The holiday season is the perfect time for families to come together and create lasting memories, and nothing says “holidays” quite like a trip to a Christmas tree farm. As a San Francisco family photographer, I know just how special it is to capture those genuine moments with your loved ones, surrounded by the magic of the season. Christmas tree farms offer more than just the opportunity to pick out a tree; they create an experience that’s filled with laughter, adventure, and a beautiful backdrop for family portraits.

For families in the Bay Area, there are plenty of Christmas tree farms that provide a festive setting to make your holiday photos truly stand out. Whether you’re looking for rustic mountain views or a cozy city spot, these seven Christmas tree farms near San Francisco are perfect locations to capture your family’s holiday spirit in a fun, relaxed environment. Each farm offers its unique charm, ensuring that your family photos will be as magical as the memories you make there.

7 Bay Area Christmas Tree Farms to Visit (and Capture Your Perfect Family Holiday Photo!) | San Francisco Family Photographer

1. Los Gatos Christmas Tree Farm – Los Gatos

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos Christmas Tree Farm feels like a hidden holiday retreat. With its expansive fields, mountain views, and dense rows of perfectly shaped trees, the farm creates a stunning backdrop for family photos. The atmosphere here is quiet and inviting, perfect for spending quality time together while selecting your Christmas tree. The farm offers a selection of lush, well-kept trees, including varieties like Douglas Firs, Noble Firs, and Monterey Pines.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: The mountain setting adds a unique, scenic dimension that complements the festive feel. The rows of trees create natural “frames” that guide the eye, making it ideal for portraits.
• Photography Tip: Early mornings provide the best light here. The golden hour gives a soft, natural glow that enhances the colors and textures of the pine trees, adding warmth to your family photos. Plus, an early visit helps avoid crowds, allowing for more candid moments.

2. ABC Tree Farms – Multiple Locations

ABC Tree Farms has multiple locations across the Bay Area, including in Pleasanton, San Jose, and Redwood City, making it easy for families to find a nearby spot. Beyond trees, many of these locations offer kid-friendly activities like hayrides, petting zoos, and play areas, giving the little ones something extra to look forward to. For families with young children, ABC Tree Farms provides a memorable holiday outing that’s filled with fun and laughter, which always shines through in photos.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: The variety of activities means you can capture more than just “posed” shots. Candid moments of kids on a hayride or petting animals add life and personality to your photos.
• Photography Tip: Bring holiday props like mugs, blankets, or ornaments to add a personal touch to your photos. A small plaid blanket can add coziness, and hot cocoa mugs are perfect for capturing intimate family moments.

3. Frosty Mountain Christmas Trees – Sebastopol

Located in the picturesque town of Sebastopol, Frosty Mountain Christmas Trees is a tranquil, family-owned farm known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. The farm’s layout includes spacious rows of Douglas Firs and Monterey Pines, providing a serene setting that’s both simple and beautiful. For families looking for a relaxed, rustic location, this is a wonderful option. Kids especially love exploring the rows of trees, while parents can take in the scenic views. As a San Francisco family photographer, this is definitely one of my personal favorites!

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: Frosty Mountain’s relaxed environment and natural beauty make it ideal for capturing authentic, joyful moments.
• Photography Tip: If you’re planning a late afternoon visit, the sunlight filtering through the trees provides a soft, warm ambiance. Posing near the cozy cabin on the property also adds a “winter cabin” feel to your photos, even if you’re still in the Bay Area!

4. Clancy’s Christmas Trees – San Francisco

A beloved spot in San Francisco, Clancy’s Christmas Trees is a city-based Christmas tree lot that has been around for over 70 years. While it may not offer sprawling countryside views, Clancy’s has a unique charm all its own, set up in the heart of the city. The vibrant decor, twinkling lights, and traditional holiday displays make Clancy’s a cozy and festive location for a family photoshoot. Plus, being located in the city makes it easy for San Francisco families to pop in for some seasonal fun without having to go far.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: For families who want a city twist on their holiday photos, Clancy’s has the perfect vibe. It’s ideal for those who want holiday magic with an urban edge, and it’s great for a shorter session with young kids who might need a quick photo op.
• Photography Tip: Visit Clancy’s during early evening hours when the holiday lights add a twinkling backdrop to your photos. The warm light from the Christmas tree lot creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a “city Christmas” look.

5. Repetto’s Nursery and Florist – Half Moon Bay

Just a short drive from San Francisco, Repetto’s Nursery and Florist in Half Moon Bay is a local favorite, especially for those who want a unique and visually rich holiday setting. The farm is beautifully decorated with holiday plants, wreaths, and a wide selection of Christmas trees, giving families plenty of photo opportunities beyond just the trees. The nursery setting also has the charm of being in an open-air plant nursery, so even when the fog rolls in, it adds a dreamy, atmospheric quality to photos.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: Half Moon Bay’s unique climate often lends a misty, foggy look that enhances the holiday vibe, especially if you’re going for a magical, wintry aesthetic.
• Photography Tip: Coordinate your family’s outfits with colors that pop against the natural greens and the muted foggy tones. Neutrals with pops of red or green look great here, bringing in festive color while blending with the lush surroundings.

6. Summit Christmas Tree Farm – Los Gatos

Summit Christmas Tree Farm, perched high in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers families a secluded, breathtaking location. The farm’s elevation provides expansive views over the mountains, and with well-spaced trees, you’ll have an easy time finding that perfect photo spot. Summit Christmas Tree Farm is an ideal location for families looking to combine their tree-picking adventure with an unforgettable family day trip. The trees are tall and healthy, and the entire location feels like a winter wonderland in the mountains.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: Summit’s mountain views provide an epic backdrop, giving a more elevated, expansive feel to your family photos.
• Photography Tip: The golden hour is fantastic here, as the warm light softens the mountainous landscape. For a romantic touch, plan to catch the sunset in the background for a magical, glowing family portrait.

7. Family Christmas Tree Farm – El Sobrante

Family Christmas Tree Farm in El Sobrante is a family-owned, low-key farm with an emphasis on tradition and community spirit. Known for its well-kept Monterey Pines and friendly service, this farm lets families cut their own trees, adding an element of fun and adventure. Kids love participating in the process, and parents can relax, knowing they’re in a safe, welcoming space. The classic, down-to-earth atmosphere here lends itself well to traditional, timeless holiday photos.

• Why It’s Great for San Francisco Family Photos: The warm, homey ambiance of this farm shines through in photos, making it perfect for families seeking a classic Christmas look.
• Photography Tip: Capture candid shots of your family exploring the farm. Wide-angle shots are excellent here, as they showcase the farm’s beautiful rows of trees, providing a sense of scale and adventure.

Additional Tips for Making the Most of Your Holiday Photoshoot at a Christmas Tree Farm

1. Dress Warmly and Comfortably: Bay Area weather can be unpredictable, especially on mountain farms. Dress in layers so you’re comfortable throughout the day, and add cozy accessories like scarves and hats for extra warmth and a seasonal look.
2. Coordinate Outfits: Opt for colors that complement the farm’s natural green hues. Traditional reds, whites, and earthy tones add a festive yet timeless look, while patterns like plaid add a touch of holiday spirit.
3. Plan for Low Crowds: Weekends can be busy at popular tree farms, so if possible, try to plan a weekday visit or arrive early in the morning.
4. Bring Seasonal Props: Small, portable props like holiday mugs, plaid blankets, or cozy throws help add a festive touch to your photos, making them look warm and inviting.
5. Relax and Enjoy the Moment: The best family photos are the ones that capture genuine moments. Embrace the experience, let the kids run around a bit, and remember that candid shots often become the most cherished holiday memories.

Ready to Capture the Holiday Spirit with Your Family?

Each of these Bay Area Christmas tree farms offers a unique experience, from rustic mountain backdrops to urban holiday charm. For families who want a special holiday experience and beautiful photos to remember it by, these farms provide the perfect setting. If you’re interested in booking San Francisco family photos, I’m here to help guide you through capturing those joyful moments, ensuring your holiday memories are beautifully preserved.

Wondering how a session will look like with a San Francisco Family Photographer? Check out my most recent family session blog post to see the magic we can create! If you are looking for a lifestyle San Francisco family photographer, be sure to check out my portfolio and contact me today to discuss your ideal family photography session! Also be sure to follow me on Instagram to see my latest work!