The River Ranch Lodge sits right on the Truckee River in Tahoe City, and if you’re planning to stay overnight with your dog, this is one of the rare places in the area that actually allows them. The 19 boutique rooms have that old-school Alpine lodge feel — the kind of place that’s been welcoming visitors for decades without trying too hard to be trendy about it. You’ll need to arrange your dog’s room in advance, so call ahead to confirm availability and any specific details about where your dog can stay.

The restaurant is the real draw here, and it’s genuinely worth visiting even if you’re not staying overnight. There’s a dining room and bar that cantilever right out over the river, so you’re basically eating above the water. Inside, there’s another dining room with a proper stone fireplace and an intimate vibe. The seasonal outdoor patio is right along the riverfront and welcomes dogs, which means you can have a meal or drink with your dog actually present instead of leaving them behind at your hotel.

The whole place is nonsmoking, which is a plus if you’re sensitive to that. Fair warning: there’s no air conditioning, so summer evenings rely on the river breeze coming through. Winter is probably when this spot really shines anyway — there’s something about a fireplace, a view of the Truckee River, and a hot meal that makes sense during Tahoe’s cold months.

The location makes it convenient for exploring Tahoe City itself, and you’re close enough to downtown that you could walk around and hit other spots without driving. If you’re looking for a riverside place that will actually welcome your dog in some capacity, whether you’re staying or just eating, this delivers on that front.