California’s diverse landscape offers a ton of opportunities for outdoor adventures. If you love camping and want to take your pet on your next adventure, we've got you covered. Imagine how excited your pet would be to explore the great outdoors with you!
Finding campsites that welcome your dog is a top priority if you're a pet parent. As wildlife conservation is one of the main concerns of state parks, there are very strict restrictions for pets. This guide highlights the best dog-friendly campsites in California to help you find the best options for camping with your buddy.
Top Dog-Friendly Campsites in California
1. Lake Tahoe Basin (Northern California)
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Lake Tahoe Basin is one of the most picturesque spots in Northern California. Several campgrounds within the basin are dog-friendly, making it an excellent destination for you and your pet.
Tahoe Valley Campground and Fallen Leaf Campground offer great access to hiking trails and lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for you and your dog to explore. Dogs need to be on a leash, and while certain beach areas are off-limits, there are plenty of pet-friendly trails and scenic spots to enjoy together.
Reviews say that the dog park is large, clean and well-maintained. While there's no additional charge for pets at both campgrounds, there's a limit of up to 2 pets per site. Owners must also pick up after their pets immediately.
The Tahoe Valley Campground allows pets at all sites except cabins and cottages. The Fallen Leaf Campground allows pets at all tent and RV sites, but not in the yurts.
Booking info:
- Fallen Leaf Campground : You'll need to make a reservation via recreation.gov. There are no first-come, first-served options available.
- Tahoe Valley Campground : You can make reservations via ReserveAmerica.
2. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (Central California Coast)
Big Sur’s rugged coastline and towering redwoods make it one of California's most breathtaking camping destinations. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is dog-friendly, though dogs are limited to certain areas like the campground, day-use lots and paved roads. They're allowed on the River Path and Warden's Path, but not on any other trails.
If you're looking for other Big Sur campgrounds that are dog-friendly, Plaskett Creek Campground is an excellent option, with easy access to the beach and scenic coastal views, making it perfect for dogs to explore on a leash.
Booking info: You can make reservations via ReserveCalifornia up to 6 months in advance.
One camper shared some helpful advice for those planning to camp with their dogs:
"This is a beautiful campground with large sites. There are some great walking and hiking spots on the bluffs over the ocean across from the campground, but the trail to the beach was too eroded for us to hike with a dog. Also, be aware that there's no potable water at the campground, which should be made clearer in the campground info online and not just in reviews. Despite these minor issues, we still enjoyed our stay."
3. Yosemite National Park (Central California)
While much of Yosemite National Park has pet restrictions, there are still areas where your dog can enjoy the park with you.
Upper Pines Campground allows pets except in group and horse sites, and several paved paths like Wawona Meadow Loop are dog-friendly. Remember that dogs must always be leashed and stay on paved roads and designated areas, as many backcountry trails are off-limits to pets. If you're looking for a dog-friendly campsite in Yosemite, this is a great option. The park’s stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and forests make it a must-visit.
Booking info: You can make reservations up to 5 months in advance through the official site. As the campground is in Yosemite, there's high demand, and it gets booked in minutes. There are no first-come, first-served options available.
4. Joshua Tree National Park (Southern California)
Joshua Tree National Park offers a unique desert camping experience with its surreal rock formations and starry skies.
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds like Black Rock Campground and Cottonwood Campground. While dogs are not allowed on the park’s backcountry trails, they are allowed on paved roads and campgrounds.
The desert climate can get quite hot, especially if you're visiting off-season, so make sure your dog stays hydrated.
Booking info: October through May is the best season to visit, and you can make reservations via recreation.gov. There are no first-come, first-served options available.
5. Shasta-Trinity National Forest (Northern California)
Located in the northern part of the state, Shasta-Trinity National Forest is a fantastic destination for those who love the outdoors. The forest is home to Lassen National Park and Mount Shasta, both of which offer numerous dog-friendly campgrounds.
Popular campgrounds like Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort feature a dedicated dog park, providing ample space for your dog to play and socialize off-leash.
Another excellent option is Castle Lake Campground, which offers a more secluded setting. Please note that it's a small, primitive campground with no fee or reservations.
Trails surrounding lakes and rivers in this region give dogs plenty of opportunities to swim and roam. Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers some of the best dog-friendly campsites in Northern California. A review from a happy pet parent says that their dogs had an awesome time and were able to run leash-free and swim.
Booking info: Castle Lake Campground requires no fee or reservations. Sites are first-come, first-served. Reservations are required for Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort and can be made on their official website.
Dog-Friendly Beach Camping in California
California’s coastline is a dream for beach lovers. There are several dog-friendly beach campsites if you're planning a trip with your dog.
Doran Regional Park in Sonoma County allows dogs on a leash and offers beach access. Jalama Beach Park in Santa Barbara County is another popular dog-friendly spot. While dogs may not be allowed in some sections, both campgrounds offer great beachside fun for you and your pup.
Booking info:
Doran Regional Park : Reservations are required and can be made up to 12 months in advance via the official website. A fee of $2 per dog will be charged per night.
Jalama Beach Park : Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via the official website. First-come, first-served sites are available.
Wright's Beach Campground (Sonoma Coast State Park):
This campground is literally on the beach! You can walk right out of your tent and onto the sand. Dogs must be leashed in the campground and on the beach. Reviews suggest selecting a beachside campsite ahead of time.
Booking info: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia. Advance bookings recommended for the beach facing sites. Limited first-come, first-served sites are available.
Clam Beach County Park (near McKinleyville):
This park offers a long stretch of beautiful beach with off-leash areas for your dog to run freely. Dogs must be leashed in the campground, but they can play off-leash on the beach. Reviews state that the park is an excellent spot for dogs despite the camping experience being primitive.
Booking info: No reservations needed. All sites are first-come, first-served.
Tips for Camping with Dogs
1. Research Campground Amenities
Some campgrounds go above and beyond for dog owners by offering amenities like dog parks, water stations, and dog-friendly trails. Before booking, check if the campsite offers pet-friendly features that will make your trip more enjoyable.
2. Plan for the Weather
California's weather can vary greatly depending on the region. In coastal areas like Big Sur, temperatures are often cool and foggy, while desert areas like Joshua Tree can experience extreme heat. Always pack extra blankets for your dog, and avoid mid-day hikes in desert environments.
3. Know the Wildlife
California is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and snakes. In areas like Yosemite or Shasta-Trinity, you may encounter bears, so store food securely and keep your dog leashed to avoid unwanted encounters. In desert areas, watch for rattlesnakes, which can be dangerous to curious pets. Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your dog safe.
Packing Essentials
Packing for your camping trip with your dog? Here's a list of essentials you simply can't forget:
- Leash and Harness: Most dog-friendly areas require them to be leashed.
- Collapsible Bowls: They're compact, lightweight, and perfect for food and water on the go.
- Dog Food: Bring enough for the duration of the trip, plus extra in case of delays.
- First-Aid Kit: Pack a kit with first aid essentials like tweezers for ticks, antiseptic wipes, and bandages for paws.
- Dog Bed or Blanket: This is a must have to ensure your dog is comfortable at the campsite, especially if the ground is rocky or cold.
Keeping Your Dog Safe
The wilderness can pose hazards for dogs, such as wildlife encounters, rough terrain, and extreme weather. Always keep an eye on your dog and don't let them wander off, especially in areas with wildlife like bears, coyotes, or snakes.
Bring plenty of water and offer it frequently, especially during hot weather or after long hikes. If you're camping in a desert site, it's highly likely they'll experience dehydration otherwise. If your dog is not accustomed to camping, it’s wise to do a shorter trip first to see how they handle the environment.
Follow Campground Rules
Each campground has its own pet policy, so it’s important to call the campground or familiarize yourself with the rules before your trip. Common requirements include keeping dogs on a leash, cleaning up after them, and ensuring they don’t disturb wildlife or other campers.
Conclusion
If creating unforgettable camping memories with your fur baby is on your bucket list, it's time to tick it off! Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure in the wild, California has the perfect dog-friendly camping spot for you.
FAQs About Dog-Friendly Camping in California
Is there dog-friendly camping in Southern California?
Yes, Southern California offers plenty of dog-friendly campsites, including those in Joshua Tree National Park, Malibu Creek State Park, and San Onofre State Beach. Many campsites in Southern California allow dogs on leashes and provide access to dog-friendly trails.
Where can I find dog-friendly beach camping in California?
Doran Regional Park and Jalama Beach Park are two popular options for dog-friendly beach camping in California. Both offer beautiful coastal settings where dogs are welcome, though leash rules typically apply.
What are some dog-friendly campsites in Northern California?
Northern California has several dog-friendly options, including Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Lake Tahoe Basin, and Mendocino National Forest. These areas offer ample trails, scenic views, and water access for dogs to enjoy.
Are Big Sur campgrounds dog-friendly?
Yes, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park are dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and on certain trails, though some restrictions may apply, so always check specific regulations before your trip.
Can I bring my dog to camp in Yosemite?
Yes, Yosemite National Park allows dogs in certain areas. Upper Pines Campground is one of the dog-friendly campsites. However, many backcountry trails are off-limits to pets, so be sure to review park guidelines.
