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! 🐾🐕

East to the foothills and apples galore

While parts of El Dorado County were impacted by the Caldor Fire in August and September, the Apple Hill Growers region north of Placerville (about 45 minutes from Sacramento on Highway 50) was spared. It’s 50-odd member farms, wineries and other establishments (almost all of them dog-friendly) kicked off the 2021 season in early September with regional events, individual grower events, Read more.

A pedigreed playground for your pup

Maya hiking at Noyo Headlands Park in flowers

Maya hiking at Noyo Headlands Park. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

The active Noyo Harbor fishing village sets an engaging backdrop for a Noyo Harbor Inn stay. Read more.

Redwoods, railroads and Mendocino County magic

Skunk Train. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.

California Western Railroad lines have wound through majestic Mendocino County redwoods for 135 years. Read more.

If it’s summer, it’s splash time with your dog!

Australian shepherd dog runs through the lake

Thousands of splash spots in California await people and pups eager to get wet in the great outdoors. Read more.

Big River beckons at Catch A Canoe

Dog and person on outrigger in Big River

Photo by Catch A Canoe & Bicycles, Too.

There’s something magical about the Big River estuary near Mendocino—and something ingenious about the “canine cruiser” that transports two- and four-legged visitors down the calm and inky river to the sea. Read more.

Water Dog Package at the Little River Inn

Rosie at Little River Inn. Photo by Little River Inn.

The Little River Inn brings back its very popular Water Dog package at the Little River Inn Resort & Spa, perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. You’ll enjoy a two-night stay in a pet-friendly guest room, a Kayak Albion River Nature Tour, a goodie bag with dog treats and info on where to hike and boat with dogs—plus a $120 dinner voucher good for takeout dining and in-per Read more.

Get gushy with your puppy – Redding hikes

Jack Russell Terrier by a waterfall in Redding

OK, so it hasn’t been a wet year. Nevertheless, waterfalls near Redding are still flowing, delectable swimming holes await, Read more.

Activities for every family member at the Stanford Inn

Canoe the Big River. Photo by Catch A Canoe.

With a blufftop location above sparkling Mendocino Bay, the Stanford Inn by the Sea is a convenient home base for adventurers of all ages. Read more.

Lodato Trail

Lodato Trail, courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz Tucked away in the redwoods of Scotts Valley, Lodato is a hidden gem of forested beauty. The entire route clocks in at 1.2-miles and a leisurely stroll will likely take less than 45 minutes (but it is a lot of uphill). Parking is free, and your leashed pups are welcome to enjoy the redwoods by your side. Just mind the poison oak which can creep close to Read more.

Roaring Camp Railroads

Dog posing on the track at Roarding Camp Railroad

Roaring Camp Railroads, courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. Henry Cowell borders Roaring Camp Railroads where dogs are welcome on leash to explore the acres (including trails) of forested land. And for those pooches (or owners) who want to experience the grandeur of the redwoods and mountains but might need some help – hop aboard the train! Yes, your well-behaved pooch can hitch a ride on the st Read more.

West Glenwood Open Space Preserve

West Glenwood Preserve. Paul Zaretsky photo.

West Glenwood Open Space Preserve, story courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. With about four miles of trails, the West Glenwood Preserve is a great choice for hiking adventures with your pooch! Gorgeous vistas of the valley are around every corner and there are a variety of loops to choose from. In the spring, wildflower abound on the rolling hills. A few things to be aware of: the trails are currentl Read more.

Pogonip Open Space

Pogonip Open Space, courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. There are miles of dog-friendly trails and secret treasures to discover at Pogonip Open Space. Leashed pups are welcome on several of the trails, but for an easy stroll with a big payoff, follow the Rincon Trail from the UCSC campus as it slopes downhill to the eastbound Spring Box Trail. A quick stroll along the Spring Box Trail soon leads to an Read more.

Dog-friendly road trip: Highway 1 and Santa Cruz

Dog and people running on the beach in Santa Cruz

Photo by Visit Santa Cruz.

It’s no secret that California Highway 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway) is considered one of the most scenic routes in the country. Read more.

Raving about Redding

Watching the geese at the Sundial Bridge. Photo by Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

March is perhaps the prettiest and most temperate month of the year in Redding, a Northern California city that can warm up in summer. Read more.

Cooper loved to Travel

In his ten years, this Lab/border collie/cattle dog mix traveled to seven states, but most of all he loved going anywhere DogTrekker recommended. Read more.

Time out (with oysters) by the sea

Nick's cove snack with cottages in background

Photo by Nick’s Cove Restaurant & Oyster Bar.

It’s oyster season! And it’s hard to imagine a more ideal place to enjoy a delectable dozen than at Nick’s Cove Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Read more.

Open air dog-friendly activities perfect for social distancing

By now, we all know the drill: wash your hands, cover your face in public, maintain six feet of “social distancing” between yourself and anyone else who is not a member of your household “bubble.” So where does your dog fit in? Right by your side, as always! In Mendocino County, you’ll have access to many activities that let you have fun while still adhering to the gu Read more.

So, What’s to Do With Your Dog in Concord?

The short answer: Lots and lots of things to get tails a-waggin! Start off with a romp at Baldwin Dog Park or the Paw Patch dog park in 126-acre Newhall Community Park, then hit the trails at one of the East Bay Regional Park District preserves just minutes away. Read more.

Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue Vets Save Cali

Black lab from Monterey Bay Lab Retriever rescue

From: Judy Kreger, Founder & CEO, Donate Here! Monterey Bay Lab Rescue is continuing to take in Labs and Lab mixes that need rescue, virus or no virus. Our great fosters are always ready and willing to open their homes and their hearts to welcome in any Lab in need. And our vet continues to provide full vet care for all of our rescues including any surgeries they might require. & Read more.

Seaside Waves and Walks With Your Dog

Dog on the edge of the beach getting splashed by the ocean

Whether your drive all or just some of intoxicating Highway 1 hugging the Mendocino County coast, you’re sure to find many places to pull over and get some sand between your and Buster’s toes. Go slow, stop often and be sure to check out these highlights. Read more.