Bates Nut Farm

Bates Nut Farm is a family farm on Woods Valley Road in Valley Center, run by the same family since 1921. Its 2026 pumpkin patch is open every day from September 17 through Saturday, October 31.

What are the October hours?

Weekdays 9 AM to 5:30 PM and weekends 8:30 AM to 6 PM. On the last three Fridays of October (October 9, 16 and 23) it stays open until 6:30 PM.

Does it cost anything to get in?

Admission and parking are free except on October weekends. Hayrides, the straw maze and other activities are paid separately at the ticket booth, and the farm zoo is always free.

What is there for kids?

Tractor hayrides and the straw maze run daily, and in October there are pony rides, a petting corral, a corn pit and a bounce house. Weekends add face painting, rock climbing and an inflatable slide.