Van Duzen County Park sits about a short drive east on Highway 36 from Carlotta, nestled in redwood country where the Van Duzen River runs cool and clear. If you’re looking for a place where your dog can actually get in the water and explore without constant restrictions, this is it—the park has two main swimming holes that dogs genuinely enjoy, and the park’s management actually welcomes them here.

Swimmer’s Delight is the main draw during summer. It has shallow and deep sections, so even dogs that aren’t confident swimmers can wade in the shallows while you sit on the bank watching sandstone bluffs rise up across the water. The river gets busy July and August, so arriving early matters if you want a decent parking spot and some elbow room.

If you want something quieter, Pamplin Grove is in the western annex—it’s less trafficked, more secluded, and has its own camping and recreation areas. The tradeoff is that Pamplin Grove closes to day users when it’s reserved for groups, so you’ll want to check ahead. The main park area stays open for day visitors year-round.

Bring a leash even though dogs can roam off-leash here if they have reliable voice control. It’s genuinely useful for those moments when another dog shows up or when you need to manage situations around swimmers and picnickers. The park has everything you’d need for a full day—picnic areas, actual camping if you want to stay overnight, fishing access, and hiking trails that wind through the old-growth redwoods.

Summer heat can make midday visits uncomfortable, and parking fills up fast when families arrive in waves. A morning visit gives you calmer water, fewer crowds, and a chance to let your dog swim without navigating around dozens of other people. The river itself is the main attraction here, so plan your visit around water conditions and your dog’s swimming ability rather than expecting extensive developed amenities.