Lodging and Camping Blog
The DogTrekker.com research and editorial teams are experts at California dog travel, with great stories about the best lodging and camping places across the state to stay where your dogs are as welcome as you are. Get the scoop on dog-friendly hotels and lodging, from luxury resorts to economical motels, rustic cabins to campgrounds, vacation rentals to B&B’s.
Family Dog Rescue: A Sonoma haven for special dogs
Family Dog Rescue in Sonoma is a sanctuary for dogs with special needs, founded by cancer survivor Angela Padilla. The nonprofit provides medical care, behavioral training, and a personalized adoption process for dogs that other shelters often overlook.
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Yosemite and Mariposa County: Awesome dog-friendly guide
Mariposa County near Yosemite is packed with dog-friendly adventures, from the Wawona Meadow Loop and South Fork Trail to pet-welcoming restaurants, historic lodges and even a ghost town tour you can enjoy with your pup.
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Say cheers to pup-friendly tasting rooms
Sacramento's craft beer and wine scene is surprisingly dog-friendly. From Track 7 Brewing and Urban Roots downtown to Scribner Bend Vineyards in the Delta, taprooms and tasting rooms across the region welcome leashed pups.
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Discover dog-friendly Pleasant Hill
Pleasant Hill in Contra Costa County offers dog-friendly wineries, off-leash parks, scenic trails and a welcoming downtown with patio dining. Nearby regional parks and nature preserves round out a perfect East Bay outing with your pup.
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Canine-centered and eco-friendly at heart
Sustainability defines the Stanford Inn experience, from biodynamic gardens and plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant to environmental workshops and wellness programs. Dogs are welcome throughout, with organic treats and a staff that genuinely loves four-legged guests.
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The ultimate doggie treat: A Mammoth Lakes adventure
Mammoth Lakes is pure dog paradise, from the sandy shores of Horseshoe Lake to scenic trails through lodgepole pine forests. Pack up the dog bowl and treat your pup to the ultimate Eastern Sierra adventure.
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The perfect pairing of rest and relaxation
The Stanford Inn pairs ocean-view suites and wood-burning fireplaces with a dog-welcoming atmosphere on the Mendocino coast. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, a heated saltwater pool and easy access to coastal trails and beaches.
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Activities in Sacramento’s big backyard
Sacramento sits within easy reach of Folsom Lake, Apple Hill wineries, Gold Country, and the Sacramento River Delta. These day-trip destinations offer hiking, paddling, seasonal tastings, and plenty of dog-friendly stops along the way.
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Day 4: The dog-friendly delights of Highway 128
Highway 128 winds through Mendocino's Anderson Valley past dog-friendly wineries, farmstead cheese stops, and craft breweries. Tasting rooms hand out treats, and spots like Pennyroyal Farm even feature sheep-herding border collies.
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Water fun and wineries in Lake County
Lake County, two hours north of San Francisco, blends water fun, wine tasting and small-town charm around Clear Lake. Bring your dog to paddle, hike, visit dog-friendly wineries and stay at lakeside lodges.
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Was Calistoga really founded by a dog?
Calistoga's founding story features Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland, Leonitus, who helped shape the town into a thriving resort community. Today, pet-friendly inns, wine tasting rooms and restaurants carry on that dog-welcoming tradition in Napa Valley.
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Mend your mind and thrill your dog in Mendocino County
Mendocino County's 12 wine-growing regions produce standout wines along Highways 101 and 128. Dogs are welcome at nearly every winery, tasting is often free, and the vibe is refreshingly casual. Plan a trek from Hopland to Anderson Valley and beyond.
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The East Bay SPCA Growl Meow & Wine silent auction is live
The East Bay SPCA's Growl Meow and Wine silent auction features hundreds of packages, from hotel stays to sustainable dog gear. All proceeds support the organization's mission of keeping pets and people together.
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Top Mendocino picks for waves and wine
Mendocino County pairs stunning Pacific coastline with dog-friendly adventures like kayaking, Skunk Train rides through redwoods, botanical garden strolls, and winery visits. The Little River Inn makes an ideal pup-welcoming basecamp.
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Surf towns and sand on the Central Coast
Hit the road along California's Central Coast with your dog, from Santa Cruz beaches and Cannery Row patios to off-leash Carmel Beach and Pismo's pup-friendly lighthouse suites. Sun, surf, and tail wags await.
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Five great California destinations for you and your dog
From the off-leash beaches of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the trails of Yosemite and Big Bear Lake, California is packed with dog-welcoming destinations. Here are five top spots where your pup will feel right at home.
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Tehama County: Fresh fun in California
Tehama County rolls out the red carpet for dogs just 90 miles north of Sacramento. Hike forest trails along Mill Creek, stroll Sacramento River paths in Red Bluff, and taste wines at Burnsini Vineyards.
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How to pick a dog-friendly motel: Are they really dog-friendly?
Not all pet-friendly motels truly welcome dogs. Learn how to spot the real deal by checking reviews, comparing fees, assessing on-site amenities and evaluating staff attitudes before booking your next trip with your pup.
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Happy New Year
Ring in the new year with fresh dog-friendly travel plans across California. DogTrekker.com has been revamped to help you find hikes, beaches, wineries, hotels, and more to enjoy with your furry family members throughout the state.
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Pawsport 2024: Sip some wine, support Napa Humane
Napa Humane's Pawsport returns in 2024 as a month-long wine tasting event. For $60, enjoy 2-for-1 tastings at participating wineries, dog treats, retail discounts and more while supporting life-saving programs for Napa Valley companion animals.
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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.
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Vineyard views & wine-loving woofs
Glamping in California wine country means safari tents along the Russian River, luxury cottages in Paso Robles and campgrounds in the Santa Ynez Valley. Many nearby wineries welcome leashed dogs for tastings, treats and vineyard strolls.
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Paws-itively perfect resort packages
Little River Inn's Water Dog Package bundles a two-night stay with your choice of dog-friendly sea cave kayaking or a Big River canoe trip, plus a dinner voucher and pet goodie bag. Available May through September on the Mendocino coast.
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Stanford Inn: #1 for health and happiness
Happiness and health are woven into every stay at the Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast. Expect plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, wellness workshops, ocean views and four state parks within two miles.
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