Stepladder Ranch and Creamery
Experience a magical farmstead creamery with cuddly goats and award-winning artisan cheeses on California's Central Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Goats are extra cuddly!
Stepladder Ranch and Creamery
Best Time
Goats are extra cuddly!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a magical farmstead creamery with cuddly goats and award-winning artisan cheeses on California's Central Coast.
"This ranch and creamery was what dreams are made of! A must-see experience."
🎯 Book Tours Online
Tours are popular and essential for the full experience. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
🐐 Cuddle the Goats
The goats are super friendly and love attention. Get ready for some gentle headbutts! :goat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goat Farm Tour
The Ranch
Get up close and personal with incredibly friendly goats. Learn about their care and enjoy their affectionate nature.
Artisan Cheese Tasting
Creamery Shop
Savor award-winning goat and cow milk cheeses. Discover unique flavors and find your new favorite.
Creamery Insights
Creamery Viewing Area
See firsthand where the magic happens, from milking to cheese production. Understand the farm-to-table process.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Goat Cuddles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Online
Tours are popular and essential for the full experience. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
🐐 Cuddle the Goats
The goats are super friendly and love attention. Get ready for some gentle headbutts! :goat:
🧀 Taste All the Cheeses
Don't miss the cheese tasting! Many visitors buy more than they planned. :cheese_wedge:
🚗 Plan Your Visit
Located in Cambria, CA, it's a great stop when visiting Hearst Castle or Paso Robles wine country.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Online
Tours are popular and essential for the full experience. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
🐐 Cuddle the Goats
The goats are super friendly and love attention. Get ready for some gentle headbutts! :goat:
🧀 Taste All the Cheeses
Don't miss the cheese tasting! Many visitors buy more than they planned. :cheese_wedge:
🚗 Plan Your Visit
Located in Cambria, CA, it's a great stop when visiting Hearst Castle or Paso Robles wine country.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stepladder Ranch and Creamery for its magical farm experience, highlighting the incredibly friendly goats and the delicious, award-winning cheeses. The knowledgeable and kind tour guides enhance the educational and enjoyable atmosphere, making it a highly recommended stop for families and food lovers alike. Some wish they had more time to spend or had known about the place sooner.
"Went on a farm tour for my bachelorette party and it was THE MOST AMAZING DAY EVER!
The goats and so happy and well loved and our tour guide was soo knowledgeable, kind, and accommodating. Highly recommend this experience to anyone. The cheese is amazing, the property is amazing, the goats are, dare I say the… G.O.A.T. Can’t say enough good things!"
Riley Halasey
"Kristin and the entire goat family were so welcoming and lovely. You can tell everyone here-goats included!- are so happy to be working on this magical property. We came with a large group and could not have had more fun. Highly recommend!"
Darcy Wyke
"I went on a tour here in March and it was wonderful! Seeing the goats up close is so much fun; they're extremely friendly and curious. They saunter right up and nuzzle you. After petting the goats, we got to taste a variety of delicious cheeses (I ended up getting way more than I thought I would! I loved the moonstone and the one with the wine rind.) Our tour guide, Kristen, was super knowledgeable, friendly and entertaining. This place is a lot of fun for anybody that loves goats or cheese!"
Patrick Landis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stepladder Ranch and Creamery is located in Cambria, California. It's a scenic drive along the Central Coast. Many visitors combine a trip here with visits to Hearst Castle or the wineries of Paso Robles. Check your GPS for the most direct route, as rural roads can be winding.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a little before your scheduled tour time to find a spot and get settled.
While you can visit the creamery shop to purchase cheese, the full experience, including interacting with the goats and learning about the process, is best enjoyed through their guided tours. Booking a tour is highly recommended.
From San Luis Obispo, take US-101 North towards Paso Robles, then transition to CA-46 West towards Cambria. The drive is approximately 45-60 minutes. Alternatively, you can take scenic Highway 1 North from San Luis Obispo, which takes longer but offers stunning coastal views.
Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. Driving your own vehicle or using a ride-sharing service (though availability may vary) is the most practical way to reach Stepladder Ranch and Creamery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Stepladder Ranch and Creamery website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Booking in advance is strongly advised as tours can sell out.
Tickets for the tours are primarily available for purchase through the official Stepladder Ranch and Creamery website. It's recommended to book online well in advance, especially for weekend tours or group visits.
Tours typically include an educational walk through the ranch and creamery, opportunities to interact with the goats, and a guided cheese tasting session featuring their award-winning cheeses.
Operating hours, especially for tours and the creamery shop, can vary seasonally. It's essential to check their official website for the most current hours of operation and tour schedules before planning your visit.
Generally, pets are not allowed on the ranch tours for the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. Please check their specific pet policy on their website or contact them directly if you have questions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most beloved aspect is the interaction with the incredibly friendly and affectionate goats. Visitors also rave about the delicious cheese tasting and the knowledgeable, kind tour guides. +1
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as you'll be walking on a ranch. Layers are recommended as coastal weather can change. Sunscreen and a hat are also good ideas. :athletic_shoe:
Yes, restroom facilities are available for visitors. It's always a good idea to use them upon arrival or before your tour begins.
Absolutely! Children often love the opportunity to pet and interact with the goats. It's a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Tours usually last around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing ample time for the ranch walk, goat interaction, and the cheese tasting.
🍽️ 🧀 Food & Dining
Yes, the creamery shop offers a wide selection of their award-winning goat and cow milk cheeses for purchase. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or treats.
They produce a variety of small-batch, artisan cheeses from both goat and cow milk. Popular varieties include brie-style cheeses, gouda, and cheeses with unique rinds or flavorings.
While cheese is the main focus, they sometimes offer other local products like avocado honey or dips. It's best to check their current offerings at the creamery shop.
Picnic facilities are generally not a primary feature. The focus is on the tour and tasting experience. However, you can purchase cheese to enjoy later.
Visitors often rave about the Moonstone cheese and any varieties with wine rinds. The brie-style and sheep gouda are also frequently mentioned as delicious choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! Capture the adorable goats, the scenic ranch, and your delicious cheese finds.
The most popular photo ops are with the friendly goats, the picturesque ranch landscape, and of course, your beautifully arranged cheese boards featuring their products.
For professional shoots, it's always best to contact Stepladder Ranch and Creamery directly to inquire about their policies and any potential fees.
While generally permitted, be mindful of other guests and the tour guide's instructions. Avoid flash photography directly in the animals' faces.
Popular hashtags include #StepladderCreamery, #GoatCheese, #FarmTour, #CentralCoastCalifornia, #CambriaCA, and #ArtisanCheese.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to book tours in advance, especially for larger groups. Ensure children wear closed-toe shoes as they'll be walking around the ranch. The cheese tasting is also a hit, offering a chance for everyone to try delicious local flavors.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
The artisan cheeses produced here are ideal for pairing with local wines. Consider purchasing a selection of their goat and cow milk cheeses to enjoy with your favorite varietals, either at a winery or back at your accommodation. It’s a quintessential Central Coast experience.
+1🧀 Cheese Connoisseurs
Pay close attention during the tour to understand the cheesemaking process and the factors that contribute to the distinct profiles of each cheese. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek recommendations for your favorite flavor profiles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Farmstead Cheesemaking
Visitors on tours get a fascinating glimpse into this process. You'll learn about the milking procedures and see where the milk is transformed into delicious cheeses. This transparency offers a deeper appreciation for the craft and the effort that goes into each wheel of cheese. It's an experience that connects you directly to the source of your food.
This farm-to-table philosophy not only ensures the freshness and quality of their dairy products but also highlights their commitment to animal welfare. The happy, well-cared-for goats are a testament to their ethical farming practices, making the experience even more rewarding for visitors.
An Unforgettable Goat Encounter
This is particularly true during certain times of the year when many of the goats are pregnant, making them even more cuddly and receptive to attention. The tour guides, like Kristen, are adept at facilitating these interactions, ensuring everyone has a chance to connect with the herd. It's a heartwarming experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Beyond the cuddles, learning about the goats' daily lives, their personalities, and their role in the creamery's success adds another layer of enjoyment. It’s a chance to see happy animals thriving in a well-managed environment, which is a joy in itself.
Pairing Stepladder Cheeses with Local Flavors
These cheeses are perfect for elevating any charcuterie board or meal. For instance, their brie-style cheese or sheep gouda can be a star attraction. Many visitors enjoy pairing their purchases with local wines from the nearby Paso Robles wine region, creating a quintessential Central Coast experience.
+1Don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations on how to best enjoy each cheese. They can offer insights into ideal pairings, whether it's with fruits, nuts, crackers, or specific wines, ensuring you get the most out of your delicious Stepladder cheese.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit