June 21–22 & June 28–29, 2025 | Camino, CA
When it comes to sensory-rich summer adventures in the Sierra foothills, few experiences rival the fragrant beauty and pastoral charm of Lavender Blue Harvest Days in Apple Hill. Hosted across two weekends—June 21–22 and June 28–29, 2025—this blooming celebration is far more than a farm event; it’s a seasonal rite of passage that blends summer flavor, family fun, and high-country hospitality into one unforgettable outing.
Where Lavender Meets Adventure
Nestled just above Placerville along Highway 50, Apple Hill has long been a favorite fall destination. But summer? Summer is for the wildflowers, the wine, and the lavender. And during Lavender Blue Harvest Days, the hills roll out a new reason to make the drive—a patchwork of purple fields and blueberry rows, open-air tastings, and slow moments among the vines.
At the heart of the experience is Bluestone Meadow Farm, where visitors can:
- Cut their own lavender bouquets
- Weave wreaths and lavender critters
- Wander the whimsical Lavender Labyrinth
- Let kids explore the interactive Kid Zone
- Learn from the resident “Lavender Answer Guy” about growing and using this versatile herb
Reservations for parking at Bluestone Meadow are highly recommended and cost $5 per vehicle.
Blueberry Mornings & Local Flavors
Start your day early at Rainbow Camino Ridge, where the You-Pick Blueberry fields open at 7 AM (weekend mornings only). These quiet morning hours offer a slower pace, cooler temperatures, and the simple joy of filling a basket with summer’s sweetest bounty.
Then, head out across Apple Hill for a self-guided tasting tour of participating farms and wineries, many of which offer unique lavender- or blueberry-infused specialties:
Highlights Include:
- Jack Russell Brewery – Blueberry pancake breakfast, lavender cocktails, and dessert pizza in a relaxed beer garden setting
- Delfino Farms – Handmade summer desserts and wine tasting at Edio Vineyards
- Harris Tree Farm – Lavender lemonade and mini donuts to pair with shaded picnics
- Starfield Vineyards & Wofford Acres – Wine with a view (and discounts!)
- Hidden Star – Blueberry-lavender cider and warm cobbler worth the drive alone
- Fenton Herriott – Live music into the evening and paint-and-sip classes for the creatively inclined
From picnic spots and live music to artisan markets and kid-friendly zones, Lavender Blue Harvest Days offers a little bit of everything Sierra Rec readers love—local flavor, scenic charm, and the kind of small-town celebration that turns a day trip into a tradition.
Know Before You Go:
- Location: Apple Hill (Camino, CA) – 45 minutes east of Sacramento
- Dates: June 21–22 & June 28–29, 2025
- Bring: Sunscreen, picnic blankets, reusable shopping bags, and early morning energy for blueberry picking
- Parking at Bluestone Meadow: $5 per vehicle, reservations recommended
- Tasting Events: Vary by location, some require reservations
Want to make it a weekend? Pair your visit with a hike in nearby El Dorado National Forest, a night at a local B&B, or a sunset walk along the South Fork of the American River.
Summer in the Sierra is short. Let Lavender Blue Harvest Days be your excuse to slow down, explore, and breathe in something beautiful.
More info: Apple Hill Growers Website
Plan your Sierra adventure: Sierra Rec Magazine Trip Itineraries
