American River Cherry Company sits in the heart of Placerville‘s Gold Country, a seasonal farm that runs from late May through mid-July when the cherries are at their peak. What makes this place different from most u-pick operations is that your dog can actually come along while you’re picking—they won’t have to wait in a hot car while you’re out in the orchards.

The farm spreads across over 1,000 cherry trees with about 24 rows of berries mixed in, so there’s plenty of space to wander without feeling crowded. Their signature crop is the Utah Giant cherry, the variety so popular it’s been served at the White House. You’ll also find other cherry varieties and a good selection of berries depending on what week you visit during the season.

Walking through the rows with a dog is genuinely pleasant. The rows are wide enough that you’re not navigating tight spaces, and the ground is manageable for most dogs. The Sierra foothills views in the background don’t hurt either. You can pick at your own pace—there’s no pressure to hit quotas or move quickly. Bring water for both yourself and your dog, especially since the farm can get warm in late June and early July when the best picking happens. The grassy areas between sections work well if you need to take a break and let your dog rest in the shade.

The staff knows their fruit and will help you figure out which cherries are actually ready to pick (it’s easier than you’d think to grab ones that aren’t quite ripe). They’re also straightforward about their dog policies, so it’s worth asking when you arrive about any specific expectations for your visit. Pack a picnic if you want to stay longer—there’s definitely room to settle in for a while. Bring containers or bags for your haul, though they can provide picking buckets if you need them.