Experience the charm of autumn in Oak Glen with a classic family-friendly activity: apple picking! Immerse yourself in the crisp air, vibrant foliage, and bountiful orchards as you pick your own delicious apples and create cherished memories together.
With a variety of apples to choose from, apple picking in Oak Glen offers the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones while enjoying the simple pleasures of nature.
Apple Picking Season in Oak Glen
Oak Glen, California, is well-known for its apple orchards and picturesque scenery. The apple season in Oak Glen typically begins in late August and continues through November, with different apple varieties ripening at different times.
The region is known for its U-pick apple farms, where visitors can pick apples directly from the trees and enjoy various apple-themed products and activities.
Some popular apple varieties grown in Oak Glen include Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, and Rome Beauty, among others. The specific timing for each variety’s harvest can vary depending on weather conditions, so it’s always a good idea to contact the orchard you plan to visit for up-to-date information on apple availability.
Oak Glen offers a variety of apple-related activities and attractions for visitors during the apple season, such as:
- Apple picking: Visitors can enjoy a hands-on apple picking experience at various orchards, such as Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho, Snow-Line Orchard, and Parrish Pioneer Ranch.
- Apple cider pressing: Many orchards and cider mills in Oak Glen offer demonstrations of traditional apple cider pressing methods and provide tastings of their freshly made cider.
- Apple-themed baked goods: Visitors can indulge in apple-themed treats like apple pies, apple turnovers, and apple cider donuts at bakeries and orchards throughout the region.
- Hayrides and petting zoos: Several orchards offer family-friendly activities like hayrides and petting zoos during the apple season.
When planning a visit to Oak Glen during apple season, it’s essential to keep in mind that weekends tend to be busier than weekdays. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday.
Glen Oak Apple Picking
1. Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho
- Website: www.losriosrancho.com
- Location: 39611 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 5 miles from Glen Oak
2. Snow-Line Orchard
- Website: www.snowlineorchard.com
- Location: 39400 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 7 miles from Glen Oak
3. Willowbrook Apple Farm
- Website: www.willowbrookapple.com
- Location: 12099 S Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 3 miles from Glen Oak
4. Law’s Cider Mill & Ranch
- Website: www.lawscidermill.com
- Location: 14343 Summit Dr, Yucaipa, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 10 miles from Glen Oak
5. Parrish Pioneer Ranch
- Website: www.parrishranch.com
- Location: 38561 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 6 miles from Glen Oak
6. Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard
- Website: www.stonesoupfarmca.com
- Location: 12131 S Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 3 miles from Glen Oak
7. Apple Annie’s
- Website: www.appleanniesranch.com
- Location: 12099 S New Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92408
- Distance: Approximately 12 miles from Glen Oak
8. Dragon Ranch Golf Course & Orchard
- Website: www.dragonranchgolf.com
- Location: 9558 Sheep Creek Rd, Phelan, CA 92371
- Distance: Approximately 20 miles from Glen Oak
9. Los Rios Rancho – Wilshire’s Apple Shed
- Website: www.losriosrancho.com
- Location: 39611 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 5 miles from Glen Oak
10. Law’s Oak Glen Coffee Shop
- Website: www.lawsoakglencoffee.com
- Location: 38861 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399
- Distance: Approximately 6 miles from Glen Oak
Please note that the availability of fruits and vegetables will depend on the season. It’s always a good idea to check the websites or call ahead to confirm picking options, hours, and availability before visiting.
Apple Picking Festivals and events in Oak Glen
Oak Glen, California, is famous for its apple orchards and hosts several apple picking festivals and events every year. Here are some of the popular apple picking festivals and events in Oak Glen:
-
Oak Glen Apple Butter Festival
- When: Usually held in early November
- What: A festival that celebrates the making of apple butter with live demonstrations, crafts, music, and food.
- Where: Oak Glen Village, Oak Glen, CA
-
Oak Glen Apple Harvest Festival
- When: Usually held on weekends from September through November
- What: A festival that celebrates the apple harvest with apple picking, cider pressing, live music, crafts, and food.
- Where: Oak Glen Village, Oak Glen, CA
-
Apple Butter and Jerky Festival
- When: Usually held in early November
- What: A festival that celebrates the making of apple butter and beef jerky with live demonstrations, food, crafts, and live music.
- Where: Snow-Line Orchard, Oak Glen, CA
-
Apple Picking at Los Rios Rancho
- When: Usually held on weekends from September through November
- What: A family-friendly event that allows visitors to pick their own apples, enjoy wagon rides, watch live demonstrations, and indulge in apple-related treats.
- Where: Los Rios Rancho, Oak Glen, CA
-
Mountain Communities Apple Festival
- When: Usually held in late September
- What: A festival that celebrates the apple harvest with apple picking, cider pressing, crafts, live music, and food.
- Where: Yucaipa Community Park, Yucaipa, CA
Please note that the dates and details of these events may vary from year to year, and it’s always a good idea to check the official websites or call ahead to confirm the dates and activities.
Tips for a Successful Apple Picking Experience
Apple picking is a fun and rewarding activity for the whole family. However, it can quickly turn into a frustrating experience if you are not prepared. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your apple picking adventure:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly
- Call ahead to confirm the orchard’s hours and availability
- Bring cash or check, as some orchards may not accept credit cards
- Bring your own bags or containers for the apples
- Be respectful of the orchard’s rules and regulations
- Don’t climb on the trees or damage the fruit
- Sample the apples before picking to make sure they are ripe and sweet
- Have fun and enjoy the experience!
By following these tips, you can ensure a successful apple picking experience that will create memories for years to come.
Benefits of Apple Picking
Apple picking is a fun activity that offers many benefits for individuals and families. Here are some of the benefits of apple picking:
- Fresh air and exercise: Apple picking is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air while getting some exercise. Walking through the orchard and carrying a bag of apples can help burn calories and increase heart rate.
- Family fun: Apple picking is a great activity for families to enjoy together. It can be a fun way to bond and create memories. Parents can teach their children about the different types of apples and how they grow.
- Healthy snack: Apples are a nutritious snack that are high in fiber and low in calories. Picking your own apples ensures that they are fresh and free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
- Supporting local farms: By picking apples at a local farm, you are supporting the local economy and helping to sustain local agriculture. It’s a great way to give back to the community.
- Learning experience: Apple picking can be a great learning experience for children and adults alike. It can teach about agriculture, the environment, and the importance of supporting local farms.
Apple Picking FAQs
What should I wear when apple picking?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Dress in layers, as the temperature can change throughout the day. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for sun protection.
Related posts:
Do I need to bring my own bags or containers for apple picking?
Some orchards provide bags or containers for apple picking, while others may require you to bring your own. It’s a good idea to check with the orchard beforehand or bring your own reusable bags just in case.
Related posts:
How much does apple picking cost?
The cost of apple picking varies by the orchard and may be priced per pound, per bag, or as a flat rate for a specific container size. Some orchards may also charge an admission fee. Check with the specific orchard for their pricing structure.
Related posts:
Are apple orchards pet-friendly?
Policies regarding pets vary by orchard. Some orchards may allow pets on a leash, while others may not permit pets at all. It’s best to check with the individual orchard for their pet policy before visiting.
