August 05, 2024(Originally published June 02, 2023)
There’s nothing quite like the joy of hand-selecting the freshest produce straight from the fields, and Butte County’s U‑pick farms offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, support local agriculture, and indulge in the flavors of the season.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a fun outdoor activity for the family, Butte County’s U‑pick farms have something for everyone!
Chico State University Farm
The Chico State University Farm is a unique U‑pick experience that blends learning and agriculture. Normally a living classroom for agricultural students, for a few short days in August, the University Farm becomes a u‑pick paradise for peaches!
U‑PICK: Peaches
OPEN: Early August, as the peaches ripen. Watch Chico State’s Facebook for announcements, or call the University Farm’s Peach Hotline at (530) 898‑4989 for the most current information about the season’s peach picking dates.
Fig & Scout Farms
If you’re a fan of stunning floral displays, Fig & Scout Farms is a must-visit U‑pick farm in Chico. Wander through rows of vibrant flowers, handpick your favorites, and create your own dazzling bouquet on the half-acre, mother-daughter owned farm.
U‑PICK: Flowers
OPEN: Seasonally in the summer by appointment only. Check their Instagram more information.
Johnson U‑Pick Farm
For a diverse selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, Johnson U‑Pick Farm in Gridley is a hidden gem. Explore the farm’s sprawling fields, where you’ll find an abundant array of produce, including luscious berries, juicy peaches, perfectly ripe tomatoes, and much more. Find seasonal availability and prices on their website.
OPEN: Late May through October, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8am-3pm
L&T Farms
At the first-generation L&T Farms in Chico, return throughout the season to pick several delicious varieties cherries, peaches, and nectarines. Visit once for your favorite, or return throughout the summer to taste the difference between the varieties as they ripen to perfection.
U‑PICK: Cherries, peaches, and nectarines
OPEN: Mid-May or early June through end of July or early August (depending on weather) on weekends. Before visiting, make sure to check for current open dates and hours as well as other updates on their Facebook or Instagram pages, or call (530) 521‑5837.
Noble Orchards
This fall, bring your friends and family, gather your baskets, and get ready to handpick the freshest, most delicious apples straight from the tree at Noble Orchards, a Paradise favorite since 1921. Bite into a variety of apples as they ripen throughout the fall.
U‑PICK: Apples
OPEN: Early August through October. For updates on the current season, open days and hours, and what’s available, check out their Facebook page.
Sierra Cascade Blueberry Farm
As summer rolls in, the Sierra Cascade Blueberry Farm in Forest Ranch beckons with its juicy, premium organic blueberries ready for picking. Fill your baskets with a true taste of summer as you stroll the delicious blueberry patches at this family-owned and operated farm.
U‑PICK: Organic blueberries
OPEN: Late May or early June, but can be later depending on the weather. For announcements on the current season and open days and hours, check out their Facebook or Instagram pages or call (530) 894‑8728.
Stagecoach Lane Ranch
Tucked away in the serene foothills of Oroville, Stagecoach Lane Ranch offers a truly peaceful U‑pick experience. Enjoy a wagon ride to the top of the orchard and pick your fill of sweet, juicy Bing cherries as you make your way to the pavilion for a delicious picnic.
U‑PICK: Cherries
OPEN: Late May or early June, depending on the weather. Open 9am to 4pm daily until picked out (generally 2 weeks from opening). For announcements on current season, check out their Facebook page or call (530) 532‑0191