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.
A seaside paradise for pups and people
Little River Inn sits between Mendocino's redwoods and the Pacific coast, with a footpath to Van Damme State Beach and easy access to Big River Trail. This 225-acre, family-owned property has welcomed dogs and their people for over 80 years.
Read more
Best-in-show rooms with a view
Little River Inn's pet-friendly rooms range from garden retreats to ocean-view suites with gas fireplaces and private patios. Dogs receive treats, bowls, towels and furniture covers at check-in, and well-behaved pups can even ride along on the golf course.
Read more
Here’s the dish on dog-friendly dining
Little River Inn's new heated dining cabanas let dogs join their people for seasonal meals featuring fresh local seafood, foraged mushrooms and farm produce. Most cabanas seat four people and two dogs, with ordering by QR code and tableside delivery.
Read more
Paws-itively perfect resort packages
Little River Inn's Water Dog Package bundles a two-night stay with your choice of dog-friendly sea cave kayaking or a Big River canoe trip, plus a dinner voucher and pet goodie bag. Available May through September on the Mendocino coast.
Read more
Making tracks in Coastal Mendocino
Mendocino County draws dog lovers with old-growth redwoods, dramatic coastline and genuinely pet-passionate lodging. Hike the Big River Trail, walk the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, then check into the Little River Inn.
Read more
Follow the sun to Greater Ontario
Greater Ontario, or GOCAL, is an under-the-radar Southern California gem for dog-friendly travel. Hike San Gabriel Mountain trails, shop at Victoria Gardens with your pup, treat them to a Doggie Delights cupcake, and settle into one of several pet-welcoming hotels.
Read more
Orli La Jolla
Orli La Jolla is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of La Jolla Village that welcomes dogs. Guests enjoy modern rooms with upscale touches, a pet pampering package upgrade, and easy walking access to beaches, restaurants, galleries and shops.
Read more
This is how to snag the most dog‑friendly room
Booking a hotel with your dog takes homework. This guide walks through the key questions to ask before reserving, from size and breed restrictions to pet fees, in-room amenities, relief areas, and policies about leaving your dog unattended.
Read more
Stanford Inn: #1 for families
Families love the Stanford Inn for its kid-friendly adventures, from canoe trips on Big River to scavenger hunts in the organic gardens. Spacious suites, a heated pool and complimentary breakfast round out the appeal.
Read more
Stanford Inn: #1 for couples
The Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast sets a dreamy scene for romantic getaways. Ocean-view rooms with fireplaces, spa services, river tours and creative workshops help couples reconnect alongside their pups.
Read more
Stanford Inn: #1 for dogs
The Stanford Inn has welcomed dogs since its earliest days, with no size or breed restrictions. Pups get welcome treats, in-room dog sheets, stainless steel bowls and 10 acres of trails and gardens to explore.
Read more
The most dog-friendly airports in California
Flying with your dog through California? LAX, SFO and SAN lead the pack with indoor and outdoor pet relief areas, therapy dog programs and clear guidance for travelers. Here's what to expect at the state's most accommodating airports.
Read more
Stanford Inn: #1 for health and happiness
Happiness and health are woven into every stay at the Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast. Expect plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, wellness workshops, ocean views and four state parks within two miles.
Read more
Stanford Inn: #1 for the environment
The Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast has championed sustainability since the 1980s with organic gardens, plant-based cuisine, biodiesel vehicles and free EV charging. It proves that eco-friendly travel can also be luxurious.
Read more
Dog-friendly delights in Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach sits between Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay with an off-leash public beach perfect for well-behaved dogs. Stay in chic tiny home cabins at Dillon Beach Resort or historic waterfront cottages at Nick's Cove.
Read more
Paws-itively welcoming hotel properties
Mendocino County's coastal hotels go above and beyond for dogs. From Rendezvous Mendocino's peaceful B&B setting to the Stanford Inn's dog-friendly canoe rentals and the Little River Inn's fireside cottages, these properties make four-legged guests feel right at home.
Read more
Unleash the fun at Muir Beach
Muir Beach is a dog-friendly Marin County cove just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Pups can play off-leash or under voice control on the beach, and nearby hotels in Mill Valley and Sausalito welcome pets.
Read more
Tasty treats for hungry travelers
Mendocino County's dining scene welcomes dogs with open arms. The Little River Inn is debuting cozy Pup Cabanas, James Beard-nominee Scott Baird runs a beloved burger stand in Philo, and the Stanford Inn serves plant-based meals at pup-friendly lobby tables.
Read more
Bask in San Francisco’s fall sunshine
Fall brings San Francisco's sunniest weather, making it the perfect time to explore the city with your dog. From off-leash Fort Funston to the Presidio's bay-view trails, here are our favorite spots.
Read more
Sea breezes and sand on the San Francisco Peninsula
Half Moon Bay on the San Francisco Peninsula is a natural getaway where dogs can romp on beaches, dine at patio restaurants with special pet menus and stay at seaside lodges right along Highway 1.
Read more
Escape into nature at Stone Ranch and Mendocino Grove
Mendocino Stone Ranch is a 50-acre retreat with art installations, redwood trails and unique lodging options including a yurt with ocean views. Nearby Mendocino Grove hosts dog-friendly group events amid stately forests.
Read more
Dog-friendly adventures await at Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake, just 100 miles from Los Angeles, is a top dog-friendly getaway in the San Bernardino National Forest. Paddle the seven-mile lake, hike over 100 miles of trails, then unwind at a pet-welcoming cabin or lakeside restaurant.
Read more
Putah Canyon Campground: Dog-friendly camping on Lake Berryessa
Putah Canyon Campground on Lake Berryessa's quiet west side offers waterfront campsites, gentle lakeshore walks and peaceful mornings with your dog. Facilities are basic, but the wide-open shoreline and starry skies make it an ideal low-key camping getaway.
Read more
Five ways to explore the California coast
Five dog-friendly stops near Noyo Harbor Inn showcase the best of the Mendocino Coast. Glass Beach, the Noyo Headlands Trail, the Skunk Train, Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and the Big River Trail all welcome leashed pups.
Read more