Hendy Woods State Park

In this fully fenced area, dogs are allowed to play off-leash. It has shade, benches, water, and a dog waste disposal area.

Dog-friendly Lake Mendocino is a man-made lake located north-east of Ukiah, California, built by a dam over the Russian River coming out of the Potter Valley. There are 300 campsites in the area, including boat-in camping, as well as 15 miles of hiking and bike trails. Be aware that some of the paths are located within a 700-acre wilderness area, so keep an eye out for wildlife. Barbeques and covered picnic shelters are also available. At all times, Petzooie must be leashed.

Pets are welcome to accompany you for a modest fee at this public park with clean facilities and restaurants, as long as they remain on a leash.

The bike and boat rental shop Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too in Mendocino, CA, welcomes on-leash pets with reasonable rates and a pleasant staff. They even have dog lifejackets! Boat rentals start at $35 per person for up to three hours and $50 per person for more than three hours at the shop, which is open every day. Children between the ages of 6 and 17 pay $15 for up to three hours and $20 for more than three hours. Dogs and children under the age of six are free. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, guided tours are also available.

Pets are welcome at Russian Gulch State Park. This park, which is two miles north of Mendocino, features a three-mile lush canyon, windswept headlands, and gorgeous beaches. West of Highway 1, dogs are allowed in the campground, beach, and trails. Fern Canyon Trail and trails east of Highway 1 are dog-free zones.

MacKerricher State Park allows dogs on a leash. Pets are not allowed on Virgin Creek Beach, Ten Mile Beach's northern half, the Seal Rocks harbor seal pup nursery area, or the Surfwood Walk-In campground. In most other parts of the park, you should be able to find Petzooie. Camping for a few nights is one of the most popular activities. The campgrounds are brimming with magnificent wild gardens, some of which look out over the water. You should check with MacKerricher State Park to see whether they are open on the days you want to go.