We'd like to introduce you to El Dorado, the rustic spa we're building over a natural subterranean hot spring of odorless, tasteless mineral water. As nearly as possible, El Dorado offers a genuine desert hot spring soaking adventure, but with amenities, in a verdant and simple desert oasis. Practiced and enjoyed for many millennia, hot mineral water soaking is one of the oldest forms of natural therapy.

Therapeutic massage, reflexology, and aromatherapy are available by appointment.

Stone Meditation Circle is done. The first building is up; heated by spring water flowing under the floor, it will house the first indoor hot baths, more mineral water showers, an office, and a toilet. Shade cloth slides over the outdoor tubs, misting systems are in place, and cool tubs are available so soaking is comfortable when the sun is hot.

Make plans now for El Dorado's Third Spring Equinox Celebration, March 21, 1999.

A million miles from Monday, El Dorado is the home of the one hour mineral water shower, a place where the hot water never runs out. Compliments of Mother Earth, the waters are like an elixir that's akin to bathing in liquid silk.

El Dorado has a couple of hookups and the septic system is completed, including an RV dump; we accommodate RV's or tents for overnight stays. Campfires encouraged; free firewood while the supply lasts. You can fill your tank from the deep spring.

There's a phone line for guests for personal calls and email.

Take the break you deserve by visiting El Dorado for a natural mineral water soak. Envision basking in a large open air private bath where you can make the water cooler in hot weather and hotter in cool weather. Imagine gazing at the stars under crystal clear skies or just being alone with yourself.

Soaking is $5 for 1 hour, $10 for 2 hours, and $15 for all day. If you stay overnight, the $15 is good for 24 hours. Private pools are $7.50 per hour per person for the first two hours and $5 per hour after that. Children are half price. Camping is $5 per single, couple or family and $2.50 for each additional adult. If one arrives after 6pm and leaves before 10am the next day, the soaking fee is $10. Other options are available. Membership isn't needed at El Dorado --visit as often as you like. Frequent Soaker Discounts available. Bring a jug or two and take home some pure El Dorado spring water.

For people staying overnight, it's $5 with no hookup or $10 with electric.

Hours: 9am-9pm; other times by appointment.

No dogs please.

El Dorado's 6.7 acres are in Tonopah (Indian for "hot water under the bush"), 40 miles West of Phoenix, near I-10 on a paved road with most services close by. We deliver meals from Alice's Restaurant right to you at the hot spring.

At El Dorado, Mother Sun is our clock and peace, quiet, and the utmost respect for the space of others abounds. The main Saturday night activity might be constellation study under crystal clear skies, quiet conversation, or restful relaxation in a large hot bath. After greeting Mother Sun, Sunday might bring discussions of Native Americana, meditation, or just simple quiet time enjoying Bach, Debussy, The Eagles, Kitaro, Shostakovich, or Strauss. Or... nothing.

Tonopah once was home to at least five hot mineral water spas. Two of these historic sites border El Dorado, including the last one to operate which was owned by a local legend, Tonopah Doc Gear.

We welcome all responsible people and look forward to your visit. The water is always warm at El Dorado.