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Can 17 year olds go to Knotts alone?

Children/Teens - Notice to Parents & Guardians In addition to our chaperone policy, we strongly recommend that minors (under 18) be accompanied by an adult. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors.



Yes, a 17-year-old can technically go to Knott's Berry Farm alone, but they are subject to the park's Chaperone Policy, which is strictly enforced in 2026. Under the standard policy, any guest aged 15 or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old. Since a 17-year-old is older than 15, they do not require a chaperone for general admission during the day. However, they must carry a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) to prove their age to security at the gate. If they cannot verify their age, they may be denied entry without a chaperone. For special events like Knott's Scary Farm, the rules sometimes shift to require chaperones for everyone under 18; in 2026, it is vital to check the specific "Event Policy" on the Knott's app, as the park reserves the right to implement a mandatory chaperone requirement for all minors during high-security evening events or holiday periods.

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Guests ages 15 years old or younger who are found inside the park unaccompanied by a chaperone will be subject to ejection. This chaperone requirement applies to all Knott's Berry Farm, Knott's Scary Farm and Soak City Waterpark ticket and season passholders.

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Children/Teens - Notice to Parents & Guardians In addition to our chaperone policy, we strongly recommend that minors (under 18) be accompanied by an adult. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors.

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For the convenience of all our guests, smoking of any kind, including vapor and e-cigarettes, is only permitted in the designated smoking area near the park's main entrance.

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Knott's Berry Farm's chaperone policy goes into effect after multiple teen fights. Effective Friday all guests 17 years and younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21-years-old.

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Chaperones are defined as anyone over 21 years old and minors are anyone under 17 years old. For Knott's Scary Farm only, any chaperone who accompanies five paid minors will receive a complimentary park ticket, valid only on the same night of visit.

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Is there a dress code? Costumes, masks and face painting are not allowed to ensure that there is no confusion between the Knott's Scary Farm monster actors and guests.

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One (1) chaperone may accompany no more than ten (10) guests ages 15 or younger per day. In addition, the chaperone must accompany their party during entry, remain inside the park during their visit, and be available by phone throughout their stay.

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As part of that commitment, we are implementing a chaperone policy beginning Saturday, April 22, 2023. Under this policy, all guests ages 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old in order to be admitted to or remain in the park after 4:00 p.m. local time to close.

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After wandering through the classic swinging saloon doors, mosey on up to the counter where the barkeep can fix you a drink. Adults can find alcoholic beverages including beer and wine, while younger cowpokes may fancy a sarsaparilla or boysenberry punch. Be sure to ask your bartender about any “signature” drinks!

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Pony Express is the perfect intermediate coaster designed for families to enjoy together without any inversions or large drops.

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Knott's Scary Farm is not recommended for children under 13. All guests, regardless of age, need to have their own paid admission ticket.

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No outside food items are allowed to be brought inside Knott's Theme Park (or Soak City water parks). Please note that all backpacks, purses and bags will be inspected upon entrance at the Main Gate. Small, insulated coolers, no larger than 1'x1'x1' and filled only with water are allowed.

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One of our professional photographers will take your picture at the front gate before you enjoy an entire day of fun in the park. Get your picture taken with your favorite characters at the Peanuts Meet & Greet!

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