Big Bear Lake | DogTrekker

Introducing the DogTrekker Southern California portal

DogTrekker's new SoCal Portal showcases Southern California's best dog-friendly places to stay, play, hike, dine, and splash, from laid-back beach towns to high-desert escapes. Sunshine, surf, mountains and deserts—Southern California is a dog lover's dream. DogTrekker.com's brand-new SoCal Portal pulls…

Big Bear Lake: mountain fun with your pup

Big Bear Lake is a tail-wagging alpine getaway just hours from Southern California, with forested trails, a flat shoreline path, and dog-friendly boat rentals on the lake. Crisp mountain air and laid-back charm make it an ideal escape for dogs…

Big Bear Lake pet-friendly lodging for every travel tribe

Big Bear Lake has dog-friendly lodging for every type of traveler, from family cabins with full kitchens to romantic retreats with hot tubs and lake views. Pet fees and policies vary, so call ahead to confirm before you book.

Wagging tails and water play in Big Bear Lake

Fall at Big Bear Lake means fewer crowds, crystal-clear water and prime fishing season. Bring your pup along for kayaking, pontoon cruises, shoreline casting and sunset picnics on the 22 miles of scenic alpine shoreline.

Fall trails and starry skies in Big Bear Lake

Autumn turns Big Bear Lake's trails into a canvas of golden aspens and mountain color. With over 100 miles of hiking routes and stargazing after dark, fall is the best season to hit the trails with your dog.

Guide to the best dog parks in Southern California

Southern California's best dog parks range from Hollywood Hills hikes at Runyon Canyon to off-leash beach romps at Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach. This north-to-south guide covers urban hideaways, oceanfront escapes and mountain vistas for every pup.

8 dog-friendly lakes near Southern California

When Southern California heats up, head to these eight dog-friendly lakes within three hours of the city. From Castaic Lake's golden foothills to Big Bear's alpine waters, each spot offers shoreline access and cool relief for overheated pups.

California’s new dog-friendly rules will blow your mind

California's dog-friendly travel scene expanded dramatically in 2025, with new CDC travel regulations, luxury hotel pet packages in Napa and San Diego, expanded airport relief areas, and tech tools that simplify planning trips with your pup. California's reputation as a…

Puptopia Festival: Big Bear’s free dog-friendly summer event

The Big Bear Puptopia Festival on July 26 is a free day of dog-friendly fun featuring a giant Pawground, stunt dog shows, agility courses, a grooming Spaw, and vendors selling gourmet treats.

California’s best dog-friendly sports bars

Catch the big game with your dog at these 10 California sports bars, from Riddick's in Redding to spots in Big Bear, Fort Bragg and South Lake Tahoe. Few things are better than catching the big game with good friends…

Paw-some events for the dog days of summer

Pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California this summer and fall. From Puptopia in Big Bear to Bark & Meow in Berkeley and winery fundraisers in Napa, these events bring dog lovers together while supporting rescue and animal welfare groups.

California’s top tail-wagging destinations: Adventure awaits

A south-to-north road trip through California's best dog-friendly destinations, from Ocean Beach in San Diego and Runyon Canyon in LA to Big Bear Lake, Carmel Beach and beyond. Each stop pairs off-leash fun with pet-welcoming hotels and cafes.