Rainbow Orchards, a third-generation family farm in Camino, lets you and your dog roam through apple, pear, peach, nectarine, and blueberry trees in the Apple Hill region. You’ve got thirty years of mountain-grown fruit here, and the farm actively welcomes dogs to pick alongside you.

The setup is straightforward — you walk the orchard rows together, picking what’s ripe. It’s the kind of place where your dog can actually be part of the experience rather than sitting it out. The views across the landscape are genuinely nice, especially in fall when the harvest is in full swing. Bring a basket for fruit and a collapsible bowl for water, since the picking involves real walking and your dog will need to stay hydrated.

There’s a picnic area where you can spread out whatever you’ve picked and let your dog rest nearby. It’s not fancy, but that’s the point — you’re here to pick fruit and be outside, not to be entertained. The farm sometimes runs seasonal events, so if you’re heading to the area during a specific time of year, it’s worth checking what’s happening.

The Apple Hill region itself has enough going on that you could easily make this a half-day or full-day trip. Nearby orchards and farm stands give you options if you want to browse around, and the elevation means temperatures stay reasonable even when the valley is scorching. The drive from the Bay Area or Sacramento isn’t terrible, usually running an hour or so depending on where you’re starting.

What makes Rainbow Orchards different from a farmers market is the actual orchard walk — your dog gets to be in the trees with you rather than waiting outside a building. It’s a more genuine experience for both of you. Come prepared for dirt and sun, bring enough water for two, and you’ll have a solid afternoon of picking fruit in the foothills.