Butte County: nature and culture for pups and their people

The sun sparkles across orchards, farm fields, riverfront parks and brewery patios throughout Butte County. Set in central California, at the southern end of the Shasta Cascade region, this dog-friendly destination presents the best of Gold Rush history plus beautiful hiking routes, cultural highlights and vibrant college-town energy.

From houseboating on Lake Oroville, to hiking the Jonesville Canyon Trail north of Paradise, to exploring farmers markets and art events in Chico, classic Golden State fun unfolds across Butte County.

Indie boutiques and open-air restaurant patios abound in downtown Chico. Parkside Tap House stocks treats for pups, while Burgers & Brews and Farmers Brewing have dog-friendly spaces plus delicious bites and beers.

Leash up the pup and take in 200 plant and tree species along Big Chico Creek at the Chico State Campus Arboretum, or explore countless paths crisscrossing Bidwell Park. Local dogwalkers also love Chico’s DeGarmo Dog Park. To hike landscapes formed by lava flows, head to North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve.

Several dog-friendly hotels call Chico home, including the DoubleTree, Residence Inn, Oxford Suites and Hampton Inn. The Best Western Paradise also welcomes pets. Furry friends are allowed on paved roadways and campgrounds in Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, and the lake is a great place for watersports.