Bates Nut Farm

Its official site says the 2026 pumpkin patch runs Thursday, September 17 through Saturday, October 31, with farm hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The Bates Nut Farm has “become well known for its special events held throughout the year on the 100 acre ranch. For over 30 years families have made it an annual tradition to come out to Bates during the month of October to celebrate the fall season.  The Pumpkin Patch is the largest, oldest and most famous in San Diego County. Arts & Crafts Fairs, Antiques, Collectibles & Crafts Markets, Fine Art Fairs, and Car Shows are held throughout the year. 

Our Farm Zoo is open daily from 9am - 5pm. Visit with mini-donkeys, goats, sheep, alpacas, emus, chickens, peacocks, ducks, geese, a tortoise & more! The animals love visitors, and will eat from your hands. Bags of animal feed can be purchased for $0.50; admission is free, $5.00 parking on October weekends. Open year round.

Make a day of it and bring a picnic to enjoy under the shade trees. Many families bring balls, bubbles and games for the kids to play. The picnic areas are open year round from 9am - 5pm.

Starting Late September - October 31, we’ll be here all week. Come down and create some memories of hayrides, maze, petting corral, pony rides, BBQ, and of course pick your perfect pumpkins from our unique varieties.”