U-Pick Farms & Farm Stands in the Sacramento Area to Visit this Season

Sacramento is surrounded by farms, orchards, and ranches, so it makes sense that it’s the Farm-to-Fork Capital of the Nation. Locals take pride in having easy access to the freshest produce around, as evidenced by the many farmers’ markets in the region.

But sometimes, it’s best to go straight to the source. Many local farms operate farm stands where you can get just-picked fruits and veggies directly from those who grow them. Even better, some have U-pick experiences where you can enjoy a day at the farm and go home with the fruits (and veggies!) of your own labor.

 If you’re looking to get this spring or summer outdoors and learn more about where your food comes from, consider a visit to one of these family-friendly U-pick farms and farm stands in the greater Sacramento region. 

Photo Courtesy of 24 Carrot Farm

 24 Carrot Farm | Placerville

Located in the Apple Hill area northeast of downtown Placerville, this local farm has a year-round farm stand where they offer organic, seasonal produce: asparagus in the spring, tomatoes in the summer, apples in the fall, and mandarins in the winter. They also have U-pick blackberries, raspberries, tomatoes, and flowers beginning in July. Or, if you prefer, you can pick up plant starts and grow your own garden at home.

Granny May’s Strawberry Farm | Granite Bay

Nothing says summer like a plump, juicy strawberry, and at this local farm in Granite Bay, you’ll find some of the best around. You can pick your own beginning in May. Reservations are required — you buy a ticket in advance and get a bucket upon arrival. They also have blackberries, peaches, cherries, and other fruits and veggies.

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Impossible Acres | Davis

Located just outside of Davis, this local farm has a Summer Pickin’ Patch that typically opens in late May. Here, you’ll find cherries, peaches, berries and more. They also have an animal barn.

Photo Courtesy of Davis Ranch

Davis Ranch | Sloughhouse

Perhaps best known for their sweet corn come summer, Davis Ranch in Sloughhouse also grows a variety of other vegetables and fruit. They have asparagus, green beans, squash and melons, which is available for U-pick or at their outdoor farm stand. Best of all, U-pick produce is as little as 45 cents a pound!

Harris Family Farm | Pollock Pines

This family-run farm in Pollock Pines has been in operation for seven generations! You can pick your own blueberries, marionberries, blackberries, and flowers in summer. They also have a lovely picnic area and a shop where you can find fresh-baked goodies, jams, and preserves.

Amber Oaks Berry Farm | Auburn

Whether you’re looking for a U-pick experience or need to stock up on pre-harvested produce, this small family farm in Auburn has it all. U-pick berry season begins in June, and U-pick tomatoes are available in late summer and early fall. They also have a farmstand with peaches, figs, pomegranates, kiwi and more.

Photo Courtesy of Pacific Star Gardens

Pacific Star Gardens | Woodland

Sweet, juicy, sun-ripened strawberries are the draw at this family-run organic farm in Woodland. The season has already started and you can bring your own container or borrow a bucket. They also have U-pick blackberries and apricots. You can also visit with their flock of chickens and take home some just-laid eggs.

Sun Strawberry | Elk Grove

What’s better than a sunny spring day spent in a strawberry garden? At this family-friendly farm in Elk Grove, you can do just that. They offer U-pick strawberries throughout the growing season, as well as U-pick blackberries. They also offer berries at their roadside farmstand, including fava beans, sugar snap peas, cherries, and watermelon.

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Photo Courtesy of Rainbow Orchards

Rainbow Orchards | Camino

If it’s blueberries you’re after, you’ll find them at Rainbow Orchards in Camino. They offer U-pick blueberries beginning June 20, or you can buy them by the pound. Reservations are required. They also offer nectarines and peaches beginning in late summer.

Foothill Roots Farm | Meadow Vista

This certified organic farm in Meadow Vista offers a range of seasonal fruits and veggies at their family-run farmstand, from salad greens to spring onions, blackberries to bok choy. They also offer U-pick flowers in the summer. Or, you can join their CSA for a weekly farm box.

Photo Courtesy of The Cloverleaf Farm

The Cloverleaf Farm | Davis

Craving a juicy summer peach? This organic farm in Davis has several varieties. Their U-pick season is open on select weekends beginning in June. They also offer farm boxes with apricots, nectarines, figs, and plums. Check their social media for opening dates.

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Daisy Creek Farms | Galt

Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and boysenberries are a few of the fruits you’ll find at this organic U-pick farm in Galt. They also have plums and peaches and summer veggies like tomatoes, chiles, and squash. You can take a guided tour to learn more about organic gardening, or, if you’re short on time you can pre-order many fruits for pickup.

 Tips for Visiting a U-Pick Farm

• Confirm opening times. Farms are at the mercy of Mother Nature. Produce might not be ready for harvesting depending on the weather, so double check before you go.
• Go in the morning. Not only is it cooler, but it’ll also be less crowded and you’ll have the first pick. 
• Dress appropriately. Wear closed-toed shoes or boots, preferably waterproof. Fields are often muddy, dusty, and uneven.
• Bring containers. While most farms offer buckets or baskets, it’s a good idea to bring your own just in case. Also bring reusable bags to take home your haul.
• Stay on designated paths. Cutting through rows or traipsing across plants can cause damage, which affects future yields.
• Watch your children. There can be many hazards on a working farm, including raised rows, irrigation pipes, and farm equipment. Make sure your children stay by your side to avoid injury.