If you’re driving I-10 west through Riverside County and your dog needs to stretch their legs, the Whitewater Rest Area is a straightforward pit stop. These state-run facilities are designed specifically to give highway travelers and their dogs a safe place to break up the drive without having to leave the freeway.

The Whitewater location has everything you’d expect at a California rest area. There’s a dedicated pet area where your dog can get out of the car and move around, which matters more than you’d think after a few hours on the road. Water is available, so you won’t need to worry about your dog getting thirsty between stops. The facility also has restrooms, picnic tables if you want to grab a quick meal, litter containers, a phone, and handicap access.

Rest areas like this one are maintained by Caltrans and funded by the state, so they’re free to use. It’s worth noting that some California rest areas occasionally close for maintenance, so if you’re making a specific trip where timing matters, having a backup plan isn’t a bad idea. But generally, Whitewater is a reliable option on I-10 west.

The setup here is no-frills—you’re not going to find anything fancy or lots of shade, but that’s not really the point. You pull in, let your dog do their business in the designated area, grab some water, maybe use the restroom yourself, and you’re back on the road. It’s functional and gets the job done, which is exactly what you need when you’re covering distance.

One thing to keep in mind: Caltrans asks drivers to move over or slow down if you see flashing lights while on the highways, protecting workers and CHP officers who are doing their jobs to keep everyone safe.