Dog-Friendly Activities in Desert Center, CA

More than 2,000 dog-friendly acres of natural wonderland await you and your pup at Cattail Cove State Park in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Relax, hike, bird-watch, enjoy the dog park, or have a picnic at this beautiful park on Lake Havasu. Fido must be leashed at all times on the trails, but may be off-leash at the designated dog beach. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the developed beaches for human use.

Calico Ghost Town is a dog-friendly, Old West attraction in Yermo, CA. While visiting this old mining town, visitors can walk through an actual mine, pan for gold, and see the Mystery Shack. Fun-filled for all ages, be it human or dogs. Fido is also welcome inside the saloon, gift shops, and can even take the train ride tour with you! Located within the town, Dorsey's Dog House shop has everything from accessories to healthy snacks and treats.

The dog-friendly Palm Springs Air Museum in Palm Springs, CA, is home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable from aircraft WWII, and the Korea and Vietnam wars. All exhibits in the air-conditioned hangars are rope-free, allowing visitors to get an up-close look at these historical marvels. In addition to the aircraft, exhibits and activities allow visitors of all ages to gain a fresh perspective of World War II. Friendly, leashed dogs are allowed to tour the attractions.

Cap Homme and Ralph Adams Park is a dog-friendly recreational area in Palm Desert, CA. This 27-acre park includes miles of multi-use trails, picnic areas and serves as the trailhead for the Cahuilla Hills Trails System. Check signage for areas that are designated off-leash areas for pups.

Leashed dogs are welcome to join you while you visit the pet-friendly Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs, CA. This historic botanical garden opened in 1938 and features several rare cacti. Visitors can also view crystals, colorful rocks, ancient fossils, pioneer and gold mining relics, and cacti of varying sizes from miniature to giant! Plants are also available for purchase from the nursery.

Idyllwild Nature Center in Idyllwild, CA, is a dog-friendly recreational area where Fido is welcome on the trails on leash. Enjoy hiking, nature programs, picnic areas, guided tours, and more. Various seasonal events are held throughout the year, including the well-known Lemon Lily Restoration Day, Butterfly Daze, Trail of the Acorn Day, and the Wildflower Day. There are day-use admission fees for adults, children, and dogs.

Buckskin Mountain State Park is a dog-friendly recreation area in Parker, AZ. Bring Fido along to see the stunning views of the Colorado River along the Parker strip, an 18-mile stretch between Parker Dam and Headgate Dam. Mountains line the river on both the Arizona and California sides, and the wildlife is as varied as the recreational opportunities along the river. Dogs must be leashed at all times and are welcome on the campgrounds for no additional fee.

The London Bridge, originally built in 1831 to get Londoners across the Thames River in England, was dismantled in the 1960s and reconstructed in Lake Havasu City, AZ! This popular pet-friendly tourist attraction is accessible on foot, meaning you can take Fido for a walk "across the pond" with no international pet passport required!

The Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman, AZ, takes visitors on a historical journey through the iconic highway’s past, from prehistoric trade routes to its cultural impact. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join you in this pet-friendly museum for a unique family experience.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located in Borrego Springs, is the largest state park in California. Although dog-friendly in some areas, pups must be on a leash no longer than six feet and under immediate control. Pets must be in a tent or vehicle during nighttime hours and are not allowed cross-country or on hiking trails. Despite not being able to access the paths, you can still enjoy the rugged landscape formed largely by erosion from rain, snow, ice and wind.

Rotary Dog Park in Bullhead City, AZ, features agility equipment and separate, fenced areas for small and big dogs. The park is right along the river so you can take Fido for a dip in the Colorado River after a long hard day of play.

Whitewater Preserve is a dog-friendly nature area in Whitewater, CA. This large nature reserve is over 2,800 acres near the Whitewater River, and trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. Make sure to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water for you and Fido. Please note that there is no cell service in this area.

The pet-friendly Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs, CA, is used for many different activities, including dog walking. The area offers 22 acres of recreation area, featuring tennis, basketball, and sand volleyball courts, plus picnic tables and grills. Please ensure Fido is leashed at all times.

Dylan's Dog Park at SARA Park in Lake Havasu City, AZ is a recreation area for pups. This 2-acre off-leash dog park has two fenced-in areas, one for small dogs under 25 lbs and one for larger dogs over this weight. Both areas have grass, a pool, walking paths and several covered benches. Please note they are routinely closed Thursday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM for routine maintenance.

Bring Fido to this brightly painted hill that has become a dog-friendly landmark known as Salvation Mountain in Niland, CA. Leashed dogs are welcome at this piece of art in the desert. It's a perfect spot to stop along your road trip to get some great shots of your dog's Instagram.

Mission Creek Preserve is a dog-friendly nature preserve in Desert Hot Springs, CA. The area is home to old buildings along a dusty pathway that you can walk with your leashed pup. On the way, you'll pass historic structures and stunning desert plant communities, all with the backdrop of Southern California’s tallest peak in the background. Don't forget to pick up after your pooch.

Bring Fido to the dog-friendly Sandbar Powersports in Lake Havasu City, AZ! This store sells new and used boats and offers a number of rental options like boats and jet skis.

The Rustic Theatre and Entertainment Center welcomes Fido to join you for a movie at their pet-friendly theater in Idyllwild, CA. Grab a bucket of popcorn and sit with your leashed pup for an evening of entertainment. They also have an outdoor patio where you can enjoy food and drinks.

The Bark Park is a dog park in Yuma, AZ, with more than three acres of fully-fenced space for your pup to romp and run. The park offers water, benches, a few shade trees, clean up stations, and some agility equipment. Please note that on Tuesdays, the park doesn't open until 3:00 PM.

Idyllwild Regional Park is a dog-friendly, 202-acre recreational area in Idyllwild, CA. Hike with Fido on one of the five breathtaking trails overlooking the majestic skyline. Campers can enjoy access to fire rings, picnic areas, restrooms, and showers at any one of the individual camping sites. There are both camping fees and day-use fees for adults, children and dogs.