Lisa Gipson
Take a Day Trip to
Oak Glen
Seasonal highlights such as apple picking, pumpkin farms and
hayrides make Oak Glen very popular in the fall, but don’t overlook the fact that it’s a year-round destination offering fresh mountain air, fabulous living history experiences and loads of family fun. Ready to take a day trip and explore? Oak Glen is just two hours northeast of San Diego in the San Bernardino Mountains. Whether you’re accompanying your child on a class field trip or planning a family excursion of your own, here are some of the awesome things to do in the area.
Los Rios Rancho
Oak Tree Village
Oak Glen Preserve
From Labor Day to Thanksgiving Los Rios Rancho offers apple picking (pumpkins in early October), live music, hayrides, horse rides, U-press apple cider on an antique press, and tours of the historic packing house. Anytime of the year, shop the country store for specialty food items, adorable home décor and gifts; grab lunch in the sandwich shop/bakery and picnic on the lawn (weather permitting); and be sure to set aside time to visit Oak Glen Preserve next door—an absolute delight (see details on this page). Fun seasonal events include Old West Days (Aug.), an Apple Butter Festival (Nov.) and Apple Blossom Festival (April). Follow Los Rios Rancho on Instagram or Facebook for up-to-date information. www.losriosrancho.com
Stop by Apple Annie’s Bakery for a delicious Apple Betty (pastry filled and topped with apples) or a Mile-High Apple Pie (it’s a whopping five pounds!) and Village Candy Kitchen for handmade confections, caramel apples, and barrels full of vintage candies. Kids enjoy the Animal Park & Petting Farm, featuring ponies, goats, pigs, horses and llamas. Oak Tree Village also features seasonal events for families. www.oaktreevillage.info
Don’t miss this hidden gem located right next to Los Rios Rancho. The Wildlands Conservancy, whose mission is “to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the earth and provide programs so children may know the wonder and joy of nature,” does just that. Well-maintained nature trails feature interactive Kids Quiz stations that encourage kids to explore the natural world. Discover drastically contrasting eco-regions along a single trail, surrounded by gorgeous mountains. Enjoy the shade of California Conifers, stroll through botanic gardens, find boulders engraved with inspiring quotes and spend time bird watching on a floating dock. Admission is free; donations accepted. Check the Oak Glen Preserve Facebook page for guided nature walks, junior ranger programs and other unplugged family fun. v
26 • SanDiegofamily.com • September 2018
Lisa Gipson is managing editor of San Diego Family Magazine and mom of three girls.