Big Bear Lake | DogTrekker

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.

Terrific tree-hugging retreats

Wake up beneath towering trees at these dog-friendly forest glamping spots. From AutoCamp's Airstreams near the Russian River to KOA Ventura Ranch's tricked-out teepees, each property offers trails, fire pits and plenty of room for pups to roam.

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.

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…

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.

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.