If you’re not familiar, the Apple Hill Growers Association in Placerville and Camino, CA, is a favorite destination during October, known for its family-friendly farms, fresh-baked goodies, and gorgeous fall scenery. One standout spot among the farms is Abel’s Apple Acres.
This charming farm has it all: a cozy barn packed with pies, pastries, holiday decorations, books, and pantry items, plus hot food options for lunch. Beyond that, they offer plenty of outdoor fun like a maze, gemstone mining, picnic spots with benches and bug shelters, and a craft fair. The farm has a warm, old-fashioned farm feel that keeps me coming back to Apple Hill year after year.
What really makes Abel’s special are the unique treats and activities. Their award-worthy caramel apples are unforgettable, especially the apple pie caramel apple - a fresh picked apple dipped in caramel, white chocolate fudge, and cinnamon sugar. It’s one of those iconic treats that really captures the magic of Apple Hill, alongside their apple cider & donuts.
During our latest visit, I planned to take the kids to three farms but ended up staying longer at Abel’s because they were having such a great time, running around and sampling the apple treats. We left with our hands full after trying an apple donut, apple pie slice, caramel apple, and an apple empanada. Each treat was so good that I got thumbs up from the kids with every bite. Let’s just say, I wouldn’t dream of leaving without bringing home some of that apple magic.
For lunch, I ordered a tri-tip sandwich piled with meat and onions. It was fresh and lightly seasoned, which worked well with the condiments they had on hand. My kids were happy with their hot dog meal, complete with chips, crackers, a lollipop, and milk. Not every farm on the hill serves hot lunch, so it’s a good idea to check the Apple Hill guide ahead of time if you’re looking for a hot meal.
Notes for Visiting Apple Hill
-Best Time to Go: October can get very busy, so visiting on a weekday or as soon as the farms open can help you avoid the crowds. Late September/early November is also a great option for a quieter experience with minimal crowds.
-Bring a Cooler: If you're coming from out of town, pack a cooler to keep any goodies fresh for the ride home.
-Maze: Open on weekends only
-Gemstone Mining: Purchase gemstone mining bags at checkout near the caramel apples.
-Specialty Caramel Apples: This farm has the widest selection to choose from.
-Photo Ops: Plenty of fun photo cutouts around the farm.
-Vendors: A variety of vendors are available on the deck during peak times.
-Best Time to Go: October can get very busy, so visiting on a weekday or as soon as the farms open can help you avoid the crowds. Late September/early November is also a great option for a quieter experience with minimal crowds.
-Bring a Cooler: If you're coming from out of town, pack a cooler to keep any goodies fresh for the ride home.
-Maze: Open on weekends only
-Gemstone Mining: Purchase gemstone mining bags at checkout near the caramel apples.
-Specialty Caramel Apples: This farm has the widest selection to choose from.
-Photo Ops: Plenty of fun photo cutouts around the farm.
-Vendors: A variety of vendors are available on the deck during peak times.
***Information subject to change. All opinions are my own.
Photography
© Katherine Fung,
All Rights Reserved.
Categorized under Apple Hill Grower's Association ---> Seasonal/Holidays
