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.
Bass Lake: A pet-friendly, Yosemite-area lure
Bass Lake near Yosemite has warm water, dog-friendly resorts, and vacation rentals surrounded by Sierra National Forest. Rent a pontoon boat, hike to a fire lookout, or relax at a nearby winery while your pup enjoys the mountain air.
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Dog-friendly Sacramento: Two rivers run through it
Sacramento American and Sacramento rivers meet at Discovery Park, where the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail offers riverside scenery and wildlife. Start in Old Sacramento or loop William Land Park south of downtown.
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Spring into Yosemite
Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite with your dog. Waterfalls rush, wildflowers bloom, and leashed dogs are welcome on most paved roads and paths in the valley. Mariposa County along the way adds dog-friendly lodging, dining and hikes.
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Around Clear Lake we go
Nearly a dozen communities ring Clear Lake in Lake County, each with its own dog-friendly appeal. From Lakeport's dog parks and boat rentals to Kelseyville's wineries and Clearlake's waterfront cabins, there's plenty for you and your pup to explore.
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Vet Buzz: Oh no\! My dog is limping\!
If your dog suddenly starts limping on a walk, stop and let her rest. Check paws for foxtails, cuts, or debris. Common causes range from soft tissue sprains to joint disease, so a vet visit is important for proper diagnosis.
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Orphan dog 2019
Orphan Dog in Lake County rescues dogs from local shelters and provides medical care and fostering until they find forever homes. Since 2004, they've saved over 4,500 dogs and run free spay-neuter clinics to keep animals out of shelters.
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Mammoth Lakes winter woof
Mammoth Lakes welcomes winter DogTrekkers with dozens of dog-friendly lodgings and endless open spaces. Cross-country ski from your cabin at Tamarack Lodge, snowshoe around Convict Lake, or explore miles of plowed trails through stunning Eastern Sierra scenery.
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Go north to find dog-friendly cottages in Mendocino County
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two dog-friendly cottages beyond its well-known rooms. Rosie Cottage features ocean views and vaulted ceilings, while the Llama Barn Suite comes with a private hot tub.
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Little bit of magic in El Dorado County
El Dorado County's Apple Hill region near Placerville comes alive in fall with more than 50 farms and a new Hard Cider Trail featuring six dog-friendly producers. Nearby cabins and glamping spots make it easy to stay the weekend.
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End of summer coasting with your four-legged friend
After summer crowds thin out, California's Central Coast is ideal for a dog-friendly getaway. From Santa Cruz cottage rentals and KOA campgrounds to retro motels in Pacific Grove and cabin-style inns in Carmel, options abound for you and your pup.
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Best Friends’ no kill Los Angeles 2019
Best Friends Animal Society's No Kill Los Angeles initiative has raised L.A.'s shelter save rate to over 93 percent through partnerships, spay-neuter programs, and a robust adoption network. Volunteers are always needed to help keep animals safe.
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Forest bathing with Fido, anyone?
Mendocino County is the perfect place to try forest bathing with your dog. The region misty redwood forests, fresh air, and wide-open spaces offer a deeply restorative experience for you and your pup.
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Cuddle up with your pup in Mendocino county
Mendocino County is worth an overnight stay, and dog-friendly lodging options abound. From secluded modern cottages at Sheep Dung Properties to oceanfront pet suites at the Beachcomber Motel, there is something for every travel style and budget.
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Five of California’s best dog-friendly wineries
California wine country has plenty of room for your dog at the tasting table. Robert Mondavi in Napa, Dutcher Crossing in Dry Creek Valley, and three more wineries offer outdoor patios and doggie treats.
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We love California state parks
California state parks offer wonderful outings for dogs and their owners. From the secluded sands of Bean Hollow State Beach to the trails of Hearst San Simeon, here are eight of the best to visit.
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Brews and views in Humboldt County
Humboldt County pairs towering redwoods, wild beaches, and craft breweries into one great dog-friendly destination. Hike old-growth forest, explore Black Sands Beach at Shelter Cove, and wind down with brews at Gyppo Ale Mill.
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An unforgettable ride in Mendocino County
Mendocino County's coast is an adventure playground for dogs. Ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood groves, paddle a handcrafted outrigger canoe on Big River, grab fish and chips overlooking Noyo Harbor, and stay in an ocean-view vacation home nearby.
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Canine cruising: A dog lover’s guide to RV travel
Hitting the road in an RV with your dog can be a fantastic adventure with the right preparation. From gradual acclimation to packing comfort items, these tips will keep your pup happy on the open road.
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Dog-friendly Ukiah: A dog lover’s paradise in Mendocino County
Ukiah, right off Highway 101 in Mendocino County, is a funky dog lover's dream. The town offers an off-leash dog park, a scenic rail trail through vineyards, pet-friendly breweries and annual events celebrating all things canine.
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The difference between emotional support animals and service animals
Emotional support animals and service animals have very different legal protections. California's AB 468 law cracks down on fraudulent ESA letters, and understanding the distinction matters for dog owners navigating housing, travel, and public access rights.
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Skunk Train named top scenic train ride
The Skunk Train in Mendocino County earned a top-five spot in USA Today's Best Scenic Train Ride awards. Dogs are welcome aboard for the ride through redwood forests, and the surrounding area offers beaches, trails and breweries.
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Family Dog Rescue: A Sonoma haven for special dogs
Family Dog Rescue in Sonoma is a sanctuary for dogs with special needs, founded by cancer survivor Angela Padilla. The nonprofit provides medical care, behavioral training, and a personalized adoption process for dogs that other shelters often overlook.
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Yosemite and Mariposa County: Awesome dog-friendly guide
Mariposa County near Yosemite is packed with dog-friendly adventures, from the Wawona Meadow Loop and South Fork Trail to pet-welcoming restaurants, historic lodges and even a ghost town tour you can enjoy with your pup.
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Great places to sit, stay and play
Sacramento's dog-friendly hotels range from the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Park to the riverfront Westin and boutique Kimpton Sawyer. Expect welcome treats, pet beds, and easy access to parks and walking trails downtown.
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