Gracie and her family have been coming to this cozy cabin at Camp Layman every year since her rescue in 2004. She swims, goes on hikes, meets other dogs and people. The owners of Camp Layman even provide a doggy blanket to snuggle up on at the end of a hard day of trail sniffing and squirrel chasing.
Just a short walk from swimming and fishing in the beautiful Feather River, these rustic cabins provide a quiet, relaxing break from the city. Originally constructed in the 1920s, Camp Layman features 13 cabins of various sizes and all are equipped with bathrooms and kitchenettes. The cabins are spread out enough to give each family some privacy, and the surrounding forest creates a natural buffer that makes you feel truly away from it all.
Dogs are welcome throughout the property, and the camp’s laid-back atmosphere means your pup can settle into vacation mode right alongside you. The Feather River is close enough to walk to from any cabin, and most dogs head straight for the water the moment they catch its scent. The river is shallow and gentle in summer, with sandy banks and calm pools that are perfect for dogs who love to wade and splash. Stronger swimmers can venture into the deeper channels, but keep an eye on current after snowmelt.
The surrounding area offers plenty of trails for hiking with your dog. The Plumas-Eureka State Park trails are just a short drive away, offering forested paths with moderate elevation changes and wonderful mountain views. Closer to camp, the river trail follows the water’s edge and is flat enough for dogs of any age or fitness level. In the evenings, many families gather around their cabin’s outdoor area while their dogs play together — it’s the kind of low-key socializing that both dogs and their people seem to enjoy most.
This wonderful spot is in the Sierra near Graeagle, California. Gracie has now shown the ropes to her new partner Billie (a Springer Spaniel) and they both recommend Camp Layman to all dogs and their people.
The camp is 68 miles north of Lake Tahoe, and 62 miles west of Reno on Highway 70. Camp Layman is close to the small Northern California towns of Blairsden, Graeagle, Portola, and Quincy. Stock up on groceries in one of these towns before settling in, as the camp’s remote location is part of its charm — but it also means the nearest store is a short drive away.
