SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - In San Diego we celebrate the seasons, and October is the season for a trip to Bates Nut Farm for old fashioned family fun. Walter Bates grew up working on the farm his grandfather founded 90 years ago.
"My grandfather planted walnuts," Walter said.
Today, Bates Nut Farm is famous for its pumpkin patch.
"People are really in a good mood when they come out. It's amazing. Sometimes we get pretty good sized crowds, but they're all smiles," Walter said.
Bates was also the scene of my biggest on-air blunder. While doing the weather, I called it "Nate's Butt Farm".
In October, Nate's -- I mean Bates -- showcases all its country charms. The tractor-train ride rolls you past the hay bale maze and by the patch where the perfect pumpkin is ready to be plucked. Smaller ones are brought onto the property, and large ones that can weigh up to 200 pounds are grown right on the premises.
Sherrie Bates-Ness is part of the fourth generation of the Bates family to work the land.
"I feel very fortunate that we've been able to keep it all going all of these years," Sherrie said.
The family is dedicated to making a day on the farm a hands-on experience.
"This time of year we even have a petting corral where the kids can go in with the animals," Sherrie said.
This is an ageless place frozen in a simpler time, when a trip to the country was a special occasion. In the gift shop you can take home some retro treats, but what Bates Nut Farm really offers is the preservation of priceless memories.
Bates Nut Farm
15954 Woods Valley Road
Valley Center, CA 92082
(760) 749-3333
