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Go Apple Picking at the Best Farms in SoCal

Updated for 2023

Apple picking season is here, and we think it’s a great way for the whole family to have fun. Check out these farms near Los Angeles that will let you come and pick your own apples.

Most of the farms have additional activities to try: How about making your own cider for one — or taking a hayride, or even throwing a tomahawk!

Even though some people think we don’t have seasons in Los Angeles, it’s just not true — and the apples prove it! We’ve got a list of farms for apple picking near Los Angeles you can choose from.

Apple season is usually from late September into December every year, but check with each farm to be sure of their schedule before you go.

And once you have a big basket of apples you’ve picked, check out these 30 Delicious Apple Recipes we’ve rounded up for you!

red apples on a tree
These apples were just waiting to be picked! (So we did.)

Find Farms for Apple Picking Near Me – Map

NOTE: Always contact the farm before heading out: Their hours and activities may change. Call or check their social media channels for the latest information.

box of apples on a farm
This big box of apples was perfect for kids to reach in and grab!

Apple Picking Farms in Oak Glen

Riley’s Log Cabin and Apple Farm
*** NOTE: This is not the same place as Riley’s Farm ***
12201 Oak Glen Rd., Yucaipa, CA 92399

Known as “The Original Riley’s in Oak Glen,” this farm is owned by Dennis and Sharon Riley and they’ve been growing apples here for over 30 years. This farm offers U-Pick, cider making, and tons of fun activities. They also have field trips and homeschooling resources, too.

Note: This is not the same place as another apple picking place called Riley’s Farm, but you can see how there might be confusion because of their similar names.

Parrish Pioneer Ranch
38561 Oak Glen Rd., Oak Glen, CA 92399

You’ll find many varieties of apples at Parrish Ranch including some that are unique to this area, such as the Vasquez which was “developed by long-time Parrish Ranch foreman, Juan Vasquez.” Apple season means the Parrish Pioneer Ranch is open Friday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

There are lots of items to sample including apple cider, apple butter, apple salsa, and more. Be sure to take your time and explore the area. Families will find a variety of wildlife including pygmy goats, livestock, chickens and turkeys, a miniature donkey, and more. 

Los Rios Rancho
39611 Oak Glen Rd., Oak Glen, CA 92399

Los Rios Rancho is regarded as “Southern California’s largest Apple Farm in operation since 1906.” Visiting families will find traditional farming techniques here as well as historic entertainment and lots of fun. During fall weekends, families will enjoy wagon rides and hayrides, a petting zoo, a corn maze, and more. They also offer fresh-pressed sweet cider year-round and have an on-site cafe and country store which are also open year-round.

red and green apples on a tree
It’s really fun to pick your own apples right off the tree!

Snow-Line Orchard
39400 Oak Glen Rd., Oak Glen, CA 92399

“Since 1898, Snow-Line Orchard has been a source of apples, cider, and beautiful views.” You’ll find a variety of items there including fresh apples, cider, specialty gifts, farm-made wine, and more. You’ll want to make sure to taste the mini cider donuts — and even bring some home!

They are open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. You’ll find picnic tables on-site, so be sure to pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery while you’re there.

Willowbrook Apple Farm
12099 S. Oak Glen Rd., Yucaipa, CA 92399

Come explore Willowbrook Apple Farm on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, from Labor Day weekend through the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Families can do it all here — pick fresh apples, meet farm animals, take tractor rides, and press apple cider. Be sure to check the website for updates — the farm sometimes has a later harvest. 

Stone Soup Farm
12131 S. Oak Glen Rd., Oak Glen, CA 92399

Known for their wonderful apple picking, they also have tons of fun activities, when allowed, like tomahawk practice, Instagram-able photo settings, archery, and a children’s play area.

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Hotels Near Oak Glen & Yucaipa

one red apple on a tree
This one is ready to be picked!

Apple Picking Farms in San Luis Obispo

The Apple Stand
See Canyon Fruit Ranch
2345 See Canyon Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

If you’re heading north along the central coast, stop at the See Canyon Fruit Ranch in San Luis Obispo. The Apple Stand is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from September through the end of November.

A variety of different apples are offered there, depending on when you visit, including Red Delicious, Gala, Pippin, and many more. Families can also enjoy freshly pressed apple cider, ranch-raised honey, farm-fresh eggs, apple butter, and lots more.

SLO Creek Farms
6455 Monte Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Families are invited to enjoy U-Pick Apple Season at SLO Creek Farms every day from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm from September through the end of November. These organic apples grow on the 44-acre site and promise to be the “best apples you’ll ever taste.” Families also speak highly of the generally not crowded, relatively quiet atmosphere found there.

Hotels Near San Luis Obispo

apples growing on an apple tree and ready for apple picking in Southern California

Apple Picking Farms in Julian

Volcan Valley Apple Farm
1284 Julian Orchards Dr., Julian, CA 92036

Volcan is a seasonal U-Pick orchard. They open in the fall as soon as some varieties of apples are ripe, and they close when the apples are all gone. Don’t miss it!

Julian Farm and Orchard
4444 State Hwy 78 Julian, CA 92036

Aside from picking your own apples, you can enjoy activities like tomahawk throwing, gem sluicing, gold panning, and pit digging. Field trip and homeschool resources are available as well.

Old Peacefield Orchard
3802 Wynola Rd., Julian, CA 92036

You can pick your own apples on the weekends from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Apple varieties include Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Jonathan, Jonagold, and Granny Smith. Please bring masks, social distancing is still recommended.

Apple Starr Orchards
1020 Julian Orchard Dr., Julian, CA 92036

To pick your own apples at Apple Starr Orchards you can use their picking poles if the branches are too high. They also have wagons available for small children, but they allow you to bring your own or your own wagon too. If you want to picnic, they have space available, but you’ll need to bring your own chairs or blankets, and dogs are not allowed.

Hotels Near Julian

Wendy Kennar is a mother, writer, and former teacher who has lived her entire life in the same Los Angeles zip code. You can read more from Wendy at her website WendyKennar.com where she writes about books, boys, and bodies (living with an invisible disability).

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