LAGuide
6 Orchards Near LA That Are Great For Apple Picking (And More)
photo credit: Sue Thompson
Fall is LA’s forgotten season. It’s basically just a hotter version of summer, but instead of swimsuits, people are wearing Halloween costumes. That said, seasonal nostalgia will still take over at some point, and when it does, you know it’s time to go apple picking. Though Southern California will always be known for its fields of citrus fruit, there are a few small pockets of excellent apple orchards in the region. Located primarily in the cooler climates of Oak Glen and Julian, CA, here are six great orchards all within a two-ish hour drive from LA.
The Orchards
With trees that were first planted in 1867, Parrish Pioneer Ranch is one of the oldest orchards in Southern California. That history is apparent from the second you wander onto the property. There’s the Old Parrish Barn, selling everything from apple butter to gourmet chocolates, a toy shop called Granny’s Attic, and Parrish House Antiques, which showcases findings from the original farmhouse. If history isn’t your thing, don’t worry—they have food by Metal Kitchen, as well as the orchard itself, which grows several varieties unique to Southern California.
Our favorite thing about Snow-Line isn’t just that it’s a great orchard, it’s also a fully functioning winery. Whether you’re planning a day date or you simply can’t be around your family for more than two hours without drinking, this historic Oak Glen orchard is a great option. They don’t offer any U-pick apples, but they do have a vast array for purchase, along with jams, sauces, pie fillings, and their famous mini cider donuts.
Though Willowbrook Apple Farm has technically only been open since 2004, the orchard on the property was planted over a century ago - so there’s still plenty of history here. This popular orchard is typically open on weekends and offers U-pick apples, wine tastings, a cider press, and a small petting zoo featuring Delilah the mini pig, who, according to their website, enjoys “belly rubs and yummy snacks.” Same, Delilah.
Stone Soup Farm might only be six acres, but they pack quite a bit into their Oak Glen space. There’s a 130-year-old heirloom apple orchard filled with varieties ranging from Fuji to McIntosh, archery fields, seasonal gardens, an interactive kid’s area, and perhaps most importantly, excellent spots for photos. Open weekends only, 10am-4pm.
Located outside Julian, CA in Santa Ysabel, Julian Farm and Orchard is the kind of place that has something for everybody. Pumpkin picking, going on hayrides, axe throwing, farm animals, cider pressing, or shopping for goat’s milk soap at their seasonal store, “The Farmer’s Wife.” If you’re bored at Julian Farm And Orchard, it’s your own fault. Current operating hours are 10am-4pm Friday through Sunday.
No, Underwood Family Farm technically isn’t an apple orchard, but it is a fantastic year-round farm and one of the best overall fall activities you can do in LA. Located just a 45-minute drive away in Moorpark, Underwood’s farm includes U-pick vegetables (check their website for what’s in season), a pumpkin patch, wagon rides, and a daily farmers’ market as well. Tickets are required during their fall harvest festival.
