Dear Audrey: Is the Pumpkin Patch Really Worth It?

Dear Audrey,

My kids want to go to the pumpkin patch every year, but pumpkins at Costco are so much cheaper. Is the pumpkin patch really worth it? And where should we go?

— Budget Mom in Rocklin

Dear Budget Mom,

I love this question, because I ask myself the same thing every fall. I have two girls, and every September the question starts: "When are we going to the pumpkin patch?" Sound familiar?

Here's my honest answer. You don't have to choose. Do both.

Is it cheaper to buy pumpkins at the store?

Usually, yes. Think of it like coffee. Coffee at home is cheaper. But sometimes you go to the café for the moment, not just the drink.

Pumpkins work the same way. The grocery store usually gives you the better deal on the pumpkin itself. The pumpkin patch gives you the better deal on the whole day: the hay ride, the fresh air, the photos, and the memories.

My tip? Let your kids pick one special pumpkin at the patch. Then grab extra carving pumpkins at the store if you want to save. And here's a bonus: farm pumpkins are freshly cut, so they often last longer on your porch.

I'll share a little secret. I grew up in Seoul, Korea, where every child learns early: "Don't play with food!" So carving pumpkins, and even launching them from a slingshot, was a big surprise to me when I came here. Maybe you can relate?

So where should you go? Let me start with our family favorite.

Why Is Bishop's Pumpkin Farm Our Family Favorite?

Bishop's Pumpkin Farm is at 1415 Pumpkin Lane in Wheatland, about 20 miles north of Roseville. When I lived in Modesto, I loved going to Dell'Osso Family Farm. After I moved here, I was so happy to find Bishop's, because it has that same big farm fun. It's where our family goes now, and it's the big one for many families around here.

Here's the best part for your budget: admission is free, 7 days a week. The farm is open every day through November 15, 2026.

What do local families love most at Bishop's?

Every family has its own favorite part. Here's what local parents love most:

• The free hay ride. A tractor pulls you out to the pumpkin field, and you pick your own pumpkin right off the ground. Families say it makes grown-ups feel like kids again.
• The huge fields. You'll find pumpkins in every shape and size.
• Things to do. There's a corn maze, three hay mazes from easy to hard, a petting zoo, a train, and a carousel. Parents of little ones say the petting zoo is a highlight.
• The treats. The apple cider slushie is a local favorite, and so are the fresh baked goods. Honestly, can you really leave without one?

How can you save money at Bishop's?

Most rides need tickets. Parents like that you can buy tickets one at a time or in a bundle, so you decide how much to spend.

My biggest money tip: go in September if you can. In September, weekend parking is free, and you can buy "All You Can Ride" wristbands, which aren't sold on October weekends. Parking is also free in November. In October, there's a parking fee on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so check the farm's calendar for the price. One nice surprise: parking is free on Halloween, October 31.

Local moms also point out that you can bring your own food. Pack snacks and a picnic, and save the treat money for that slushie.

What should you know before you go?

• Wear good shoes. Bishop's is a real working farm, and the ground is uneven.
• Leave the dog at home. Pets aren't allowed, except on the final "Dog Dayz" weekend in November.
• See giant pumpkins. Bishop's is home to the National Pumpkin Weigh Off, where growers bring their biggest pumpkins. This year it's Saturday, September 26.

Is There a Pumpkin Patch Closer to Roseville and Rocklin?

Yes! If Wheatland feels like a long drive with little ones, here are two great choices closer to home.

Deer Creek Farm, Rocklin

The Pumpkin Patch at Deer Creek Farm is at 5465 Pacific Street in Rocklin. It's open September 25 through October 31, 2026, and there's no entry fee.

You'll find cooking, decorating, and carving pumpkins, plus a kids' play area. On weekends from 11 am to 3 pm, there's face painting and balloon characters. It's perfect for a quick after-school stop.

Little Field Farms, Loomis

Little Field Farms is at 9000 Horseshoe Bar Road in Loomis, and it's open in October. There's a corn maze, fun photo spots, and a mini-pumpkin slingshot. Kids love launching those little pumpkins!

What's the Most Unique Pumpkin Patch in Roseville?

Have you ever picked a pumpkin out of a swimming pool? Roseville's Floating Pumpkin Patch is on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Mike Shellito Indoor Pool.

Kids pick a pumpkin right out of the pool, then decorate it. There are games, bounce houses, and crafts too. Costumes are encouraged! Registration is required through the City of Roseville, so sign up early.

Audrey's Bottom Line

The pumpkin patch isn't really about the pumpkin. It's about the day you spend together. Go for the experience, go in September if you can, and buy your extra carving pumpkins at the store. Your wallet and your kids will both be happy.

Warmly, Audrey

Frequently Asked Questions

Is admission free at Bishop's Pumpkin Farm?

Yes. Admission is free 7 days a week. Most rides need tickets, and parking costs extra on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October.

Can I bring my dog to Bishop's?

Not most of the season. Pets are only welcome on the final "Dog Dayz" weekend in November.

Is there a pumpkin patch in Rocklin?

Yes. The Pumpkin Patch at Deer Creek Farm on Pacific Street is open through October 31, 2026, with no entry fee.

When is the best time to visit Bishop's?

September is a great time. Weekend parking is free, and "All You Can Ride" wristbands are available.

Do farm pumpkins last longer than store pumpkins?

They often do. Farm pumpkins are freshly cut, so they usually stay fresh longer on your porch.

Dates, hours, and prices can change. Please check each farm's website before you go.

Have a question for me?

Whether it's about your home, the market, or the best pumpkin patch in town, I'd love to hear from you. Send me your question, and it may be answered in a future "Ask Audrey" column. I always keep your name private.

Audrey Kim, REALTOR®

eXp Realty of California | DRE #02093758

Call or text: (916) 918-5252

Email: audrey@audreyRE.com

Website: audreykim.exprealty.com

Office: 915 Highland Pointe Dr, Suite 200, Roseville, CA 95678