Dog stories
Our DogTrekker writers know dog-friendly California like your pup knows the treat jar—intimately and enthusiastically. Whether sniffing out beaches in San Diego, dog-friendly wineries in Sonoma, hiking trails in the Sierra, or cozy mountain cabins near Big Bear Lake, we're your trusted guides for dog travel. From bustling cities to hidden wilderness gems, we fetch reliable tips, insights, and local secrets to make traveling with your four-legged friend effortless. Trust DogTrekker to lead you and your pup to tail-wagging dog travel adventures across dog-friendly California.
Putah Canyon Campground: Dog-friendly camping on Lake Berryessa
Putah Canyon Campground on Lake Berryessa's quiet west side offers waterfront campsites, gentle lakeshore walks and peaceful mornings with your dog. Facilities are basic, but the wide-open shoreline and starry skies make it an ideal low-key camping getaway.
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Yucaipa Regional Park: dog-friendly lake day
Yucaipa Regional Park in the Inland Empire offers flat lakeside paths, shaded lawns, and a relaxed atmosphere that works well for dogs of all ages. Paved trails loop past three scenic lakes at the foot of the San Bernardino Mountains.
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Calaveras Big Trees State Park with your dog
Calaveras Big Trees State Park lets you stand among giant sequoias with your dog. While pets can't join the dirt grove trails, paved paths near the visitor center wind past towering trees.
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Hidden Falls Regional Park: dog-friendly hikes in Placer County
Hidden Falls Regional Park near Auburn offers 1,200 acres of wide, well-maintained trails through oak foothills, shady creek corridors, and seasonal waterfalls. The approachable terrain works for dogs of all ages and energy levels, with loops you can tailor to…
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The best dog-friendly hotels in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe's clear blue water, miles of shoreline, and endless trails make it a top destination for dog owners. From the modern Basecamp Hotel to the luxury Landing Resort and the quiet Cedar Glen Lodge, these are the best dog-friendly…
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Paw-some road trips from Sacramento
Sacramento's big backyard delivers dog-friendly road trips to Placer County waterfalls, Gold Country mining trails, and small-batch wineries in the Sacramento River Delta. Two-room suites at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade make a comfortable home base.
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Sacramento DIY tasting tours with an artsy twist
Sacramento's thriving craft beer scene and easy access to top wine producers make it a tasting tour hotspot, with dog-friendly taprooms and Instagram-worthy murals along the way. Start at the Hyatt Centric Downtown and explore patio breweries within walking distance.
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The ulti-mutt in farm-fresh dining in Sacramento
Sacramento earns its title as America's Farm-to-Fork Capital with 1.5 million acres of farmland and incredible local chefs serving fresh, seasonal ingredients. The dog-friendly Citizen Hotel puts you two blocks from Capitol Park and steps from Michelin-recommended dining.
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On the go in pup-centric Sacramento
Sacramento's parks and multi-use trails are a dog lover's paradise, from the 32-mile American River Parkway to the tree-lined paths around Capitol Park. The Kimpton Sawyer Hotel welcomes dogs with no pet fees, no size limits, and evening wine receptions.
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Big Bear Lake warms up: events for 2026
Big Bear Lake kicks off 2026 with the Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special Olympics on April 18, followed by the third annual Puptopia Festival on July 25. Expect agility courses, costume contests, and a full day of tail-wagging fun at…
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Spring pet-friendly activities in Yosemite Mariposa County
Spring in Yosemite Mariposa County brings swelling rivers, wildflowers, and fresh scents that delight dogs on paved paths where leashed pets are welcome. See Bridalveil Fall at peak flow, explore Sierra National Forest trails, and discover dog-friendly towns beyond the…
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Escape your ordinary in Greater Palm Springs
In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation to adventure for you and your dog, with scenic hiking trails, sun-drenched patios, and a variety of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation…
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4-day dog-friendly autumn itinerary
This four-day autumn itinerary covers Yosemite Mariposa County's best dog-friendly adventures, from historic foothill towns to scenic trails inside and beyond the park. Visit in fall for lower prices, fewer crowds, and golden light on the valley's iconic granite walls.
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Four-legged fun: A dog-friendly itinerary
A three-day dog-friendly Greater Palm Springs itinerary across the nine-city region. Trail mornings at Homestead and Whitewater, afternoons on El Paseo, breweries and patios, plus desert-travel tips for keeping your pup safe in the sun.
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Enjoy dog-friendly dining
From Boozehounds' dog menu to sunny brunch patios, Greater Palm Springs serves up dog-friendly dining where pups are always welcome and tails wag as happily as forks. From hearty brunches to savory dinners—and even treats for your buddy—these dog-friendly restaurants…
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Paws for a pint: Explore dog-friendly breweries
Greater Palm Springs breweries welcome dogs with shady patios, water bowls, and ice-cold pints, making them perfect spots to hang with your canine bestie. Pups, pints, and great vibes. These Greater Palm Springs breweries are perfect for savoring every sip…
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Dog-friendly fall fun in Greater Palm Springs
This fall, Greater Palm Springs is the perfect playground for you and your four-legged travel buddy. Explore dog-friendly breweries, dine on sunny patios where wagging tails are always welcome, and follow a curated itinerary for the ultimate getaway.
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Four-paw fun, from harvest into the holidays
Fall on California's North Coast shines at the Stanford Inn and throughout Mendocino County, with Harvest Mendocino events from late October through mid-November. Sample regional bounty, ride the Mushroom Train through redwoods, and stay for holiday sparkle into the new…
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