times of year for family photos. The colorful crimson and yellow leaves make for a great backdrop and the golden light is just right. Many families choose to take family photos in the fall to use for their holiday cards. Not only is the weather ideal for outdoor snapshots, many of us are dressed in our best holiday attire around Thanksgiving!

Luckily, the greater Sacramento area has plenty of notable spots for taking fall family photos. Whether you’re looking for stunning fall color, rustic charm, or lovely gardens, there are picture-perfect spots in every corner of every county. From parks to bridges to rustic barns, following are some of the best spots in the greater Sacramento area for fall family photos.

Folsom Lake | Folsom, Granite Bay & El Dorado Hills

Straddling Folsom, Granite Bay and El Dorado Hills, Folsom Lake has plenty of spots to take fall family photos. The shoreline is framed by golden grasses and trees in shades of yellow, orange, and red, which strike a contrast against the blue water. There are also cliffside perches that offer sweeping views. One of the most popular photo spots on Folsom Lake is the Willow Creek Recreation Area in Folsom, especially at sunset.

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Cronan Ranch | Pilot Hill

Cronin Ranch is a nature preserve near Pilot Hill in El Dorado county that is crisscrossed by trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It has rolling grasslands, oak trees, and access to the American River on its southern edge, all of which make for great backdrops for family photos. If you’re looking for something a bit more rustic, there’s even a few old barns that were part of a film set.

Davis Arboretum

If you’re looking for a natural setting for your family photos, nothing beats the Davis Arboretum. Located along the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve in Davis, the public garden has acres upon acres of scenic landscapes, including an oak grove, a redwood grove, a pond, and golden canopies of trees. Plus, there’s a walking path that ties them all together.

Griffith Quarry Park | Penryn

Griffith Quarry Park is a scenic spot for family pictures in Placer County. Located in Penryn, there are miles of trails and picnic areas surrounding the historic granite quarry. The woodlands against the golden fields make for stunning family photos, as do the several historic stone buildings on the property.

Ancil Hoffman Park | Carmichael

Located along the American River Parkway near Carmichael, Ancil Hoffman Park offers beautiful woodlands and open meadows ideal for fall photography. The towering oak trees and golden grasses make for a rustic, earthy backdrop. Early in the morning or late afternoon, the light filters through the trees, creating a warm, natural glow that’s perfect for family portraits. The park’s proximity to the river also allows for shots with reflective water scenes and textured riverbanks.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Park | Coloma

Although Marshall Gold Discovery State Park is best known as the spot where gold was discovered 175 years ago, it’s also a scenic area with hiking trails and picnic tables. Oak woodlands, peaceful meadows, and the mighty American River all make for great photo ops. There are also Gold Rush-era buildings if you’re looking for something more rustic.

Park Winters | Winters

Photo Courtesy of Park Winters

Park Winters is an event venue just outside the town of Winters in Yolo County. Landscaped gardens, bucolic farmland, and charming historic barns and buildings make for the perfect backdrop for family photos this fall. They also have beautiful rows of farm flowers. Photo sessions must be reserved in advance and there is a fee.

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Miners Ravine Trail | Roseville

Hidden behind rows of shopping centers, Miners Ravine Trail is considered one of the best walking trails in the Sacramento area. It also provides impressive scenery to those looking to take some family photos. Rolling grassland, oak trees, and a babbling stream are a few of the things you’ll find here.

Capitol Park | Downtown Sacramento

Located in downtown Sacramento, this leafy park surrounds the State Capitol and showcases native plants from across the state. One of the most popular spots for family photography is the cactus garden, which provides a unique background for pictures. There’s also a rose garden, giant redwoods and sequoias, and hundreds of plants and shrubs.

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Apple Hill | Camino & Placerville

Best known for its many apple orchards, the mountain area near Placerville and Camino just screams “fall.” Colorful orchards, picturesque barns, and rolling hillsides make for the perfect backdrop for family photos. Vineyards and pumpkin patches also provide endless opportunities for rustic family pics.

Auburn State Recreation Area | Auburn

Photo Courtesy of Auburn State Recreation Area

One of the most photographed areas in the entire Sacramento region, the Auburn State Recreation Area has it all: rushing rivers, oak and pine woodlands, sweeping canyon views, and the spectacular Foresthill Bridge. You can take your pick of the many locations here and explore the trails and picnic areas.

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Cosumnes River Preserve | Galt

Photo Courtesy of Consumnes River Preserve

In Galt, the Cosumnes River Preserve is another great bet for family photos. The natural landscape comprises more than 50,000 acres of wildlife habitat, including wetlands and a native plant garden. It’s also a popular spot for bird watching, so keep your eyes peeled! Note: commercial photography requires a permit, so it’s best for those taking their own pictures.