Need ideas for family outings for spring and summer? If so, consider adding U-pick farms near LA to your list of activities.
While there are many U-pick sites to choose from, some are just more fun than others. The biggest difference? The crops you get to pick. Why choose radishes and lettuce when you can pick sweet, ripe, sun-warmed strawberries, blueberries and blackberries instead?
Looking for a list of U-pick farms? Here it is:
Also looking for ideas on how to make your visit to a U-pick farm a success? Follow these 5 easy tips:
1. Know Your Berry Season
If you’re planning to pick some berries this spring and summer, make sure you know when berry season is in southern California.
While it varies from year to year, this is the general timeframe:
While this calendar provides you with a general timeframe, weather and bad crop conditions can cause a season to start late, end early, or not happen at all. Sign up for U-pick farm mailing lists and follow social media posts to know when the season opens.
If you have a family member who really loves just one type of berry, this next tips if for you.
2. Visit U-pick farms at the Beginning of the Season
Like most special events near LA, plan to attend U-pick activities at the beginning of the season, as they tend to fill up fast. Once the crowds come through, the picking options become more limited and the sites themselves start looking worse for wear.
Some farms, such as Tanaka Farms, allow you to book strawberry U-Pick tours in advance, so take advantage of these services when you can.
And now for the cost:
3. Expect to Pay Extra for Your U-Pick Experience
Some people are surprised by the price of picking fruit at U-pick farms. It can add up to twice or even three times what you would pay for the fruit at the store. It’s helpful to keep in mind that you are paying for the fruit, the experience, and the farm operations.
Want to keep costs down? Many farms offer limited and often expensive dining options. Consider bringing a picnic lunch with you instead.
While you’re packing your lunch, consider bringing a few extra items to make your visit more enjoyable:
4. Come Prepared with the right supplies
U-Pick farms near LA are busy and might not provide much guidance or support when you arrive. Bring cash, your own containers for picking fruit, and a cooler to avoid getting home with spoiled and/or crushed fruit. Visiting later in the season? Plan for hot weather (hat, sunscreen, water) as there is no shade out in the field.
Already packed and ready to go? farm, why not make a longer trip out of it. Read on for some creative ideas:
5. Make U-Pick Farms near LA only part of your trip
The drive is long and the stay is short. If you are visiting a U-Pick farm already, why not combine it with a few more related activities? Here are some fun suggestions:
California Strawberry Festival
If you’re planning to visit Underwood Family Farms for some berry picking in May, you might consider visiting during the California Strawberry festival. This year, it will take place at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on May 20-21, 2023, and will include family-friendly activities, food, and live music.
Knott’s Boysenberry Festival
If you’re planning a U-pick visit to north Orange County, be sure to check out Knott’s boysenberry festival. This annual event, which celebrates this famous California blackberry, will take place daily between March 10-April 16, 2023 at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park. This food and wine festival comes complete with live music, shows, and activities for all ages.
Farm Stay & Berry Picking
If your family loves spending time on farms, why not combine your next U-pick activity with a Farm Stay? Morning Song farms in Fallbrook offers the opportunity to stay on a working farm, visit with animals, collect eggs, and spend time out in nature. The best part? You’re only a short drive from two local U-pick locations – Kenny’s Strawberry Farm in Fallbrook and Temecula Berry Co.
Ranch Stay & Blueberry Picking
And last but not least – the luxury option. If you’re planning a special event, a family gathering, or just want to support a good cause, consider visiting Restoration Oaks Ranch in Gaviota, just north of Santa Barbara. This Farm stay provides luxury accommodation, nature hikes, and blueberry picking right on site. And the feel-good part? Their net proceeds go to the Restoration Oaks Agroecology Education Preserve located on site.
So what are you waiting for? Go pick some berries and enjoy a fun day exploring U-pick farms near LA.
Now that you know when and where to find U-pick farms near LA that specialize in berries, how about growing some on your own? Read Child-Friendly Edible Garden in Los Angeles? The Quick Start Guide for ideas on how to grow strawberries and other fun crops, right in your backyard.