Lodging and camping Blog

The DogTrekker.com research and editorial teams are experts at California dog travel, with great stories about the best lodging and camping places across the state to stay where your dogs are as welcome as you are. Get the scoop on dog-friendly hotels and lodging, from luxury resorts to economical motels, rustic cabins to campgrounds, vacation rentals to B&B’s.

To Bridgeport and beyond in the Eastern Sierra

Bridgeport in the Eastern Sierra offers dog-friendly lodges, the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park, and the pristine Virginia Lakes at 9,000 feet. With rustic cabins, trout-filled waters, and quiet mountain scenery, it's an unforgettable stop on Highway 395.

Dreamy Placer County hotels for dogs and their families

Placer County has dog-friendly hotels and rentals from Roseville to Lake Tahoe. Options range from the retro-cool Foothills Motel in Auburn and modern Basecamp Hotel in Tahoe City to pet-welcoming cabin and lakefront home rentals throughout the region.

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Dog-friendly adventures along Highway 395 to Mammoth Lakes

Highway 395 along the Eastern Sierra serves up stunning scenery, dog-friendly trails around Convict Lake and Mono Lake, cross-country skiing near Mammoth Lakes and even a genuine ghost town at Bodie State Historic Park.

Maya (RIP), DogTrekkerr.com's Barketing Director, walking near the Sacramento River Trail in Redding.

DogTrekker® 15th anniversary

DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind --…

Dog-friendly wineries: Just a click away

DogTrekker.com highlights the best dog-friendly wine regions across California, from Mendocino and Sonoma to Napa, Gold Country, and the Central Coast, with an interactive map to help you plan your next tasting adventure with your pup.

Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe beaches: Your ultimate summer guide

From Carnelian Bay coffee shops to secluded coves on the Nevada side, here is your guide to the best dog-friendly beaches at Lake Tahoe. Both shores offer sandy spots where your pup can splash all summer long.

Reserving a camp spot for Spot

Planning a camping trip with your dog? Here are key resources for reserving sites in California, plus tips for snagging last-minute spots at popular coastal and mountain campgrounds that often book out six months in advance.

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On the way to Yosemite: East entrance

The drive to Yosemite through the east entrance via Highway 120 and scenic Highway 395 is a destination in itself. Mono Lake, Lee Vining, and the off-leash trails around Saddlebag Lake offer stunning Sierra scenery your dog can actually enjoy.

Image from Puptopia Festival returns to Big Bear Lake on DogTrekker

Paw-some events for the dog days of summer

Pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California this summer and fall. From Puptopia in Big Bear to Bark & Meow in Berkeley and winery fundraisers in Napa, these events bring dog lovers together while supporting rescue and animal welfare groups.

Landscape view of Lake Tahoe with snow-covered mountains and forests seen from Incline Village on the Nevada side — Adobe Images

Close encounters in Nevada County

Nevada County is packed with dog-friendly fun, from cozy inns and patio dining in historic Nevada City to the unique wooden flumes of the Independence Trail, where a switchback ramp leads to a scenic swimming hole your dog will love.

Auto Camp. Photo by Autocamp Russian River.

California glamping your dog will dig

From coastal safari tents and redwood Airstreams to vineyard cabins and desert retreats, California's dog-friendly glamping scene offers the best of outdoor adventure without sacrificing creature comforts. Pack the treats and let the tail-wagging begin.

On the road to Yosemite

The Yosemite Region spans four gateway counties, each with its own dog-friendly highlights. From Merced River hikes in Mariposa County to Gold Rush history in Tuolumne County, the journey can be as rewarding as the destination.

Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too! in Mendocino.

Dogtrekker’s best river adventures

California rivers offer some of the best warm-weather fun you can have with your dog. Paddle inflatable canoes on the Russian River, float the Truckee River from Tahoe City, or raft the American River in Sacramento.

Image from Tahoe splash spots on DogTrekker

Make a splash at North Lake Tahoe

North Lake Tahoe has several dog-friendly beaches worth knowing about, from Carnelian Bay and Coon Street Beach to secluded Chimney Beach on the Nevada side. Pebble Beach on the West Shore rounds out the options.

Dogs love Tahoe

Tahoe Keys Resort is a top pick for dog-loving visitors to South Lake Tahoe. This private marina community offers cabins, condos, and homes with boat docks, easy lake access, and a staff that genuinely loves welcoming four-legged guests.

Dog-friendly California destination, photo courtesy of Tahoe Keys Resort

Lake Tahoe’s South Shore and more

South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals offer space and flexibility for dog-friendly getaways. Tahoe Keys Resort provides private marina access, while properties ranging from cozy cabins to mansions sleeping 22 put you close to the lake and miles of hiking trails.

Find a dog-friendly place in Placer County

Placer County stretches from near Sacramento to Tahoe's north shore, offering dog-friendly trails at Auburn State Recreation Area and the lesser-known Cronan Ranch. Near the lake, Truckee and Palisades Tahoe round out the options for outdoor adventure with your pup.