Find California dog-friendly beaches, rivers and lakes blog stories.

DogTrekker dogs LOVE going to the beach! Check out our stories about dog-friendly beaches, rivers and lakes in California. We also have tips and tricks for staying safe while enjoying the salty air and surf! So go ahead, plan that trip – your pup will thank you! Happy trekking! 🐾🐕

An unforgettable ride in Mendocino County

Kayla ready to board the Skunk Train. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

Mendocino County is known for its breathtaking beaches, wineries and even some redwood forests. Hop aboard a historic train with your pup. This adventure takes “Wanna go for a ride?” to epic excitement levels. The century-and-a-half-old Skunk Train starts in Fort Bragg and winds through redwood groves, panoramic trestles and along a stunning river canyon. Pups are welcome on both open and clos Read more.

Brews and views in Humboldt County

Trinidad, Humboldt County. Photo by Humboldt County Visitors Bureau.

Humboldt County is best known for its Redwood National & State Parks, freshwater lagoons and rivers, beautiful beaches, and Bigfoot. Whether your BFF (Best Furry Friend) is a forest explorer, a river runner, or a beach babe, Humboldt County has everything for the perfect pet-friendly adventures. Read more.

Get outdoors with your California pup today!

Let’s get out there and enjoy the fresh air with our furry best friends! Exploring the great outdoors is an amazing experience that both people and pups love, and having … Continued Read more.

Top dog-friendly beaches in California

Fort Funston Coastal Sunset. Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California, USA.

Fort Funston Beach

California is a paradise for both humans and their furry friends. With its sunny beaches, scenic parks, and endless outdoor activities, this state is the perfect destination for a dog-friendly … Continued Read more.

Favorite San Diego County beaches: Del Mar Beach and La Jolla Cove

Wild brown California pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) in the La Jolla cove near San Diego.

Del Mar Beach and La Jolla Cove are two of Southern California’s most beautiful and famous dog-friendly beaches. Located just a short drive from San Diego, these beaches offer a … Continued Read more.

We love California State Parks

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash.

California State Parks offer a variety of outdoor activities for both humans and their furry friends. From scenic hikes to beachfront adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, including dogs. Read more.

Happy New Year from DogTrekker.com

Silhouette dog and young man jumping from 2022 to 2023 at cliff

The new year is like a blank book, and the pen is in your hand. Or, maybe it’s in the paw of your four-legged best friend. However you document your 2023 travel aspirations and dreams, you can count on DogTrekker.com. Read more.

Best dog-friendly lakes in California

Looking for a great place to take your furry friend for a swim? Look no further! California is home to many beautiful lakes that are perfect for dogs. Read more.

Pets welcome here: Santa Cruz (video)

From towering redwood groves to the surf-friendly shores of Santa Cruz County, California, see what makes this quintessential beach town so pet-friendly with Pets Welcome Here! Read more.

Pet-friendly adventures in Santa Cruz (video)

Tag along with Skyler the surfing dog as he sniffs out dog-friendly beaches, restaurants and hotels in Santa Cruz County. Read more.

Action packed fun: Play like a local in Bass Lake, CA (video)

"Play Like A Local" all seasons on beautiful Bass Lake. Check out how the locals do it. Boat it, hike it or bike it, there are so many ways to enjoy Bass Lake. Read more.

Dog days of summer (video)

The adventures of our friends Lily and Chloe rafting on the Russian River. Read more.

Mammoth Lakes is the ultimate pup-cation

Photo by Visit Mammoth.

You know that awesome spinning in circles routine your pup does before going on walks or getting a treat? It’s going to happen a lot in Mammoth Lakes. Read more.

Paddleboard with your dog at Bass Lake (video)

Bass Lake in Madera County, 35 miles from the front gate of Yosemite, is a great place to paddleboard with your dog. Play like a local at Bass Lake! Read more.

Bass Lake video

Dogs and people can play like locals at Bass Lake, less then 20 miles from the front gate of Yosemite. Read more.

The ultimate doggie treat: a Mammoth Lakes adventure

Photo by Visit Mammoth.

Chances are your dog loves to Visit Mammoth as much as you do, if not more. As Fido watches you pack the car with hiking, fishing and bike gear he anxiously waits for his dog bowl and bed to be put in the trunk. Read more.

Water Dog Sea Cave & River Dog Packages

Your dog deserves a vacation too! The Little River Inn is rolling out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged companions with their dog kayaking packages. Read more.

Fort Bragg: Affordable and uniquely dog-friendly

Northern California is known for dog-friendly adventures, and one destination really rolls out the red carpet for pups: Mendocino County. Coastal Fort Bragg is a great basecamp for exploring the region. You’ll find affordable nightly rates, modest pet fees, and standout amenities for furry family members at all three Beachcomber Hotel Group properties. Read more.

Dogs take a bite out of the National Park Service

Olive at Baker Beach, San Francisco. Photo by Eric Y.

Beaches and trails that were formally open to dogs, both leashed and unleashed, have tightened those leashes by restricting or have even banned access. Read more.

Cruising for history and scenery in Santa Cruz County

Engineer-in-training on Roaring Camp Railroad. Photo by Visit Santa Cruz.

Roaring Camp Railroads, based out of Felton in Santa Cruz County, provides more than just a dog-friendly ride. The company’s Redwood Forest Steam Trains roll on a narrow-gauge track once used to haul giant redwood logs from the forest. They cruise now on 75-minute trips from Roaring Camp to Bear Mountain, where a picnic stop and hiking trails await. Read more.