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.
Tenaya Lodge’s four-paw accommodations
Fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy at Tenaya Lodge. If you’re planning to visit Yosemite National Park, including Badger Pass and other areas in the park that have restrictions on dogs,
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Tenaya Lodge with the kids
Not surprisingly, a place as big as Yosemite is home to plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for children of all ages. Of course, there’s the seemingly endless natural beauty
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Poop on the trail: a note from Camp California
Dog waste on hiking trails is a bigger problem than most people realize, with millions of tons produced each year. Camp California shares practical tips for packing out pet waste and keeping trails clean for everyone.
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Dog-camping motto: Be prepared
Adding a dog to your camping trip means extra planning, from travel logistics to bear-proofing your campsite. Here are practical tips on containment, crating, leash laws, wildlife safety, and assembling a dog first-aid kit for the outdoors.
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Bark for some of our favorite dog-friendly campgrounds
From Mammoth Lakes to Lake Tahoe to the Highway 88 corridor, California offers incredible dog-friendly campgrounds in diverse settings. Here are some of our favorite spots to pitch a tent, park an RV, or rent a cabin with your pup.
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How to snag a dog-friendly camping rez
Snagging a dog-friendly campsite in California takes some strategy. From Reserve America to Recreation.gov to glamping options, here's where to search for reservations at public, private, and luxury campgrounds that welcome four-legged guests.
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By land or by lake: Redding as a basecamp
Redding is the gateway to Upstate California, where rugged mountains, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls await you and your dog. Hike the Sacramento River Trail, boat on Shasta Lake, or tackle the three McCloud River falls.
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Redding hotels for hounds and the humans who follow
Redding's hotels go above and beyond for canine guests, with amenities from dog beds to dedicated pet menus. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge even serves frozen desserts for dogs, while the Best Western Plus offers affordable pet-friendly rooms.
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First time paws-ing in Redding?
New to Redding? Start at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center, then walk the Sundial Bridge over the Sacramento River. From Whiskeytown Falls to botanical gardens to local breweries, here are our top picks for first-time visitors with dogs.
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Raise a glass to the dog-friendly Delta
Just south of Sacramento, the Clarksburg wine region along the Sacramento River Delta offers dog-friendly tasting rooms, great food, and a slower pace. From Scribner Bend Vineyards to the Old Sugar Mill, bring your pup and a picnic.
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Dogs take on the National Park Service
Dog access to California's parks and beaches has come under increasing pressure in recent years. The fight over the Golden Gate National Recreation Area showed what's at stake. Here's how responsible dog owners can protect outdoor access for all.
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Nervous about your dog on a train? Start small
Not sure how your dog will handle a train ride? The miniature steam train at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley makes a great test run. The park itself offers swimming, hiking, and a botanical garden across more than 2,000 acres.
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Wag your way through the Central Valley
California's Central Valley holds surprises for dogs and train lovers alike. Ride vintage electric cars at the Western Railway Museum near Suisun City, or hop aboard the Sacramento River Fox Train for a leisurely round trip through Gold Rush country.
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All aboard for Gold Country history
Tuolumne County's Gold Country is home to two must-visit heritage railroads. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park features Hollywood's famous Movie Railroad, while the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers narrated steam train rides near Yosemite.
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Cruising for history and scenery in Santa Cruz County
Roaring Camp Railroads in Santa Cruz County sends steam trains through towering redwoods on tracks once used for logging. The 75-minute ride to Bear Mountain includes a picnic stop, and the historic village offers kid-friendly activities and hiking.
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Don’t get skunked by the Skunk Train
The Skunk Train has rolled through Northern California redwood forests for over 130 years, departing from Fort Bragg and Willits. Dogs ride free in open-air cars, taking in views of towering trees, river canyons, and 30 bridges along the way.
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Dog-friendly restaurants and wineries in Gilroy, CA
Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World, boasts a generous lineup of dog-friendly restaurants and wineries. Enjoy al fresco dining and vineyard visits along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail any time of year.
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Dog-friendly hotels and RV parks in Gilroy, CA
Planning a road trip through Gilroy? Several hotels and RV parks welcome dogs, from the Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn to Betabel RV Park with its enclosed off-leash dog area.
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