Camanche Lake‘s 56 miles of shoreline in Amador County give you and your dog plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded. The lake was created by Camanche Dam to manage the Mokelumne River’s flow, and it’s now managed by the California Parks Company for camping and boating while the East Bay Municipal Utilities District oversees the broader water system. Dogs are welcome in the campgrounds and around most of the lake, which makes it genuinely convenient for a dog-inclusive trip.

The sandy shoreline is where your dog will probably spend most of their time — it’s ideal for swimming and running around without restrictions. The water is usually calm enough that even dogs who aren’t strong swimmers can wade in safely. You’ll see other dogs doing the same thing, so your dog won’t be alone in the water.

Keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on the hiking trails, which are reserved for people and horses. But there’s enough to do without them. The campground spreads across both the north and south shores with a real range of options: tent sites, primitive camping areas, RV sites, and even boat-in camping if you want something more adventurous. Many sites are dog-friendly, though policies vary by location, so it’s worth confirming when you book.

If you want to get out on the water, the marinas have boat rentals and equipment available. There are also seasonal snack bars and a coffee shop near the main areas, which is helpful when you need a break from the heat. Fishing is popular here too if that interests you.

The lake sits in rolling hills that are pretty in spring and early summer, though it gets hot by mid-July. Plan your visit for cooler months if possible, and bring plenty of water for your dog since there’s a lot of sun exposure along the shoreline. The campground fills up on weekends during summer, so arriving early in the day gives you better choices for where to set up.