Canoeing Rafting Boats Blog
Lake Tahoe Summer Fun
Lake Tahoe in summer gives you a gift: long daylight, cool nights, and enough shoreline and trail to keep a dog happy for a week.
Stanford Inn Resort & Farm
Dynamic pricing always provides substantial seasonal savings. Also, enjoy the DogTrekker Special, available in early 2026 at the Stanford Inn.
This season, we share gratitude (and getaways for you!)
Team DogTrekker has lots to be thankful for. This year, loyal readers like you supported the work of California shelter and rescue organizations. You attended
Putah Canyon Campground: Dog-friendly camping on Lake Berryessa
Waterfront campsites and mellow lakeshore exploring Putah Canyon Campground on Lake Berryessa’s quieter west side offers a low-key, scenic base for a dog-friendly trip. If
The best dog-friendly hotels in Lake Tahoe
Here are some of the best dog-friendly places including hotels and lodges to stay around Lake Tahoe, whether you’re drawn to the lively South Shore
Mindful hospitality with a pet-centric pedigree
In an era where screens, QR codes and contactless check-ins are increasingly common, the Stanford Inn team practices more mindful hospitality. This family-run resort has
Introducing the DogTrekker Southern California Portal
Sunshine, surf, mountains and deserts, Southern California is a dog lover’s dream. DogTrekker.com’s brand-new SoCal Portal pulls it all together, showcasing the region’s best places to stay,
DogTrekker® 15th Anniversary
DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind – whether at home, while traveling, or in shelters. Since June 2011,
Big Bear Lake: Mountain playtime for you and your pup
Big Bear Lake is a tail-wagging alpine getaway just a couple of hours from many SoCal cities.
Wagging tails and water play in Big Bear Lake
As the crowds thin, the air cools and the leaves turn, in the fall Big Bear Lake becomes a tranquil playground for dogs and their
Fall trails and starry skies in Big Bear Lake
Autumn in Big Bear Lake means crisp mountain air, golden aspens and trails ablaze with fall color—making it the perfect season to hit the trails
Attention all water dogs: It’s splash season
Summer is in full swing, which means it's time to hit the water. During California's sun-drenched splash season, water dogs and families seek out seaside
Leash up and dive in: A dog lover’s guide to California’s state parks and lakes
If your four-legged friend perks up at the mention of trails, lakes and scenic adventures, California’s state parks are calling. From refreshing lakeside romps to
California’s top tail-wagging destinations: Adventure awaits
Traveling with my dog has always transformed ordinary trips into unforgettable adventures. California, with its wealth of scenic beauty and dog-loving communities, offers some of
Paws-itively perfect resort packages
In majestic Mendocino County, lucky dogs from the Little River Inn can accompany their people on sea cave kayaking tours
Plan a summer reset in the Shasta Cascade Region
Turn travel dreams into real itineraries with DogTrekker.com. Your ultimate go-to guide for dog-friendly California adventure sparks inspiration while spotlighting destinations like the Shasta Cascade
Discover dog-friendly Bishop: Small Town, Big Backyard
Greetings from Bishop, California! Perched at 4,000 feet in the high desert, Bishop is your ideal gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
Boat rides and big views near Bishop
For small-town friendliness and a big, wildly beautiful backyard, base yourself in Bishop. This Eastern Sierra community is a spectacular starting
Paddle with pups in magical Mendocino
When temperatures get toasty across California’s inland valleys, the majestic Mendocino coast presents a cooler travel option. Enjoy blue skies
Go off leash with Russian River Adventures
Russian River Adventures celebrates its silver anniversary in 2025, marking 25 years of paddling excursions that include popular pup-friendly options.
The mountains are barking from Big Bear Lake
The snow is melting and spring is blooming in beautiful Big Bear Lake! There’s nothing quite like the fresh alpine air
Save $150 – Early bird special for Fall Wild Blue camp
Looking for an unforgettable experience with your pup? Wild Blue Dog Camp is the only nonprofit week-long dog camp in the country. This fall, enjoy
2024 Go California Photo Contest winners
Hundreds of you entered DogTrekker’s 2024 Go California Photo Contest, and thousands voted for images of four-legged travel influencers enjoying lakes, beaches, parks and trails
The Stanford Inn: Eco-minded, perfect for pups
The Mendocino coast is spectacular at any time of year, but golden light and salty sea breezes make late summer especially enchanting. Base yourself at
Where to stay and play in Big Bear this fall
Big Bear Lake sparkles as summer transitions to autumn and the leaves start turning yellow, orange and red. Warm, sun-soaked days are refreshed with cooler
Wild Blue Dogs camp along Lake Tahoe? You lucky dog.
Remember the magic of sleepaway camp? Now imagine a similar adventure, but for adults – with your pup by your side! That dream is real
Pacific days and pup-tastic nights at the Little River Inn
Rich history meets modern charm at the Little River Inn, a family-owned, dog-friendly jewel that’s been a Mendocino County standout for more than 80 years.
Big Bear Lake: A cool canine retreat
Big Bear Lake, a hidden gem in the San Bernardino Mountains, is a respite for dog lovers seeking a cool alternative from the heat of
Discover dog-friendly Oakland: A canine paradise
Oakland is a fantastic place to visit or live with your dog. It’s sunny when San Francisco is foggy, and it’s very dog-friendly when some
Dog-friendly lakes not named “Tahoe”
On a sun-drenched summer afternoon, few activities feel better than splashing in a cool lake – and that goes for both pups
Six water safety tips to protect your dog
Plenty of dog breeds love swimming, splashing and playing fetch on the beach, especially on hot summer afternoons. By following
Make a splash on Shasta Lake
Three rivers feed Shasta Lake, a recreational treasure that doubles as California’s largest reservoir. Interstate 5 crosses the 30,000-acre body of
Water fun and wineries in Lake County
Fresh air, bright skies and pretty scenery distinguish Lake County. Tucked about two hours north of San Francisco, it’s anchored
Yosemite and Mariposa County: Awesome dog-friendly guide
Mariposa County, California, is a fantastic destination for dog lovers, especially when visiting Yosemite. Here are some dog-friendly activities and places to explore that promise
Redding: The perfect pit stop for you and your pooch
So, you're plotting a getaway to Northern California's most stunning landscapes and need a place to crash that's as dog-friendly as it is delightful? Look
Big Bear Lake, The ultimate dog-friendly destination year-round
Big Bear Lake, CA, in the San Bernardino Mountains, is a haven for dog lovers looking for a getaway in any season. Whether you’re into
Top Mendocino picks for waves and wine
Pristine Pacific coastline. Majestic redwoods. River routes fit for exploring, Mendocino County is magic for two- and four-legged travelers.
Exploring dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: An adventurer’s guide
Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: The ultimate 2025 guide for you and your pup Lake Tahoe’s clear, sapphire waters and forested peaks lure outdoor lovers—and dog owners
All American River
Zapata at River Bend Park. Photo: Trevino (CC) A paddle trip down the six-mile stretch of the Lower American River between the Sunrise Bridge off
Spring safety tips for dog owners
Understanding and managing risks for a safe outdoor experience When venturing out with your dog during spring, it's important to be proactive about various risks
Live the good life in South Lake Tahoe
Wild Blue Dogs holds activities on a fenced, 33-acre property on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. Camp-goers can access
Make a big splash
It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the
Wild Blue Dogs summer camp early bird ends March 15
As the country’s only nonprofit dog camp, Wild Blue Dogs at South Lake Tahoe offers grants for pet cancer treatments and supports cancer research. Your
Have a dog-gone good time at Folsom Lake
While the rules for four-legged visitors vary across California’s state parks, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) offers a very pup-friendly experience.
Hit reset in the sunny Shasta Cascade region
Turn travel dreams into real itineraries with the all-new DogTrekker.com. Your ultimate go-to guide for dog-friendly California adventure sparks inspiration while spotlighting destinations like the
Ruff-ing it in Shasta County
The community of Redding anchors Shasta County, and it's the gateway to recreational opportunities across the Shasta Cascade region. Set
Lassen County: Off-leash adventures with volcano views
Perhaps best known for Lassen Volcanic National Park's extraordinary landscapes, Lassen County is also packed with dog-friendly recreation, accommodations and events. This outdoor wonderland bordering
Butte County: Nature and culture for pups and their people
The sun sparkles across orchards, farm fields, riverfront parks and brewery patios throughout Butte County. Set in central California, at the southern end of the
Tehama County: Fresh fun in the heart of California
Farm fields, orchards and vineyards thrive in the heart of Tehama County, 90 miles north of Sacramento.
Trinity County: Remote, relaxing and ruggedly beautiful
Dog-friendly Trinity County extends along the western edge of the Shasta Cascade region, well separated from busy Interstate 5.
Siskiyou County: Where dogs are a way of life
Dazzling waterfalls and wide-open wilderness define pup-friendly Siskiyou County, which borders Oregon in the Shasta Cascade region’s northwestern corner.
Shasta County: Northern California’s hub for adventure
Shasta County is at the center of the eight-county Shasta Cascade region, a vast natural playground with three mountain ranges, seven national forests, a national
Dog-gone good lake adventures
Generations of families and four-legged friends have passed unforgettable afternoons atop Lake Tahoe. Maya, DogTrekker’s director of barketing, prefers cruising on open-bow powerboats from Tahoe
Wellness meets tail-waggin’ fun at the Stanford Inn
Few places match Mendocino’s natural beauty. The Stanford Inn stretches along 10 coastal acres here, framed by USDA-certified organic gardens, towering trees and Pacific Ocean
Paddle, pedal and play with your pup
Check-in time at the Stanford Inn is a joyous moment. Pups and their people linger in the lobby, sharing stories about their favorite outdoor adventures.
Family fun with a pup-friendly pedigree
The Stanford Inn is a family-friendly jewel with plenty of four-paw delights – think hiking trails, a heated saltwater pool, scavenger hunts, canoes that accommodate
Majestic, dog-friendly California mountain towns
Let’s admit it. DogTrekkers are spoiled here in sun-kissed California. We escape to places where palm trees sway, and waves crash.
Your dog deserves a vacation too!
The Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged friends. They offer two fabulous packages: the Water Dog Sea Cave
Unleash the fun: Book now for Lake Tahoe’s best-in-show dog camp
Attention all dog lovers! Don't miss out on the tail-waggin' good time at Wild Blue Dogs' fall camp experiences in Lake Tahoe.
The splashy side of Placer County
Majestic mountains and Gold Rush heritage set Placer County apart. You’ll also find golden opportunities for fun on the water.
Placer County promises dog-friendly trails, thrills and tasty surprises
Welcome to Placer County, a 1,400-square-mile playground where dog-friendly fun is always in season. From cosmopolitan Roseville
Embrace the charm of coastal Mendocino: A pawsitively perfect spring coastal getaway with your dog
A journey along the Mendocino County Coast is a feast for the senses, where the rugged beauty of the Pacific Ocean
Dog-approved adventures in California’s North Coast Region
Our pups have discerning tastes: good sleeps, good eats and plenty of play. Just north of San Francisco, the ‘North of Ordinary’ counties of California
Wags and wine in Lake County
Lake County is known for its crystal clear lakes and explorable wineries. In fact, they have the most dog-friendly wine country in the U.S. with
An unforgettable ride in Mendocino county
Mendocino County is known for its breathtaking beaches, wineries and even some redwood forests. Hop aboard a historic train with your pup. This adventure takes
Get outdoors with your California pup today!
Let's get out there and enjoy the fresh air with our furry best friends! Exploring the great outdoors is an amazing experience that both people
Best dog-friendly lakes in California
Looking for a great place to take your furry friend for a swim? Look no further! California is home to many beautiful lakes that are
Action packed fun: Play like a local in Bass Lake, CA (video)
"Play Like A Local" all seasons on beautiful Bass Lake. Check out how the locals do it. Boat it, hike it or bike it, there
Dog days of summer (video)
The adventures of our friends Lily and Chloe rafting on the Russian River.
Paddleboard with your dog at Bass Lake (video)
Bass Lake in Madera County, 35 miles from the front gate of Yosemite, is a great place to paddleboard with your dog. Play like a
Water Dog Sea Cave & River Dog packages
Your dog deserves a vacation too! The Little River Inn is rolling out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged companions with their dog kayaking packages.
First time paws-ing in Redding?
If you’re new to Redding and the eight-county UpState CA region, start at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center that’s just down the road in Anderson. Open daily and packed
Choose Redding for new dog-friendly scenery, experiences
Want to make tracks somewhere new with your pup? Upstate California holds many tail-wagging surprises. The city of Redding is the gateway to this big,
Become a water dog in Mendo County
Ah, Mendocino! This Northern California county’s beautiful stretch of coastline is a perfect place to retreat to in summertime, especially when the Central Valley is
Fall for these dog-friendly waterfalls
Yes, we had a dry January, but the big storms in late December filled lakes and streams and created a hefty Sierra snowpack. The payoff:
Don’t pass on Pasadena with your dog
If you can just get off of those L.A. freeways (and you can!) a great place to gulp some fresh air and take in some
Santa Barbara’s waterfall surprise
How good are you and your dog at rock-hopping and scrambling? You’ll need to put those skills to work on the popular 7 Falls Trail
Moving water in Marin
It’s not the easiest waterfall hike in Marin County, but Cataract Falls, on the north flank of Mount Tamalpais, is easily the Bay Area’s most
Paddle with your pup in Mendocino County
Coastal Mendocino County is stitched to rivers and ocean, but visitors aren’t restricted to just looking at the water.
If it’s summer, it’s splash time with your dog!
Thousands of splash spots in California await people and pups eager to get wet in the great outdoors.
Big river beckons at Catch a Canoe
There’s something magical about the Big River estuary near Mendocino—and something ingenious about the “canine cruiser” that transports two- and four-legged visitors down the calm
Water Dog package at the Little River Inn
The Little River Inn brings back its very popular Water Dog package at the Little River Inn Resort & Spa, perched on a bluff overlooking the
Cooper loved to travel
In his ten years, this Lab/border collie/cattle dog mix traveled to seven states, but most of all he loved going anywhere DogTrekker recommended.
Open air dog-friendly activities perfect for social distancing
By now, we all know the drill: wash your hands, cover your face in public, maintain six feet of “social distancing” between yourself and anyone
Harley the waterdog
I just lost Harley my yellow lab on January 5 at nine years young. She loved Dillon Beach, going to the snow and swimming anywhere
Go north, DogTrekkers, go north!
A month from now, the epic waterfalls of the Shasta-Cascade region in Northern California will be gushing in spectacular fashion. That said, the cascades on
Pant, paddle, pedal with your pup
There’s something magical about the Big River estuary alongside the Stanford Inn, and something ingenious about the “canine cruiser” that transports two-and four-legged visitors downstream
Vet Buzz: Keeping the golden years golden
By Dr. Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital Everyone wants to grow old gracefully, including your dog. Your dog ages in much the same
Clear your head at Clear Lake
Clear Lake in Lake County is a big puddle of blue on the map about 75 miles north of Santa Rosa. For DogTrekkers, it and
River cruisin’ with your canine
Many say that coastal Mendocino County is not so much a place as a state of mind. And for DogTrekkers, full immersion wouldn’t be complete
Lake county hideaway
“Agritourism”—an agriculturally based operation or activity that brings visitors to a farm or ranch—is as old as winemaking in California, yet there aren’t many places
Summer’s last splash: gotta lake it!
When Northern Californians mention “The Lake,” you know they’re talking Tahoe. September is “tweener” season at Big Blue, a time when locals breathe deep, tourism
Water safety guidelines
By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. When the whole family is out enjoying water activities,
Hop on a houseboat with your pup
Water, sun, stars, memories. A houseboating vacation provides them all, plus a lot of novelty for first-timers. While Shasta Lake is justly known as the
If everybody had a surf dog…
You’re sure to have a Beach Boys sound track playing in your head as you and your pup cavort on aptly named Dog Beach, the
Moseying on Mendocino waterways
There’s something magical about the Big River estuary near Mendocino—and something ingenious about the “canine cruiser” that transports two- and four-legged visitors down the calm
Say anchors aweigh on Shasta Lake
If ever there were a summer to go house-boating, this is it! Shasta Lake—house-boating capital of California and maybe the world—is as full of water
Six water safety tips
By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM, MS of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. There is no better exercise for your dog’s health than swimming. But before you
Every walk in Surf City is special
The Dog Beach here in Surf City has become famous throughout Southern California. More than a mile of undeveloped beach along one of the prettiest
Paradise for water dogs
DogTrekker.com reader Jan N. alerted us to a secluded public dog-friendly beach that she and her dog Angel discovered on the way home from a
Water safety and your dog
Some dogs love swimming and splashing. Labs, poodles, Brittanys and other hunting breeds seem born with an instinct to seek out places to get wet.
Houseboating nuts and bolts
Think of a houseboat as a slow-moving RV that takes a long time to turn, and you get an idea of what piloting one is
Go with the rivers’ flow
Your dog may not be able to paddle her own canoe, but you’ll have a blast paddling for her with an assist from an outfitter
More wet ways to play
Stand-Up Paddleboarding, SUP for short, is an emerging sport with Hawaiian heritage that’s caught on big all up and down California. The newest craze: teaching
Kayla at the Waterfront Hotel
Kayla at the Waterfront Hotel Kayla decided to attend Jack London Square's Boo! Bark, Brews & Bites Halloween party and spent the night at the
Chasing surf with your dog in Santa Cruz County
Photo credit: lostintheredwoods (CC) Santa Cruz County’s curvy coastline is studded with some 29 miles of beaches providing lots of options for DogTrekkers. Fifteen strands
Catalina adventure
Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California is a favorite day-trip and weekend destination, and many travelers are surprised to discover that the Catalina
Sup with your pup
Stand-Up Paddle-boarding has caught on big-time with canine passengers as well as the people who do the paddling. Most dogs love to ride along, although
Paddling Mendocino county rivers
Have you ever longed to kayak on a beautiful river but not been able to because you have your dog along? Come to Mendocino County,
Diggin’ San Diego with your dog
In San Diego, it’s a dog’s life when it comes to hiking. Daisy can let loose on the beach or enjoy a quick, natural escape
Meandering the mendo coast with your dog
While you can drive from one end of Mendocino County to the other in a morning or afternoon (it’s 102 winding miles from Leggett to Gualala
Kayla in Surf City
DogTrekker.com's Chief Operating Dog, Director of Barketing and Research Lab, Kayla, recently visited Huntington Beach (aka Surf City, USA) and is still barking about it.
Water fun
When we asked our readers about their favorite places to share with their senior dogs, The Beach was at the top of the list, and
Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe beaches: Your ultimate summer guide
Summer is in full swing and Lake Tahoe is one of the top DogTrekker destinations. So we want to share some of the places to take
Russian River Adventures
Have a dog who loves water? Why not let her serve as first mate in a dog-friendly canoe? Russian River Adventures, Sonoma County's premiere dog-passionate
Surf dogs
Surf’s up in Southern California—and now, during the summer vacation season, you and your pup can get your smiles on watching surf dogs ride the
Surf’s up!
Win our latest DogCation™ at the Surf & Sand Lodge and you and your pup will get up close and personal with nature in her
Catch a ride on a canine cruiser
A summertime trip up the Mendocino County coast isn’t complete without a paddle excursion along the beautiful Big River estuary. And now there’s a novel new
Rollin’ on a river with your dog
How many times have you skipped an otherwise great activity because Spot couldn’t come along? Thanks to a handful of savvy Northern California outfitters, you
Dip into the blue
Of course you can take your dog swimming in Lake Tahoe! True, dogs aren't welcome everywhere, but that's not to say that canine-friendly splash spots
Surf and woof
Our suggestion for a February outing with your Valentine and canine sidekick is Point Reyes National Seashore.
Dog-friendly Stanford Inn, Mendocino
One of Mendocino's favorite dog-friendly inns is the Stanford Inn by the Sea. Featured in Oprah Magazine and more than 139 other publications, as well
Float your boat
For water fun at Tahoe, join the animated crowds of summer vacationers who rent rafts in Tahoe City
Dog paddle safety
Most dogs love swimming and splashing. Labs and other retrievers seem born with an instinct to seek out places to get wet. But other dogs
Lake del valle: paradise for water dogs
One of the few places you and your dog can go for a sail. And fish! You'll want to spend the day, the night, or
South yuba river independence trail: a dog-friendly adventure
Exploring the wooden flumes The South Yuba River Independence Trail in Nevada County is a delightful place to visit with your dog. The trail features
Russian with rover
With the crowds gone and only a few weeks left before the rainy season sets in, the romantic Russian River region beckons.