In summer, water rules, and Amador County offers many options, from Camanche Reservoir in the foothills to beautiful Silver Lake in the Eldorado National Forest near Carson Pass. If you’re a camper, fisher-person, hiker or boater, put these lakes on your summer “must-do” list and reserve a campsite early if staying over a weekend.
On Silver Lake, Plasse’s Resort is an old-fashioned, dog-friendly retreat for tent, RV and horse campers. Founded in 1853, it’s located along the old Kit Carson Immigrant Trail and is recognized as one of the oldest campgrounds in the country. While Bella might enjoy a quick dip, most humans find the water at 7,200 feet a bit too chilly for prolonged swimming. Fishing and hiking opportunities abound, however, and on most trails, you can shed that irksome leash and let Bella trot and sniff at her own pace.
Not into hiking or camping? You’ll get a feel for rural hospitality and scenic charm in the Shenandoah Valley wine country around the town of Plymouth on Highway 49. At least a dozen wineries welcome dogs visiting with their people, and the scenery is as refreshing as the full-bodied zins that are a specialty of the region. Several hotels offer dog-friendly lodging in Jackson, Sutter Creek, Plymouth and vicinity. And if you need doggie day care or boarding (perhaps while visiting Jackson Rancheria Casino), Gold Country Pet Resort and Training Center will show your pup such a good time she may not want to come home.
