Lakes and Rivers Blog
2025 award-winning dog-friendly hotels
Ready to sniff out 2026's best adventures? Our loyal pack of discerning DogTrekkers wants the inside scoop on where to stay with your four-legged copilots.
Exceptional experiences in Yosemite
Yosemite National Park, with its million-year-old granite monoliths, demands superlatives. Year after year, our readers crown it a favorite destination, while Travel + Leisure recently
Boutique digs in Big Bear
Big Bear Lake earned serious bragging rights in 2025: USA Today crowned it the #1 10Best Lake in the U.S. and #3 Best Lake for
Plan your perfect Sacramento daycation
For best-in-show fun, it’s hard to top California’s sunny capital city. Sacramento is a pup-culture powerhouse with trails, wineries, breweries and farm-to-table restaurants framed by
Best Southern California doggie swim spots
From surf-ready shore break to calm lakes, Southern California is packed with places where dogs can cool off. Here are some of the best “doggie
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
Yucaipa Regional Park: A dog-friendly lake day in the Inland Empire
Wide-open lawns and easy lakeside walking Yucaipa Regional Park is one of the most relaxed, welcoming outdoor spaces for dogs in the Inland Empire. Set
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
Paw-some road trips from Sacramento
Sacramento’s big backyard offers more adventures like chasing waterfalls in Placer County, tracing old mining trails near the American River, or wine tasting in the
Sacramento DIY tasting tours with an artsy twist
With a thriving craft beer scene and easy access to top wine producers, Sacramento is a tasting tour hotspot.
The ulti-mutt in farm-fresh dining in Sacramento
Sacramento’s status as “America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital” comes from its proximity to more than 1.5 million acres of farmland that support some 160 crops. Nearly area
As Big Bear Lake warms up in 2026, the events begin
Lights, camera, wag! This March, Big Bear Lake takes center stage with the debut of the reimagined Big Bear Film Festival, March 25–31, 2026. The
Autumn-Friendly Things to Do with Your Pets in Yosemite Mariposa County
The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled autumn vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well. The stunning scenery and
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,
Bishop: Small town, big backyard
Bishop, the “Small Town with a Big Backyard,” is a high-desert hub with unbeatable access to the Eastern Sierra.
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
Dog-friendly dining on a riverfront patio
In Northern California, late summer means sun-soaked skies and warm evenings ideal for outdoor dining, and Noyo Harbor Inn’s HarborView Bistro & Bar feels especially
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
Eight dog‑friendly stays between Mendocino and the Oregon border
The redwood belt between Mendocino and the Oregon line stays cool when the Central Valley bakes. It also offers a surprising number of small lodges
8 dog-friendly lakes near Southern California to beat the heat
When Southern California’s valleys start to bake under the late-summer sun, savvy dog lovers head for higher ground or cooler coasts. Fortunately, several picturesque lakes
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
Paw-some events for the dog days of summer
With summer in full swing, pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California. Lucky dogs can join their people for incredible winery events, block parties, baseball
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
California’s best secret doggie swim spots
Discover California's hidden gems where your furry friend can splash and play away from the crowds! From the serene waters of Russian River Secret Cove
Wag again at Little River Inn
When’s the last time you overnighted at Little River Inn? This Mendocino County classic sometimes flies under the radar, but
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
A seaside paradise for pups and people
Little River Inn is perfectly positioned between Mendocino’s breathtaking redwoods and the wildly beautiful Pacific coast. Set 12 miles south
Dip into Tahoe’s lake lifestyle
Legendary Lake Tahoe tops travelers’ must-see lists all year round, but summers here feel extra special. Pups can play at beaches and community dog parks
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.
Five things you and your dog didn’t know about Yosemite and Mariposa County
Think you know Yosemite? Even seasoned visitors may be surprised by how welcoming Yosemite and Mariposa County can be for travelers with dogs. While the
Hit the road for Sacramento, the ultimate dog-friendly basecamp
Sacramento’s central location and welcoming vibes make it a perfect launchpad for Northern California adventures. Stroll the city’s riverfront, wander
High Sierra escapes from Sacramento
From downtown Sacramento, you can reach fresh mountain air within about two hours. Pups are welcome at many of the
Wild Blue canine camp is calling!
Daydreaming about where travel will take you in 2025? Why not opt to spend quality time with your pups at a Wild Blue Dogs weeklong
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
Yosemite Mariposa County
Yosemite Mariposa County is a premier travel destination for all adventurers, no matter how many legs they have. Here's a 4-day itinerary to explore.
Yosemite Mariposa County
The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well.
Lake Skinner
Lake Skinner, located in Riverside County, California, is a quiet dog-friendly destination for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.
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
On & off-leash adventures
It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the
Making memories on the Mendocino coast
With soaking tubs, waterfront lawns and Pacific-view balconies, the Little River Inn invites guests to relax and recharge. On-property fun
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
Three amazing dog-friendly road trips in California
California's diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for road trip adventures, especially for those traveling with their dogs. Here are three meticulously planned dog-friendly road trips:
Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: Why your dog will thank you
Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe is a dream for outdoor lovers and their four-legged friends. With pristine waters, majestic peaks, and numerous trails, it's perfect for dog-friendly
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
Explore Sacramento and folsom
Buddy jumped 26 feet at Splash Dogs in Folsom No, gold wasn’t found in Sacramento or Folsom. But both cities played huge roles in the
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
Find fall fun with your dog on the shores of South Lake Tahoe
Fall is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe, thanks to fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and, of course, that dazzling blue water. FALL CAMP Wild
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
Winter-friendly things to do with your pets in Yosemite Mariposa
The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well. The stunning scenery and outdoor
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.
Dog-friendlyFolsom
Johnny Cash may have put Folsom on America's mental map. but visitors don't sing the blues once they experience the vitality of this historic little city at
Get your dog-friendly kicks on route 395 in the eastern sierra
Looking for a road trip that will have your dog wagging her tail the whole way? Free up four or more days for a leisurely
Whiskeytown calls
Haven’t figured out how to use those unused vacation days? We have just the perfect destination. Redding, the last major city on Interstate 5 as
Wilderness hiking in Whiskeytown NRA
If your travel plans have you traveling north this year (or if you haven’t figured out how to use those unused vacay days), we have
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