While the rules for four-legged visitors vary across California’s state parks, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) offers a very pup-friendly experience. Dogs are allowed on trails here, and – with just a few exceptions – in the water. You’ll find the lake about 25 miles northeast of Sacramento, a best-in-show basecamp for summer fun.
The Folsom Dam, built in 1955 on the American River, created Folsom Lake. Covering 10,000 acres and featuring 75 miles of shoreline, it’s a recreational jewel at the base of the Sierra foothills. Dogs are welcome in the water, with these exceptions: They’re not allowed in the swim areas at Black Miners Bar, Granite Bay or Beals Point, and they’re not allowed in the swim or turf areas at Nimbus Flat.
Aside from those spots, you’ll find countless outdoor activities at Folsom Lake SRA. Dogs can swim and splash, of course, and boating, fishing, windsurfing and water skiing are big. On land, trails accommodate hikers, horseback riders and cyclists. Picnic areas dot the park, as do campgrounds. Nearby, you can also visit the historic Folsom Powerhouse or salmon-rearing ponds at Nimbus Fish Hatchery.
The American River Parkway and the paved, multi-use Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail stretches between the southern tip of Folsom Lake and Sacramento. Dog-friendly hotels here include the Sheraton Grand, Citizen Hotel and Residence Inn. The downtown Hyatt Regency is next to Capitol Park, a 40-acre favorite for long walks with the dog. The Westin Sacramento, just off I-5, has Sacramento River Bike Trail access, bocce courts and fire pits. The property’s restaurant, Scott’s Seafood on the River, seats diners with dogs on a pretty riverfront patio.
Remember, Sacramento’s big backyard also includes Gold Country, the Sacramento River Delta, Placer County’s public lands, the High Sierra and Yosemite. The city is a great jumping-off point for longer getaways.
