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.

Sit. Stay. Shop. at Victoria Gardens

Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga is the perfect open-air destination for shopping and dining with your pup. Dog-friendly patios at restaurants like The State and Paul Martin's serve comfort food and farm-to-table dishes while you enjoy the day together.

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Plan ahead for a pawsome Yosemite adventure in 2025

Summer 2025 brings a temporary vehicle reservation system to Yosemite National Park during peak dates. A $2 pass from Recreation.gov is required for daytime entry, but overnight guests are exempt. Plan ahead and your dog-friendly adventure stays on track.

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Hit the road for Sacramento, the ultimate dog-friendly basecamp

Sacramento's central location makes it a perfect launchpad for Northern California adventures with your dog. Riverfront strolls, dog-welcoming patios, plus easy day trips through Gold Country, Amador and El Dorado wineries, and the High Sierra from a single capital-city basecamp.

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High Sierra escapes from Sacramento

From Sacramento, you can reach Lake Tahoe's alpine beaches and mountain parks in about two hours. Let pups splash at Kiva Beach, hike Van Sickle Bi-State Park, paddle Echo Lakes or grab a post-hike pint at FiftyFifty Brewing in Truckee.

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Day tripping through Gold Country

Gold Country towns east of Sacramento roll out the welcome mat for dogs. Hike wildflower-lined trails at Auburn State Recreation Area, walk through history at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and stroll the 35-mile El Dorado Trail.

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Wild Blue canine camp is calling!

Wild Blue Dogs hosts weeklong sleepaway camps on the shores of Lake Tahoe for you and your pup. The all-inclusive experience features hikes, swims, campfires and training, and every dollar raised goes toward canine cancer treatment and research.

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GO, hit the trails in GOCAL!

The Greater Ontario region of Southern California offers dog-friendly trails for every skill level. Walk the paved Pacific Electric Trail, roam Red Hill Community Park's off-leash area, or hike Mount Rubidoux for panoramic views.

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This Earth Day, DogTrekker spotlights stewardship

Sustainability helped spark DogTrekker.com. Before launching the website, around Earth Day 2011, we sent a newsletter called “Leave Only Pawprints.”

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Top tips for safe Earth Day adventures

This Earth Day and every day, follow these five tips for keeping your dog safe on the trail. Plan ahead, respect wildlife, practice good trail etiquette, pack out all waste and support businesses that champion environmental stewardship across California.

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Nature rules in Yosemite Mariposa County

Yosemite Mariposa County's Nature Rules program helps visitors protect this extraordinary landscape. Travel responsibly by sticking to pet-friendly trails, arriving early, packing out all waste and using eco-friendly sunblock to safeguard the park's wildlife and waterways.

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Care for Big Bear

Care For Big Bear promotes responsible tourism in the San Bernardino National Forest, where more than 3 million visitors play each year. Stay on trails, respect wildlife, and support local green businesses.

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Explore Yosemite Mariposa County with your furry friend

Mariposa County is home to Yosemite National Park and a wealth of pet-friendly lodging, dining and photo opportunities. Bring your dog to experience the valley's iconic views, Gold Rush-era towns, and trails in the surrounding Sierra National Forest.

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The mountains are barking from Big Bear Lake

The snow is melting and spring is blooming in beautiful Big Bear Lake. Trails teem with life, the lake beckons paddlers, and patio dining season buzzes. Our guide to paddling, hiking, dining, lodging, and the Care For Big Bear stewardship…

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Say “bone-appetit” to Big Bear

Big Bear's restaurant scene warmly welcomes dogs on patios throughout the village. Try dog-safe donuts at Dank Donuts, burgers and brews at The Bone Yard, wine and bites at Barrel 33, or Mexican fare at Azteca Grill.

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Top 10 dog-friendly activities in and around Fort Bragg

The city of Fort Bragg released its top 10 dog-friendly activities list, and it's a great starting point for planning a coastal trip with your dog. Ten picks from Glass Beach and MacKerricher State Park to Pomo Bluffs, the Skunk…

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Dog-friendly adventures await at Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, just 100 miles from Los Angeles, is a top dog-friendly getaway in the San Bernardino National Forest. Paddle the seven-mile lake, hike over 100 miles of trails, then unwind at a pet-welcoming cabin or lakeside restaurant.

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DogTrekker’s official spring/summer event guide is live!

DogTrekker's spring and summer 2025 event guide highlights pup-friendly fundraisers across California. From Pasadena Humane's Wiggle Waggle Walk to the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and Woofstock Chico, your participation supports rescue efforts that change animal lives.

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Escape into nature at Stone Ranch and Mendocino Grove

Mendocino Stone Ranch is a 50-acre retreat with art installations, redwood trails and unique lodging options including a yurt with ocean views. Nearby Mendocino Grove hosts dog-friendly group events amid stately forests.

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