California enters the holiday season with a treasure hunt for the freshest Christmas trees, and families across the state set out with high hopes and festive spirits.
Farms stretch from misty northern forests to sunny southern hillsides, each one offering evergreens that stand proud and promise that classic holiday glow.
A fresh-cut tree turns any home into a warm, sparkling haven, and Californians know the right pick can make the season shine brighter than a string of lights.
Shoppers seek rich color, sturdy branches, and that unmistakable fragrance that signals Christmas has arrived.
With so many standout farms scattered across the state, the search becomes an adventure filled with charm, character, and memories ready to take root.
1. Christmas Ranch Tree Farms – Thousand Oaks
Nestled in the scenic hills of Thousand Oaks, Christmas Ranch Tree Farms offers an authentic holiday experience that brings families together.
Located at 1586 Pederson Road, this beloved farm has earned a stellar 4.6-star rating from happy visitors who return year after year.
The farm opens its gates throughout the week, making it easy to find time for this special tradition.
What makes this place stand out is the genuine ranch atmosphere combined with quality trees.
Weekday visitors can stop by between noon and 7 PM, while weekend adventurers get extra time with hours starting at 9 AM.
The extended Saturday and Sunday schedule gives families more flexibility to explore and find their dream tree without feeling rushed.
Walking through the rows of fresh evergreens fills the air with that unmistakable pine scent that signals the holidays have arrived.
The farm grows various tree types to suit different home sizes and decorating styles.
Friendly staff members are always ready to help with tree selection and loading.
The location provides convenient access for Ventura County residents and visitors exploring Southern California during the festive season.
2. Mountain High Tree Farm – Santa Cruz Mountains
High in the Santa Cruz Mountains, located at 23100 Mountain Charlie Rd, Los Gatos, families discover a winter wonderland where Christmas trees grow tall and proud under California sunshine.
Mountain High Tree Farm specializes in premium Douglas firs and Noble firs that thrive in the cool mountain climate.
The elevation creates perfect growing conditions, producing trees with thick branches and rich green needles.
Visitors often comment on the stunning views available while tree shopping here.
The mountain setting adds an extra layer of magic to the experience, with crisp air and natural beauty surrounding every path.
Children love exploring the hillside terrain, turning tree hunting into an exciting adventure.
The farm provides saws and assistance for those wanting to cut their own tree, creating a hands-on experience that builds lasting memories.
Staff members share helpful tips about tree care and selecting the right size for your space.
Fresh wreaths and garlands are also available for decorating doorways and mantels.
Getting to this mountain location requires a scenic drive, but the journey itself becomes part of the holiday fun.
Many families make it a full-day outing, packing hot chocolate and snacks.
The farm typically operates on weekends during the Christmas season, so checking ahead ensures you catch them when they’re open and ready to welcome visitors.
3. Santa & Sons Christmas Trees – Los Angeles County
Tucked into the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles County, Santa & Sons Christmas Trees brings a piece of traditional holiday magic to city dwellers who long for a real-tree experience.
Though the trees come from their family-owned, sustainably-certified Oregon farm, the lot at 12901 Burbank Blvd (on the grounds of Los Angeles Valley College) gives locals easy access to fresh, high-quality firs without leaving the metro area.
Visitors can choose among a wide range of firs — from compact tabletop trees to stately 16-footer specimens — including popular varieties such as Noble Fir, Silver Tip Fir, Nordmann Fir, and Douglas Fir.
What’s more, Santa & Sons isn’t just about trees — they’re rooted in a legacy of sustainable, environmentally conscious growing.
Their Oregon farm is certified under green-farming standards, and the business was among the founding members of the Coalition of Environmentally Conscious Growers.
From the moment you arrive at their lot — where staff help tie down your tree and, in many cases, offer free delivery within parts of L.A. County — the experience feels personal and family-oriented.
4. Big Wave Dave’s Christmas Trees – San Diego County
Bringing a unique coastal vibe to Christmas tree shopping, Big Wave Dave’s stands out in San Diego County with personality and quality, located at 103 S Mills Rd, Ventura.
The name alone hints at the beach-inspired atmosphere that makes this place memorable.
Surfboard decorations and laid-back California style mix with traditional holiday cheer in an unexpected way.
Noble firs and Nordmann firs are the stars here, shipped fresh from Oregon and Washington farms.
While not grown on-site, the trees arrive regularly to ensure maximum freshness.
The selection process focuses on quality, with only the best specimens making it to the lot.
What sets Big Wave Dave’s apart is the attention to customer service and the fun shopping environment.
Staff members bring enthusiasm to their work, making tree selection feel less like a chore and more like a celebration.
They offer free tree shaking, drilling, and netting to prepare your tree for the journey home.
The location takes advantage of San Diego’s mild winter climate, allowing comfortable shopping even in December.
You won’t need heavy coats or worry about snow while browsing the selection.
The lot typically sets up in convenient locations with ample parking, making it easy for families to visit, choose their tree, and load it without hassle or stress.
5. Peltzer Pines Christmas Tree Farm – Temecula
In the heart of Temecula’s wine country, located at 7851 Black Star Canyon Rd, Silverado, Peltzer Pines offers a delightful blend of agriculture and holiday tradition.
The farm grows Aleppo pines, a species particularly well-suited to Southern California’s Mediterranean climate.
These trees develop distinctive character with their open branching pattern and soft needles that resist dropping.
Families appreciate the cut-your-own option, which transforms tree shopping into an interactive experience.
Armed with provided saws, even children can participate safely in the harvesting process.
The farm’s gentle terrain makes walking between trees easy for visitors of all ages and abilities.
The setting in wine country adds sophistication to the rustic farm experience.
Rolling hills covered in grapevines create a picturesque backdrop for your tree hunt.
Many visitors combine their tree shopping with stops at nearby wineries, making it a full day of Temecula exploration.
Peltzer Pines also features a farm stand selling seasonal items like wreaths, mistletoe, and holiday decorations.
The friendly atmosphere encourages lingering, with space to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Operating primarily on weekends during the season, the farm maintains reasonable prices while delivering quality trees and excellent customer experiences that keep families returning every year to continue their holiday traditions in this beautiful California setting.
6. Sand Haven Pines – Riverside County
Tucked into the hills near Perris in Riverside County — 19255 Wood Rd, Perris, — Sand Haven Pines brings rustic holiday charm and family-friendly fun to SoCal residents each Christmas season.
Originally established decades ago, this family-owned Christmas-tree farm has built a reputation on healthy, lush Monterey Pine trees — available for both “choose-and-cut” and pre-cut or potted options — giving visitors flexibility depending on how deeply they want to get into the holiday tradition.
But Sand Haven Pines is more than just a tree lot: it’s designed as a festive, immersive experience.
Visitors are welcomed with warm fire pits, complimentary hot coffee, popcorn, and free candy canes — perfect for a chilly holiday outing.
Kids (and the young at heart) can enjoy a bouncy house or other seasonal activities, while families take photos, sometimes even with Santa himself, turning tree-hunting into a memorable outing.
The farm offers a full suite of services to make taking the tree home easy: staff will cut, shake, net, and even carry your tree to the car — or help load it if needed.
Plus, if you prefer to plan ahead, they allow reservations: you can choose your favorite tree early, pay to reserve it, and pick it up later so it stays fresh until you’re ready.
Choosing a tree at Sand Haven Pines isn’t just a transaction — it’s a tradition.
With their friendly staff, festive touches, and wide selection of evergreens, they make it easy for families to find anything from a cozy small tree to a full-size centerpiece, while enjoying a warm, welcoming holiday atmosphere.
7. Colley Tree Farm – Northern California
Where California meets true winter conditions, Colley Tree Farm operates in the shadow of the state’s iconic volcano, at 1301 Hilltop Dr, Redding.
The northern location provides cold temperatures and occasional snow, creating an authentic Christmas atmosphere rare in the Golden State.
Noble firs and Grand firs thrive in this cooler climate, developing the characteristics that make them premium choices.
The dramatic mountain backdrop elevates tree shopping to a spectacular visual experience.
Snow-dusted peaks tower over the farm, creating postcard-worthy scenes.
Families often take photos among the trees with Mt. Shasta looming majestically behind them, capturing memories that go beyond just finding a tree.
Trees grown here develop dense needle coverage and strong branch structure from adapting to mountain conditions.
The natural environment produces hardier specimens compared to trees grown in milder regions.
Cold nights and moderate summers create ideal growing cycles that result in superior quality.
The farm typically operates during November and December weekends, weather permitting.
Winter conditions mean visitors should dress warmly and be prepared for potential snow or ice.
The extra effort required to reach this remote location pays off with exceptional trees and an experience that feels like traveling to a classic Christmas movie setting rather than staying in California.
8. Clements Tree Farm – El Dorado County
Situated in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills, at 3340 Greenwood Ln, Placerville, Clements Tree Farm offers a genuine mountain experience just a short drive from Sacramento.
El Dorado County’s elevation provides cooler temperatures that help Christmas trees develop their best qualities.
Douglas firs and white firs grow abundantly here, benefiting from the region’s natural rainfall and soil composition.
The farm has operated for multiple generations, passing down knowledge and commitment to quality.
This family tradition shows in every aspect of the operation, from tree care to customer service.
Visitors often comment on the welcoming atmosphere and helpful advice provided by the Clements family members themselves.
Walking the farm’s trails offers more than just tree shopping.
The surrounding forest and rolling hills create a peaceful setting where families can slow down and enjoy nature.
Wildlife sightings are common, adding unexpected delight to the adventure.
The farm maintains wide paths that accommodate strollers and wagons for hauling trees.
Clements provides all necessary equipment for cutting your chosen tree, along with assistance in loading it onto your vehicle.
They also offer pre-cut options for those preferring convenience over the full experience.
The farm’s season typically runs from Thanksgiving through mid-December, with weekends being the busiest times.
Planning a weekday visit can provide a more relaxed experience with personalized attention from staff members.