Anthony Chabot Regional Park spans 5,067 acres just 20 minutes from downtown Oakland, giving you and your dog plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded. This East Bay Regional Parks property has something going for it whether you want a quick afternoon hike or a full camping trip.

The trail system here is genuinely extensive. You can walk along Lake Chabot’s shoreline with views of the water, or head out on the East Bay Skyline National Trail, which passes through the park as part of its 31-mile route from Richmond to Castro Valley. The landscape shifts as you go—grasslands give way to chaparral and eucalyptus groves, so even a familiar walk feels different depending on which direction you choose. Dogs are allowed on many trails, though it’s worth checking ahead about any seasonal closures or restrictions.

If you want to stay overnight, the park has a year-round campground. Sites are pretty basic but functional, and you can pitch a tent knowing your dog can come along. It’s a legitimate way to spend a night under the stars without driving hours away from the Bay Area.

There’s also the Chabot-to-Garin Regional Trail, a six-mile connector that links Anthony Chabot to Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area if you want to expand your options or do a longer day trip. After hiking, the picnic areas scattered throughout the park work well for a lunch break where your dog can rest beside you.

Day-use fees are minimal—just $2 per day for dogs—which makes repeated visits affordable. The park gets busy on weekends, so if you prefer quieter trails, mornings on weekdays are noticeably calmer. Bring water for your dog since the sun exposure on some trails is real, especially in summer. The East Bay Skyline Trail section can get dusty, so paws can get pretty grimy by day’s end.