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 located in communities around the lake. Waterfront paths with grand views offer another way to take it all in. And seasonal camps by Wild Blue Dogs link dog lovers through activities, amenities, accommodations and dog-gone good fun.

Plenty of dog-friendly beaches beckon on Lake Tahoe’s north shore. Look for the Coon Street Dog Beach just off Highway 28 in Kings Beach. It’s near a boat launch, some public restrooms and a picnic area. Leashed dogs are allowed at Carnelian West Beach, which extends along several hundred feet of Carnelian Bay shoreline. Follow Highway 89 about four miles south from Tahoe City to splash along the rocky stretch known as Pebble Beach.

Watersports aren’t for everyone, of course, but you can still appreciate the region’s waves and waterways while on land. Near Tahoe City, the Tahoe Rim Trail includes 165 miles of multi-use paths with views of waterfalls, alpine lakes and Lake Tahoe itself. Remember to keep dogs leashed at trailheads, near other hikers, and on steep or slippery terrain.

South Lake Tahoe has long been home to one of Team DogTrekker’s favorite seasonal experiences: summer and fall camps organized by Wild Blue Dogs. Combining four-legged fun and nonprofit fundraising, these multi-day getaways support canine cancer research and grants for households who need help covering pet cancer treatments. 

The immersive gatherings bundle dog-friendly instruction, activities, meals and optional overnight accommodations. Participants make new friends and interact with professional trainers who lead sessions in nose work, agility, problem solving, recall, kayaking and more. You can also choose from pet-centric photography time, wellness and nutrition classes, canine good citizen (CGC and CGCA) testing, and various certifications.

The 2025 Wild Blue Dogs Camps take place June 2-8 and September 14-20. Spots fill up fast, so reserve your spot soon. 

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