Top 10 Pet-Friendly Adventures in South Lake Tahoe

Let’s face it: dogs love to be by their owner’s side, especially when the family hops into a car for a journey. After all, these faithful companions make the best and cutest travel buddies.

The statistics don’t lie; as of 2025, 70% of US Households hold at least one pet, 78% travel with their pet, and over half (60%) of pet owners take their furry friends with them when they travel. At RnR, we see this in real time! More and more of our guests are arriving with these beloved family members, and as a result, an increasing number of our vacation rental homes have become pet-friendly to keep up with the times. 

A dog-friendly vacation used to be the exception, but now it’s the rule. Because, as we like to say, dogs rule! We have over 40 dog-friendly homes within our portfolio, because our owners know that families are incomplete without our furry friends.

After all, South Lake Tahoe is a wonderful pet-friendly destination to explore, and it would be a shame to leave your pet behind while you do it! What pet-friendly activities are there in South Lake Tahoe, you might ask? Allow us to share!

These are the Top 10 pet-friendly adventures in South Tahoe:

Mount Tallac 

For the best views of the lake, a hike here offers the most stunning scenery. This is one of the longer, more challenging trails at more than 10 miles at its shortest point. If you choose to tackle this, you and your pup will need plenty of water for the journey to the top.

Van Sickle Bi-State Park 

If you’re looking for similar vistas to Mt. Tallac but with a less intense hike, this is the perfect choice. The Van Sickle Trail eventually connects with the Tahoe Rim Trail, allowing you to access much more scenery. Hike up to the waterfall or continue up for some bouldering with a stellar view. This park is great for dogs of all sizes.

Bijou Community Park

The local gem has two fenced-off areas specifically for dogs — one with plenty of room to run wild, and one with obstacles and different agility course features for dog training. Let them loose off leash for a while and take advantage of the rest of the park that highlights a basketball court, a bike park/track, volleyball courts, a concrete skateboard park, an incredible disc golf course (with over 30 holes), and even a gazebo area.

Dog-Friendly Beaches in South Lake Tahoe

Not every South Tahoe patch of sand is dog-friendly, but the best place to start is Kiva Beach. Not only will you have wide open spaces to roam, but this spot offers some seriously astounding views where the marsh meets the lake, looking right up at the majestic Mount Tallac.

Regan Beach is another top choice. Dogs are permitted off-leash here but must be under strict voice control at all times. Four-legged visitors are only allowed in the dog water park section near the entrance to the park (on the east end), where the water is shallow. South Lake Tahoe’s oldest beach facility, Regan, offers great views of the lake.

Dine at a Dog-Friendly Restaurant

In South Tahoe, it’s easy to find restaurants that accommodate your tail-wagging companions. Topping our list of staff favorites is MacDuff’s Public House, a proper local spot that offers craft beers and fine wines to complement freshly homemade Scottish dishes.

In Heavenly Village, Base Camp Pizza Co. is a dog-friendly restaurant with live music and outdoor dining. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash, and keep in mind that they must be well behaved if they’d like to join for dinner.

Go Back in Time

One of the most enjoyable South Tahoe attractions is Tallac Historic Site, a collection of late 19th-century summer estate homes and outbuildings about 7 miles west of the Stateline. Leashed dogs are welcome, and visiting on living-history days is especially recommended.

Go Shopping For Your Pet

Forgot to bring pet food or want to grab some dog treats for your hike? Go to DogDogCat, a “petique” extravaganza, inside the shopping center next to the Heavenly Village. They carry tons of natural foods, toys, and gear. Stop in for everything you’d need to keep your dog stylish and equipped for whatever adventure lies ahead.

Pamper Your Pup at the Dog Spa

After a day filled with outdoor recreation, put your pup in the lap of luxury with a spa treatment at Hair of The Dog Pet Concierge in South Tahoe. Focused on giving your dog a fun-filled vacation while you enjoy one of your own, the business ensures that your pet experiences a happy, healthy, and safe environment. It offers daycare and overnight options, an open play area, climate-controlled indoor rest and sleeping areas, complete grooming services, companion walks, massages, acupuncture/acupressure, and even pet chauffeur services!

Pick Up Some Pet-Friendly Treats!

Afterwards, pick up some food and treats for your furry friend at the Pet Station on Lake Tahoe Blvd. Pet Station sells many different brands of high-quality dog and cat food, along with a complete line of supplies and accessories for dogs, cats, small animals, reptiles, birds, and fresh and saltwater fish. 

Relax with Your Dog At Home

There’s nothing like enjoying the serenity of a lakefront home with your pup. And you can do just that when you book your stay with us! Lie back on the couch and soak in some relaxation after a long itinerary of adventuring. You can’t beat it!

Book Your Pet-Friendly Adventure in South Lake Tahoe Directly with RnR!

Booking a pet-friendly vacation in South Lake Tahoe with RnR Vacation Rentals means not only will you have a memorable stay in one of the most beautiful places in the world, but you'll also enjoy the peace of mind knowing your pet is welcome and well-accommodated.

So what are you waiting for? Whether you’re looking for a home with a private hot tub or a lakefront view, you’ll find the best fit when you stay with us. Browse our available pet-friendly South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals now and book your stay directly with RnR!