Expert: Steve Summers - 5/5/2002

Question
We're looking for a campsite preferably near the ocean or lake where dogs are permitted. We live in the LA county but we can go as far south as San Diego and as far north as Ventura/Santa Barbara. We're looking to camp in the next few weeks. We'd appreciate any info you might have.

Answer
Most state campgrounds allow dogs, but the usual restrictions apply (must be on leash at all times, can't be left alone in campsites). You can find the camgrounds at www.reserveamerica.com. If you are looking to camp in the next few weeks, you are probably only going to find a night here or there midweek, since state campgrounds fill up months in advance. Some favorites to try are Carpinteria, El Capitan, Refugio (all in the Santa Barbara area), or San Elijo, South Carlsbad (near San Diego) or even San Clemente and Doheney (in OC).

If you promise not to tell, here's a hint about the state beaches, especially Carpinteria: The lifeguards leave about 5 PM, so there is nobody to enforce the "no dogs on the beach" rule. By the time the sun sets around 8 PM in the summer, the beach is full of dogs with their owners, having a great time.

Also, I do know of one beach that allows dogs on the beach. It's in Santa Barbara County. It's a drive, but worth it. Check out Jalama Beach at www.jalamabeach.com.

Good luck, and have fun!