The Best Pumpkin Patches in Southern California

We made it a family mission to visit as many pumpkin patches as we could last fall and here are our top three picks when it comes to which are worth a visit.

Underwood Family Farms, Moorpark, CA: Where Memories Grow

Our first stop on this pumpkin-picking journey takes us to the picturesque Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark, CA. This special place holds a dear spot in our hearts, as it was the first pumpkin patch we visited with our daughter when I was pregnant, and it's been our go-to spot ever since. We also make it to their strawberry picking each year. Read about it HERE. 

Why We Love It

Underwood Family Farms is a sprawling working farm that offers a cornucopia of activities. From live entertainment on the weekends to the quintessential pumpkin picking experience, they've got it all. Your little ones will have a blast with tractor rides, petting zoos, and even a combine slide.

Kid's Favorite

Our daughter absolutely adores the petting zoo, where she can brush goats, feed baby ducks, and get up close and personal with all the friendly farm animals.

Pro Tips:

• Parking is free, but there's a gate fee that includes red pull wagons and tractor rides. Additional activities require tickets.
• Don't forget to pack refillable water bottles and snacks, and dress appropriately for the weather. Hats and sunblock are a must!

Tanaka Farms, Irvine, CA: Pumpkin Paradise with a Crowd

Next up, we head to Tanaka Farms in Irvine, CA, another working farm that promises an abundance of pumpkin-picking fun. While Tanaka Farms offers a wide range of activities and even has a barn with farm animals and a snack bar, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere, even during weekdays.

Why We Recommend It

Tanaka Farms has a variety of pick-your-own-pumpkin options, as well as engaging kids' activities like crafts and games.

Plan Ahead:

• Parking can fill up quickly on weekends, so it's a good idea to purchase parking and tickets online, especially if you plan to visit during the weekend.
• Like other patches, bring water bottles, snacks, hats, and sunblock to ensure a comfortable day out.

Irvine Regional Park, Irvine, CA: Where Magic Meets Pumpkins

While not a working farm, Irvine Regional Park transforms into a pumpkin-picking wonderland. This spot is perfect for families, offering a mini hay maze, a haunted house, and plenty of space for your little ones to run wild.

Must-Do Activities

Our favorites at Irvine Regional Park include the face painting station, carnival games where everyone's a winner, and the option to pack a picnic lunch in one of the many picturesque locations.

Extra Fun

Depending on the day of your visit, you can enjoy pony rides, rent bicycles, paddle boats, or take a ride on the train.

Insider Tips

• Parking is $5 on weekends and $3 during the week. Entrance to the pumpkin patch is free, but individual activities require tickets.

Honorable Mention - Carlsbad Strawberry Company: A Corn Maze Adventure

If you have some extra time, consider a visit to the Carlsbad Strawberry Company. While not as extensive as our top picks for best pumpkin patches in Southern California, it boasts a decent-sized pumpkin patch and an impressive corn maze.

Fun to Explore

You can enjoy pick-your-own pumpkins, explore the corn maze, check out the farmer's market, and find picturesque spots for photos. Note that the petting zoo may be closed at times.