Arrival and accommodations
Traveling with your dog to Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding California desert region offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, pet-friendly accommodations, and a laid-back vibe. Start by finding the right place to stay. La Quinta Resort & Club treats dogs like VIPs with dog-friendly rooms and lush grounds for walks. For a boutique experience, Arrive Palm Springs welcomes dogs of all sizes.
For a more home-like feel, consider a pet-friendly Airbnb or VRBO property with fenced yards, perfect for letting your dog roam freely. Browse more dog-friendly hotels in Greater Palm Springs to find the perfect fit.
Outdoor adventures
Palm Springs and its surrounding areas are known for dramatic desert landscapes and endless sunshine. Start with a hike on the dog-friendly Tahquitz Canyon trail, featuring a 60-foot waterfall. Remember to keep your dog on a leash and bring plenty of water.
For a leisurely walk, visit the Palm Springs Dog Park at Demuth Park, which has separate areas for large and small dogs, shaded benches, and water stations. Discover more off-leash options in our Greater Palm Springs dog parks guide.
Dining with your dog
Palm Springs has numerous pet-friendly dining options. Jake’s in downtown Palm Springs offers a dog-friendly patio and a menu featuring doggy delights. For a casual setting, head to Koffi North Palm Springs with its spacious patio. For more picks, see our guide to dog-friendly dining in Greater Palm Springs.
Exploring the desert cities
Beyond Palm Springs, explore the charming towns in the desert region. Palm Desert is known for its shopping and dining. The El Paseo Shopping District is dog-friendly, with many stores allowing pets inside. In Indio, the Shields Date Garden features a pet-friendly garden and date shakes from the cafe.
Pioneertown
A short drive from Palm Springs, Pioneertown is an Old West town originally built as a movie set. It’s a fun destination with old-timey storefronts and a pet-friendly bar. Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace welcomes dogs on their outdoor patio.
Sky Valley
Sky Valley is known for its natural hot springs, with several dog-friendly resorts and RV parks. Enjoy a soak in mineral-rich hot springs after a day of exploring.
Dog-friendly art installations
Palm Springs and the surrounding areas are home to numerous outdoor art installations. The Desert X biennial exhibition features large-scale contemporary artworks that are accessible for visitors with pets.
Day trips to nearby attractions
Greater Palm Springs is a great base for day trips. Visit the Salton Sea for desolate beauty and unique sights like the abandoned North Shore Yacht Club and Salvation Mountain, an art installation. You can also take a detour to Joshua Tree and Anza-Borrego for more desert adventures with your pup.
Stargazing in the desert
The clear desert skies are perfect for stargazing. Head to Joshua Tree National Park for an incredible night under the stars. Bring a blanket and snacks, and enjoy the celestial show with your pup.
Traveling to Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding California desert region with your dog is a rewarding experience filled with adventures, relaxation, and bonding. The region’s pet-friendly accommodations, dining options, and outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for dog lovers. Be sure to review our tips for visiting the desert with your dog before you go. Pack your bags, grab your leash, and set out for a memorable desert getaway with your best friend.
