Dog-friendly Lakes And Rivers

Water fun and wineries in Lake County

A Golden Retriever stands in the shallow water beside a lakeside dock in Lake County. The dog's wet fur glistens under the sunlight. In the background, a serene lake is framed by mountainous terrain, with a clear blue sky overhead.

North checks out Clear Lake at sunrise. Photo by Jennifer Waicukauski.

Fresh air, bright skies and pretty scenery distinguish Lake County. Tucked about two hours north of San Francisco, it’s anchored Read more.

2024 Go California Photo Contest winners

Two Pomeranians waving in front of Yosemite. Photo by Ivy Chen.

Best of Show Winner: Biscuit & Maddie waving from Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park. Photo by Ivy Chen.

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 across the Golden State. This annual competition spotlights the very good boys and girls who inspire us all to get out and explore. And as 2024 winds down, it’s the perfect time to start dreaming about next year’s ad Read more.

Yosemite Mariposa County

A white dog, mouth open and likely panting, stands on a ledge in Mariposa County. Behind it are towering rocky cliffs and a green valley dotted with pine trees. The sky is partly cloudy. The dog sports a colorful harness.

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. Read more.

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. Read more.

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 evenings, when inky night skies beckon stargazers. Your four-legged friends get even more room to play during the less-crowded shoulder season, which also comes with the perks of lower lodging rates. Find your perfect dog-friendly home away fr Read more.

Wild Blue Dogs camp along Lake Tahoe? You lucky dog.

A person sits on a wooden dock at sunset, flanked by two large dogs. The person is facing away from the camera and being licked on both sides of their face by the affectionate dogs. Calm waters of Lake Tahoe and soft sunlight provide a serene backdrop, creating a moment of simple companionship and peace.

There is still time to book your Lake Tahoe adventure! Photo by Sharon, Barbara, Diane.

Remember the magic of sleepaway camp? Now imagine a similar adventure, but for adults – with your pup by your side! That dream is real during Wild Blue Dogs’ 2024 fall camp, September 16 to 22. Set on the Lake Tahoe waterfront, this exciting getaway packages dog-friendly activities, instruction, meals, and fun with new friends.You’ll also enjoy great weather, clear water and quiet Tahoe bea Read more.

On & off-leash adventures

A woman in a light blue outfit and baseball cap sits on a boat beside her white Labrador Retriever. They both enjoy the sunny day on Big Bear Lake, with forested hills and clear skies in the background.

Maya & Roxanne on a Holloway’s Marina & RV Park Pontoon Boat. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the Read more.

Making memories on the Mendocino coast

A small dog in a red sweater adorned with holiday decorations stands on a yellow "Ocean Kayak" at the water's edge in Mendocino. The kayak is partially submerged, and gentle waves meet the shore. The dog looks alert and curious.

Photo by Little River Inn.

With soaking tubs, waterfront lawns and Pacific-view balconies, the Little River Inn invites guests to relax and recharge. On-property fun Read more.

Big Bear Lake: A cool canine retreat

A black and white dog wades in the shallow water at Big Bear Lake. Behind it, a marina with boat docks and several boats sits next to the shore. In the background, a building is nestled among mountains under a clear blue sky.

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 the adjacent desert and Southern California areas. This picturesque mountain town, renowned for its mild climate and breathtaking alpine vistas, offers a refreshing escape for both dogs and those who follow. Read more.

Dog-friendly lakes not named “Tahoe”

A black Labrador Retriever in an orange life jacket sits on a boat, looking out over a calm, dog-friendly lake. The water is surrounded by forested mountains and the sky above is bright blue with scattered clouds.

On a sun-drenched summer afternoon, few activities feel better than splashing in a cool lake – and that goes for both pups Read more.

Six water safety tips to protect your dog

A brown dachshund in a yellow life jacket stands at the forefront, gazing directly into the camera. In the blurred background, two people are rowing a boat on a lake encircled by thick, green forest. The dog takes center stage, highlighting the importance of water safety for pets while still capturing an active outdoor scene.

Plenty of dog breeds love swimming, splashing and playing fetch on the beach, especially on hot summer afternoons. By following Read more.

Have a dog-gone good time at Folsom Lake

A fluffy, golden-brown dog rests in the shallow waters of Folsom Lake, its head and back breaking the clear surface. The still water mirrors both the dog and the rocky, tree-lined surroundings.

Sacha enjoying the water in Folsom Lake. Photo by Gretchen Wolf.

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. Read more.

Make a splash on Shasta Lake

A golden retriever stands ankle-deep in Shasta Lake, amid scattered rocks. Evergreen trees frame the background, dominated by a tall, snow-capped mountain under a sky filled with clouds. The setting is calm and scenic.

Three rivers feed Shasta Lake, a recreational treasure that doubles as California’s largest reservoir. Interstate 5 crosses the 30,000-acre body of Read more.

California’s coolest mountain getaway: Big Bear Lake

A black and white dog stands in the shallow water at Big Bear Lake. Nearby, several boats are docked beside a marina building with blue awnings. In the background, green-forested mountains rise under a clear blue sky.

Photo by Visit Big Bear.

Big Bear Lake puts an alpine spin on classic California adventures. Set high in the San Bernardino National Forest, just Read more.

Discover dog-friendly Oakland: A canine paradise

A carved wooden sculpture of a dog's head stands out, showcasing detailed craftsmanship. Behind it, an Oakland street appears blurred but recognizable with trees and parked cars lining the pavement. The sculpture features a collar adorned with intricate patterns.

Cappuccino the Dog is a beloved statue located at the intersection of Alcatraz Avenue and Racine Street in North Oakland. The statue was created by artist Devyon Harrison and represents Cappuccino, a terrier-lab mix.

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 communities try to discourage dog people. Some of the best parks (can you say towering redwoods?) to hike with your dog are right here, and the Oakland food scene with its dog-friendly diversity of delicious food and drink is not to missed. Let's look at all Read more.

Three amazing dog-friendly road trips in California

Two brown dogs lean out of a car window, enjoying the wind and the view of California's coastline. The scene includes a rugged coast, blue ocean waves, and a partly cloudy sky on a sunny day. This road trip has the dogs looking content.

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: Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes, Jenner up Highway 1 to Leggett, and Redding to Mount Shasta. Each route provides stunning scenery, pet-friendly stops, and unforgettable experiences for you and your furry Read more.

Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: Why your dog will thank you

German shepherd at the Tahoe Keys Resort.

Photo by Tahoe Keys Resort.

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 adventures. Here’s how to make the most of your Tahoe trip with your dog, including some hidden gems. Getting there Traveling to Lake Tahoe with your dog is simple. If … Continued Read more.

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 a mix of adventure, history, and quirky fun. Hike the trails Start your adventure with some of the dog-friendly trails in Yosemite. The Wawona Meadow Loop is a 3.5-mile trail … Continued Read more.

Redding: The perfect pit stop for you and your pooch

A person strolls with their dog across a modern suspension bridge with a glass floor in Redding. Another dog is ahead, and two people walk in the distance. The sky is cloudy, and trees and water flank both sides of the bridge, offering a scenic spot for an outing.

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 no further than Redding, the unsung hero of your adventure. Situated in the heart of an amazing region, Redding is the perfect pit stop for you and your four-legged companion. … Continued Read more.

Find fall fun with your dog on the shores of South Lake Tahoe

A group of people and their dogs hike through a rocky trail in a forested area. Large boulders and tall trees surround them. They take in the scenic view of South Lake Tahoe's lake and mountains under a clear sky, enjoying the fall season.

Photo by Wild Blue Dogs.

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 Blue Dogs holds their Fall Camp activities September 16 – 22 on a fenced, 33-acre property between Edgewood Golf Course and Zephyr Cove, on the Nevada side of the lake. (The facility doubles as a midsummer 4-H camp). Read more.

Big Bear Lake, The ultimate dog-friendly destination year-round

Three dogs run along a narrow dirt path in the forest at Big Bear Lake, CA. A smiling golden retriever is on the left. In the center is a smaller dog, and to the right is a larger black-and-white dog with its tongue out. Trees line the sides of the path, and sunlight filters through the branches in this dog-friendly area.

Photo by Visit Big Bear Lake

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 summer swims, fall hikes, winter snow fun, or spring blooms, Big Bear has it all for you and your four-legged friend. Summer: water, trails, and tail-wagging fun Summer at Big … Continued Read more.

Winter-friendly things to do with your pets in Yosemite Mariposa

Photo by Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau.

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 activities that evoke feelings of joy and awe in humans are bound to elevate the happiness of dogs too. From sniffing pine cones to exploring misty waterfall trails and encountering an abundance of sticks, dogs can revel in the s Read more.

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 you near Mt. Shasta, is the undisputed Trail Capital of California with over 225 miles of trails within 15 miles of its city center. Redding is also the gateway to the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Few areas managed by the National Park S Read more.

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 just the perfect destination. Redding, the last major city on Interstate 5 as you near Mt. Shasta, is the undisputed Trail Capital of California with over 225 miles of trails within 15 miles of its city center. Read more.

Russian River Adventures

Photo by 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 eco-adventure outfitter, welcomes four-paw passengers in its SOAR inflatable canoes. Since 2003, thousands of dogs and their owners have enjoyed awesome days dog-paddling down the Russian River in these tough and stable crafts. Read more.

Explore Sacramento and folsom

Colonial architecture in Old Sacramento Historic District

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 Gold Rush as supply centers, and both celebrate that legacy today. Old Sacramento and the Folsom Historic District are great places to explore with your pooch. Browse the shops, soak up some history and enjoy a meal at a patio café before heading out for a stroll Read more.

Dog-friendly folsom

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 the western gateway to California Gold Country. Read more.