When you're heading north on Highway 395 from Los Angeles with your dog, it's not just about the destination—it's about making smart, safe stops along the way. Whether you're bound for Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, Lone Pine, or Mount Whitney, your dog needs regular breaks that are far from fast-moving traffic and hot parking lots.
This guide to the best dog-friendly rest stops on Highway 395 covers ideal places for dogs to hydrate, cool off, walk, and decompress. These stops are hand-picked for their safety, distance from the highway, water and shade access, and overall quality of life for your four-legged travel buddy.
Red Rock Canyon State Park (Near Ridgecrest)
Distance from LA: ~120 miles
Red Rock Canyon is a fantastic first leg-stretch for both humans and dogs. Located just off Highway 14 before it connects with 395, this park features wide desert expanses, rock formations, and scenic rest areas.
Dog Advantages:
- Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park.
- Off-highway, low-traffic environment.
- Flat terrain and photo-worthy views.
What to Know:
There’s minimal shade and no water sources — so stop early in the day and bring plenty of water and a dog bowl like our Hike With Dogs stainless steel bowl for hydration breaks.
Fossil Falls (Olancha Area)
Distance from LA: ~180 miles
One of the most overlooked but dog-worthy stops on Highway 395 is Fossil Falls. The short trail through ancient lava rock formations is quiet, remote, and far from speeding vehicles.
Dog Advantages:
- Off-leash friendly if under voice control.
- Easy, half-mile walk with zero highway noise.
- No other visitors most of the time — great for shy or reactive dogs.
What to Know:
No water, and the volcanic terrain can get hot. Ideal for cool-weather trips or early stops. Always check the ground temperature before letting your dog explore.
Diaz Lake Recreation Area (Just South of Lone Pine)
Distance from LA: ~210 miles
Diaz Lake is a reliable, dog-approved stop with water access and shade trees just minutes off the highway. It’s a safe alternative to public rest stops.
Dog Advantages:
- On-leash access to lakefront areas.
- Shady picnic spots with room to move.
- Clean, safe, and rarely crowded.
What to Know:
Some reeds line the lake, so swimming isn’t ideal, but it’s still a refreshing spot to dip paws and rehydrate. Bring waste bags — there are limited services.
Lone Pine Dog Park (In Town)
Distance from LA: ~210 miles
Need an off-leash break? The fenced dog park in Lone Pine is tucked behind Spainhower Park and provides a rare chance to let your dog run freely in a safe space.
Dog Advantages:
- Fully fenced, with some grass and shade.
- Far from road noise and traffic.
- Often empty — perfect for sensitive pups.
What to Know:
Bring water and your own bowl just in case. This is a quick but effective stop for dogs who need more than a walk.
Millpond Recreation Area (North of Bishop)
Distance from LA: ~260 miles
This large, shaded park is a favorite for both locals and traveling dog owners. With grassy open space, running water nearby, and minimal crowds, it’s an ideal spot to stop before or after visiting Bishop.
Dog Advantages:
- Multiple creeks for water-loving dogs.
- Picnic areas and off-road quiet.
- Excellent for long breaks and exercise.
What to Know:
Open year-round, and usually quiet on weekdays. Always leash up and follow posted rules — though most visitors here are dog-savvy and friendly.
Essential Tips for Traveling 395 with Your Dog
- Bring a high-quality travel bowl like our Camp With Dogs stainless steel dog bowl. Double-wall insulation keeps water cool, and the anti-slip base prevents spills in the car or on rough terrain.
- Avoid highway-adjacent gas station stops where pavement can burn paws and traffic is dangerously close.
- Use stops like Millpond and Fossil Falls for mental stimulation — new smells and textures are key to keeping dogs calm in the car.
- Travel early in the day to beat the heat, especially during spring and summer.
Final Thoughts
The 395 corridor is a dream for dog lovers, but only if you know where to stop. Don’t settle for parking lots or loud gas stations when your dog deserves shade, space, and safe places to roam. Whether you're heading for a weekend in Mammoth, tackling a hike near Mt. Whitney, or road-tripping to the Eastern Sierra, these dog-friendly stops will keep tails wagging the whole way there.