There is nothing quite like the taste of freshly-picked berries. Even reluctant eaters will be willing to try something new when they’ve picked it themselves. Luckily, several farms near Los Angeles feature u-pick berry fields, so you can enjoy this must-try experience with your family. We’ve compiled a list of the best berry picking in Southern California to choose from.
Southern California berry season begins in spring and lasts throughout the summer, depending on supply and weather conditions, so the earlier in the season you go, the better. Check in with each farm before you visit to ensure their picking fields are open.
Related:
Best Kid Friendly Farms Near Los Angeles
Best Los Angeles Apple Picking Locations For Fall
A Guide to the Best Berry Picking Spots Near Los Angeles
Underwood Family Farms
Beginning in mid-April, the sprawling strawberry fields at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark are open for berry picking. However, the fun doesn’t end there. As the summer heat sets in, you’ll find the blackberries ready for picking by mid-June and raspberries in July, running to November, so you can enjoy freshly picked berries from the farm all summer long. They also have a very limited season of Olallieberries May. It can get very hot out in the fields, so plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon and bring hats and sunblock. The Somis location also features Pick-Your-Own Berries beginning late April and running through July.
Tanaka Farms Irvine
Known for its deliciously sweet strawberries, Tanaka Farms is the perfect place to visit for berry picking. Go for a wagon ride around the farm on a Strawberry Picking Tour. You’ll learn all about the farming methods and history of the farm and, of course, get an opportunity to pick strawberries to take home and pick one seasonal vegetable. Advance reservations are required for the tour.
South Coast Farms
No reservations are required at the U-Pick Strawberry fields at South Coast Farms. Harvesting is open Thursday through Sunday 10 – 4 throughout the berry season, which typically begins in March. Check out the farm on Instagram for more details on supply and picking.
Carlsbad Strawberry Company
Carlsbad Strawberry Company has grown strawberries for four generations and still offers one of the best farms to visit during berry picking season. Stroll through the strawberry fields and pick your own to take home. While you’re there, you can check out the Sunflower Maze, get a taste of fresh-made honey, and enjoy games and activities for kids.
Los Rios Rancho
If you’ve ever been apple picking, you may have stopped at this gorgeous farm nestled in Oak Glen, but you may not know it’s also a berry picking farm throughout the summer. This organically grown you-pick spot is a must-visit with over three acres of foothill strawberry patches. Strawberry fields are open for picking from June through September while produce lasts. The farm also grows organic raspberries, available for picking in late July – September.
Kenny’s Strawberry Farm Fallbrook
This family-owned U-Pick berry farm in Fallbrook is open for picking starting in mid-March. The strawberry picking season typically lasts through July. The farm is open Friday through Sunday, but advanced reservations are required. Opening dates vary each year, so check the website for updated information.
Are there any berry picking farms near you that we missed? Share your favorite family farms on our Local Anchor Facebook group, and we’ll add them to the list. And happy picking!
