Dog-Friendly Camping in Northern California

Get close to nature with your favorite canine in tow at the numerous Sonoma County campgrounds that welcome your four-legged friend. Rules and regulations vary, but typically include keeping Fido on a leash during the day and inside your tent or RV at night.

Here’s a quick overview of where to enjoy pet-friendly camping in Sonoma Wine County.

California State Parks in Sonoma County

Dogs on leashes (no longer than six feet) are allowed in most state campgrounds, except those designated “environmental.” With the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed inside park buildings, on most beaches, or on trails unless otherwise designated.

Sonoma County Regional Parks

Most campgrounds in the regional park system allow dogs on a leash and may have a nominal fee per pet for overnight camping (reservations required). Here are some favorite regional parks with dog-friendly campsites in Sonoma Wine Country.

Spring Lake Park, Santa Rosa

This park features a campground nestled in an oak woodland. Dogs are allowed on a leash, except at the summer swimming lagoon, but each September, Spring Lake hosts Water Bark, where dogs play off-leash and splash in the water. The lagoon has a sandy beach, a snack shack, and picnic sites with lawns shaded by redwood trees.

Doran Regional Park, Bodega Bay

Featuring a 2-mile stretch of beach and over 120 year-round campsites, you and your dogs (on leash) will love this scenic spot on Sonoma County’s coast. Three camping areas neighbor either the Bodega Harbor or the jetty, with access to the beach along the majestic Pacific Ocean.

Gualala Point Park, Gualala

This small, forested campground along the Gualala River has sites for tents, trailers, and RVs with trails leading to coastal bluffs and the beach. Dogs are welcome on leash. The nearby oceanfront park is where the river meets the sea with an estuary and expansive beach. The park visitor center is open most weekends.

Private Campgrounds

Most of Sonoma County’s private campgrounds allow dogs, but be sure to double-check and ask questions before booking, in case the situation changes. Here’s a look at what’s in store for Fido at a few favorites:

Cloverdale Wine Country KOA Camping Resort, Cloverdale

This award-winning campground has campsites and deluxe cabins and welcomes most dogs on a leash (six feet or less). Confirm with the resort, as breed restrictions may apply. This campground offers a pool and spa, a nature trail, a fishing pond, paddleboats, and a playground. Lake Sonoma and the Russian River are nearby.

Ocean Cove Campground, Jenner

Camp at this small sheltered cove along the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by state and county parks. Dogs on leash are welcome for a small nightly fee. There’s a store, a boat launch, and an opportunity to book private events. RVs, tents, and day-use visitors are welcome typically April through November (check the website).

Casini Ranch Family Campground, Duncans Mills

This family-friendly, pet-friendly campground along the Russian River welcomes dogs (kept inside at night) in your RV, family cottage, or tent. Two on-site dog parks offer off-leash fun. Enjoy riverfront access for tubing, kayaking, and fishing. Amenities include playgrounds, bikes, hiking trails, and a general store. Activities like ice cream socials and beach bonfires are typically offered daily (June through August) and on weekends (May to October).

Porto Bodega RV Park, Bodega Bay

This family-friendly RV park welcomes dogs on a leash and features a designated dog walking area. Waterfront RV sites are located near a marina with guest docks, a boat launch, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, strolling the beach, and bird-watching. There’s a clubhouse, a book library, and nearby trails to explore.

Sonoma Raceway Campground, Sonoma

This campground is open during major races at Sonoma Raceway, and pets are welcome to camp with you (only service dogs are permitted to enter the raceway). Camp in the heart of NASCAR and Drag Racing action as sites provide views of nearly the entire course and prime spots positioned along the raceway.

Find more ideas for you and your dog in Sonoma Wine Country:

• Dog-Friendly Hikes in Sonoma County Your Pup Will Love
• Pet-Friendly: Where to Go With Your Pet in Sonoma County.
• Sonoma County Parks to Walk Your Dog

Discover a complete listing of Sonoma County Campgrounds & RV Parks.

Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come. Check out our page on Sustainable Travel, and look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.

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Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez