Just a short drive from El Dorado Hills, about 30 minutes east, you’ll find Rainbow Orchards in the charming town of Camino. This family-run farm has been dishing out delicious apples and other treats since 1977, making it a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for fresh fruit.
The Rainbow Orchards Experience
When you roll up to Rainbow Orchards, the first thing that’ll hit you is the smell of fresh apple cider donuts. These little rings of joy are the stuff of legend around here. People come from all over Northern California to get their hands on these hot, crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated pieces of heaven.
The owners, Tom and Christa (aka “Farmer Tom” and the “Donut Queen”), guard their recipe like it’s the secret to eternal youth. Christa jokes that if you want to know how they’re made, you must buy the whole farm!
But don’t let the donuts distract you from everything Rainbow Orchards offers. This place is like an amusement park for fruit lovers. Here’s what you can expect:
The Apple Barn
Step into the historic barn from the 1920s, which used to be a cider mill. Now, it’s where the magic happens. Depending on the season, you’ll find fresh apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, and blueberries. The fruit here isn’t just good; it’s “write home to mama” good.
The Bake Shop
If you thought the donuts were the only baked goods, think again. The bake shop whips fresh fruit pies, cobblers, and crisps that’ll make you want to slap your grandma (don’t actually do that, though). They use fruit grown on the farm, so you know it’s the real deal.
Cider Central
Rainbow Orchards takes their cider seriously. They press it on the farm, and you can taste the difference. Those who like a little kick also make old-fashioned hard cider with no additives, extra flavoring, and pure fermented apple goodness.
Wine Not?
Yep, they make wine, too. Rainbow Orchards has its vineyard and produces award-winning wines like Petit Syrah, Syrah, and something called Camino Ridge Vin Rouge. On weekends during apple season, you can do some outdoor wine tasting. It’s like being in Napa but with more apples and fewer wine snobs.
The Rainbow Family
Tom and Christa aren’t just business owners but part of the community. They’re involved in all sorts of local non-profit work, trying to make El Dorado County an even better place to live. Their kids and grandkids are now part of the Rainbow Orchards crew, making it a true family affair.
When to Visit
Rainbow Orchards is open from late August through early December. The exact hours can change, so it’s best to check their website before you head out. But here’s a pro tip: if you’re a blueberry fan, come in mid-June to mid-July. They open up their Camino Ridge location for “You Pick” blueberries. Five varieties, mountain views, and all the berries you can eat? Yes, please!
Why You Should Go
Look, there are plenty of places to get apples and cider. But Rainbow Orchards isn’t just selling fruit; they’re selling an experience. Where else can you munch on a hot cider donut, sip some hard cider, and then pick your blueberries with a view of the coast range?
Plus, these folks have been part of the Apple Hill Growers Association for 45 years—longer than most of us have been alive. They know their apples and how to show people a good time.
So, next time you’re near El Dorado Hills, craving something sweet, fresh, or just plain fun, take that 30-minute drive to Camino. Rainbow Orchards is waiting with open arms and hot donuts. Just be prepared for the lines – everyone else also knows how good it is!
Location:
Rainbow Orchards
2569 Larsen Drive
Camino, CA 95709
A trip to Rainbow Orchards isn’t just about buying fruit. It’s about making memories, supporting local farmers, and eating so many donuts that you must unbutton your pants on the drive home. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Sources: rainboworchards.net
Header Image Source: sierranevadageotourism.org
