The Best Pumpkin Patches in California | U-Pick Farms

Pumpkin patches in California offer some of the most enjoyable fall experiences in the state. As the weather cools and the leaves start to change, farms open their fields for families and visitors to pick pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. California has a long fall season, and its mix of mountain towns, coastal valleys, and wide open farm regions creates the perfect environment for both traditional and modern pumpkin patch activities.

Across the state, you will find many types of pumpkin farms. Some are large, full-day destinations with corn mazes, wagon rides, sunflower fields, and food areas. Others are quiet family farms where visitors can walk through simple rows of pumpkins and enjoy a calm, relaxed outing. Many locations offer photo spots, small markets, animals, and seasonal treats that make the experience feel festive and memorable.

Whether you are decorating your home, taking kids on a weekend trip, or looking for the perfect pumpkin for baking, California has plenty of beautiful places to explore. This guide brings together the top pumpkin patches across the state so you can easily find the right farm for your fall plans.

Best Time to Pick Pumpkins in California

Pumpkin season in California usually begins in late September and continues through October, with some farms staying open until early November. The best time to visit depends on the type of experience you want, the pumpkin variety you prefer, and how busy you want the farm to be.

General Pumpkin Season

• Late September: Early-season pumpkins, fewer crowds
• Early October: Peak season, best variety
• Mid-October: Strong supply but more visitors
• Late October: Some farms may sell out of popular sizes

Best Months to Visit

• Early to mid-October gives you the best mix of quality and variety.
• Late September is the best time for quiet visits and strong availability.

Best Days and Times

• Mornings: Cooler weather and better lighting for photos
• Weekdays: Fewer visitors and faster entry
• First two weeks of October: Good balance of fresh pumpkins and comfortable weather

When Not To Go

• Hot afternoons in early fall
• Peak weekends if you want a quiet visit
• The very last weekend of October, since the fields may be picked over

Before You Visit

Check the farm’s:

• Pumpkin availability
• Entry fees
• Parking rules
• Seasonal activities
• Weather updates
• Opening hours

California’s long fall season gives you plenty of time to explore pumpkin farms, and going at the right time makes the experience much more enjoyable.

Best Pumpkin Patches in California

1. Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm, Wheatland

Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm is one of the most popular pumpkin destinations in California and is known for offering a full fall experience. The farm features large pumpkin fields, scenic wagon rides, sunflower areas, play zones for children, and a wide range of seasonal treats. Visitors can pick pumpkins directly from the vine while enjoying open farm views and a festive atmosphere. Bishop’s is especially loved for its family-friendly environment, clean layout, and the variety of pumpkins available, from small sugar pumpkins to large carving varieties.

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2. Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch, Irvine

Tanaka Farms is one of the most well-known pumpkin patches in Southern California, attracting families from all over Orange County and beyond. The farm offers a wide range of pumpkins, fun activities for kids, wagon rides, and large open fields that create a festive fall atmosphere. Visitors enjoy picking pumpkins directly from the patch while exploring sunflower rows, photo spots, and seasonal displays. The farm is clean, well-organized, and very family-friendly, making it one of the top destinations for fall outings.

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3. Cal Poly Pumpkin Fest, Pomona

Cal Poly Pumpkin Fest is a popular fall event hosted by Cal Poly Pomona and is known for its large pumpkin patch, fun attractions, and lively festival atmosphere. The event features thousands of pumpkins spread across open fields, along with activities such as corn mazes, hay rides, farm demonstrations, and kid-friendly play zones. Because it is run by the university’s agricultural program, the fields are well-maintained, and the event is educational as well as entertaining. Visitors appreciate the mix of hands-on activities, photo spots, and a wide variety of pumpkins, making it a favorite destination for families and groups.

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4. Lemos Farm, Half Moon Bay

Lemos Farm is one of the most popular pumpkin patches on the Northern California coast, located in the scenic town of Half Moon Bay. The farm is designed to be very family-friendly and offers a fun mix of activities for children along with a colorful pumpkin patch. Visitors enjoy walking through rows of bright pumpkins, taking photos with seasonal displays, and exploring attractions such as pony rides, train rides, and small petting zones. The cool coastal weather and festive decorations make this farm a favorite destination during the fall season.

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5. Cool Patch Pumpkins, Dixon

Cool Patch Pumpkins is widely known for having one of the largest corn mazes in the world, making it a popular fall destination for families and groups. The pumpkin patch itself is large and filled with a wide variety of pumpkins, including giant pumpkins, decorative varieties, and classic carving options. Visitors enjoy exploring the open fields, taking photos with creative displays, and spending time in the family-friendly activity areas. The farm’s spacious layout and festive atmosphere make it a great place for both pumpkin picking and seasonal fun.

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6. Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch, Culver City

Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch is one of the most iconic pumpkin patches in Los Angeles, known for its bright displays, creative setups, and fun activities for children. The patch is designed with a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that feels playful and welcoming, making it a favorite spot for photos and seasonal outings. While it is not a traditional farm setting, visitors enjoy a wide selection of pumpkins, kid-friendly attractions, and comfortable seating areas. This patch is especially popular among families looking for a lively and colorful fall experience without traveling far from the city.

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7. Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch, Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch is a well-known fall destination in Northern California. The farm features a large pumpkin field with a wide variety to choose from, along with a giant corn maze, hay rides, and outdoor play areas. Families enjoy the open, spacious layout and the mix of fun attractions that make the visit enjoyable for both children and adults. The farm also offers scenic photo spots, seasonal food stands, and views of surrounding vineyards and countryside. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a classic pumpkin patch experience in the North Bay.

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8. Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, Petaluma

Petaluma Pumpkin Patch is a well-loved fall destination in Sonoma County, offering a wide selection of pumpkins along with a large corn maze and beautiful open farm views. The patch is designed for families and visitors who want a mix of traditional pumpkin picking and fun seasonal activities. Guests enjoy wandering through the open fields, taking photos with colorful displays, and exploring the maze that changes design each year. The farm is easy to navigate, welcoming, and perfect for a relaxed fall outing in the countryside.

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9. Avila Valley Barn, San Luis Obispo

Avila Valley Barn is one of the most popular fall attractions on the Central Coast. Known for its charming farm setting, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings, the barn offers a classic pumpkin patch experience along with many family-friendly activities. Visitors can pick pumpkins from open fields, visit farm animals, enjoy tractor rides, and try seasonal treats from the bakery and produce market. The farm is also known for its warm hospitality and scenic views of rolling hills, which make it a favorite stop for both locals and travelers.

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10. Pumpkin King Pumpkin Patch, Fresno

Pumpkin King Pumpkin Patch is a popular fall destination in the Central Valley, offering a family-friendly pumpkin picking experience with a festive and welcoming atmosphere. The farm features a wide variety of pumpkins, from small sugar pumpkins to large carving sizes, along with bright displays and open areas for children to explore. Visitors appreciate the clean layout, simple entry process, and affordable pricing compared to larger commercial fall festivals. Pumpkin King is known for its relaxed and easygoing environment, making it a great option for families looking for a fun and comfortable pumpkin patch in the Fresno area.

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Gears and Accessories

A simple set of items can make your trip to a pumpkin patch easier and more comfortable. Pumpkin fields can be dusty, sunny, or uneven, so being prepared helps you enjoy a smooth and relaxed outing.

What to Bring

• Comfortable closed-toe shoes (Best Farm Shoes)
• A hat or cap for sun protection (Best Farm Hats)
• Sunscreen (Best Sunscreens)
• A reusable water bottle (Best Reusable Bottles)
• A small backpack or tote for personal items (Best Totes)
• Hand wipes or napkins

For Better Pumpkin Picking

• A pair of light gloves to handle prickly stems (Best garden gloves )
• A small wagon if you plan to pick multiple pumpkins (Best Wagon for pumpkin patch)
• A sturdy reusable bag for carrying smaller pumpkins (Best Tote Bags )
• A soft cloth to wipe dust off pumpkins

Optional Items

• A cooler bag if you plan to buy pies or treats
• A picnic blanket for shaded areas
• A portable fan for warmer days
• A power bank for photos and navigation
• A backup bag in case you find more pumpkins than expected

These simple accessories help you enjoy your time at the pumpkin patch while keeping your pumpkins clean and easy to carry.

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Tips for Picking Pumpkins in California

Pumpkin picking is easy and enjoyable when you know what to look for. These simple tips help you choose pumpkins that last longer, look better, and stay firm for carving or cooking.

How to Pick the Best Pumpkins

• Choose pumpkins with firm, hard shells
• Look for deep color and even skin
• Avoid soft spots, cracks, or mold
• Pick pumpkins with sturdy stems
• Lift pumpkins from the base rather than pulling the stem
• Tap the pumpkin lightly to check for a solid sound

Pumpkins for Carving vs Cooking

• Carving: Large, hollow pumpkins with smooth sides
• Cooking: Small sugar pumpkins with thick flesh

How to Store Your Pumpkins

• Keep pumpkins in a cool, dry place
• Avoid placing them in direct sunlight
• Wipe off dirt and moisture before storing
• Keep them elevated on cardboard to improve airflow

Avoiding Crowds

• Visit in the morning for cooler weather
• Choose weekdays whenever possible
• Go in late September or early October for the calmest visits

Comfort and Safety Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes for uneven paths
• Bring plenty of water
• Follow farm guidelines for safe picking
• Keep children close in busy areas
• Check weather conditions before driving to rural farms

Extra Tips for a Better Experience

• Bring a small wagon if the patch allows it
• Take photos early in the day for the best light
• Check for farm activities such as hay rides or corn mazes
• Bring a soft cloth to clean pumpkins before placing them in your car

These tips help you enjoy a smooth and memorable pumpkin-picking trip and bring home pumpkins that stay fresh and firm for weeks.

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Wrapping Up: The Best Pumpkin Picking in California

Pumpkin picking in California is a fun and memorable way to enjoy the fall season. From the large, activity-filled farms in Southern California to the scenic patches along the coast and the classic fall landscapes of the Central Valley and Northern California, the state offers something for every type of visitor. Whether you enjoy corn mazes, wagon rides, farm animals, or simply walking through quiet rows of pumpkins, there is a farm that fits your idea of a perfect autumn day.

This guide brings together the pumpkin patches that offer the best mix of quality, family-friendly activities, and easy access. Use it to plan a weekend trip, find new places to explore, or enjoy a simple outing with fresh air and seasonal charm. California’s long fall season makes it easy to pick the perfect pumpkin and create a tradition that you can enjoy year after year.

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