Other places to stay
Lake Minden RV Park
Nicolaus
Lake Minden RV Resort Campground in Nicolaus, Sutter County, offers a serene retreat for camping enthusiasts in Gold Country.
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All aboard for Gold Country history
Tuolumne County's Gold Country is home to two must-visit heritage railroads. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park features Hollywood's famous Movie Railroad, while the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers narrated steam train rides near Yosemite.
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Dog-friendly Sierra County: Downieville and the Sierra Buttes
Sierra County's tiny town of Downieville on the Yuba River makes a perfect fall base camp. Sleep in a streamside cabin, fish the river and hike the steep Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail for jaw-dropping views from nearly 9,000 feet.
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Dog-friendly Highway 20 preserves beckon in spring
The Sierra foothills along Highway 20 between Marysville and Nevada City burst with wildflowers and waterfalls each spring. South Yuba River State Park and the vast Spenceville Wildlife Area both offer gorgeous, dog-friendly trails worth a weekend trip.
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Exceptions to California State Parks rules
Most California state parks keep dogs off dirt trails, but a few welcome leashed pups on paths beyond the pavement. Samuel P Taylor, South Yuba River and MacKerricher state parks stand out as happy exceptions worth a visit.
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Go with the rivers’ flow
Grab a paddle and bring your dog along for a float on California's best rivers. From canoe trips on the Russian River near Healdsburg to outrigger canoes on Mendocino's Big River and rafting the Truckee at Tahoe, wet fun awaits.
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A fine find in gold country
The South Yuba River in Nevada County is a gem for dog-friendly hiking. The Hoyt Trail leads to a historic river crossing with sandy beaches, emerald pools, and granite perches perfect for a cooling dip.
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