Brookdale Lodge sits right on the creek—you can hear water running throughout your stay, and the redwoods are thick enough that even on warm days the air stays cool and damp. The cabins range from small studios to larger multi-room setups, many with their own decks or patios where your dog can move around without leaving the property. Some units open directly onto the grounds rather than a shared courtyard, which matters if your dog needs space away from other guests.

Dogs stay free at Brookdale, with no weight restrictions or additional fees. They’re allowed in the cabins and on the grounds, though you’ll want to keep them leashed in common areas where other guests move through. A few cabins have fenced sections or patio spaces that give dogs some freedom, but this varies by unit—worth confirming which cabin type you’re booking if that matters to you. The creek runs through the property, and while it’s beautiful, the water can be cold and swift depending on season, so supervision is important if your dog likes to wade.

The lodge is on Highway 9 in the unincorporated area between Santa Cruz and Ben Lomond, surrounded by old-growth redwood forest. Several hiking trails branch off nearby—Big Trees Park is walkable from the property, and Henley Park offers easy creek-side paths without a long drive. The cabins have wood-burning stoves and some include kitchenettes or full kitchens, so you’re not forced to eat out every meal. Check-in is typically mid-afternoon, checkout mid-morning. Summer brings crowds from the Bay Area; shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are quieter, though the nights cool down fast year-round, and you’ll appreciate that fireplace. Bring layers and a damp-dog towel—the redwoods drip moisture that soaks everything.