El Dorado Hot Springs, Tonopah, AZ

## Overview El Dorado Hot Springs is a charming desert hot spring resort located in Tonopah, Arizona, roughly 45 minutes west of Phoenix along Interstate 10. Nestled in the wide-open Sonoran Desert landscape, this privately operated facility offers a relaxing retreat that's especially popular with road-trippers looking to shake off highway fatigue. The hot spring water has a reported pH of 8.2 and is notably free of sulfur, iron, or any unpleasant odor — making it a pleasant soak compared to many mineral springs. The water is also reported to contain trace amounts of lithium, a mineral sometimes associated with mood-enhancing properties. Historically, the resort was owned and operated by its original founder, who was a significant contributor to the well-known hot springs guidebooks covering the Southwest and Pacific Northwest regions. Copies of both books have traditionally been available for purchase on-site. El Dorado Hot Springs features private soaking tubs as well as a clothing-optional communal soaking area. As of the most recent user-submitted information, the nude area was priced at $7.50 per hour, with frequent soaker punch cards also available for $7.50. The resort additionally offers on-site accommodation and massage services. The facility is open every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. For the latest pricing, hours, and booking information, visitors can check the official website at [el-dorado.com](http://www.el-dorado.com). ## Directions 1. From central Phoenix, head west on Interstate 10 toward Los Angeles. 2. Continue on I-10 for approximately 45 minutes (about 50 miles) until you reach the Tonopah area. 3. Take the exit for Indian School Road (also labeled as W Indian School Rd). 4. Head to the vicinity of **41051 W Indian School Rd, Tonopah, AZ 85354**. The resort is situated along this road in the desert west of the small community of Tonopah. 5. Look for signage for El Dorado Hot Springs. GPS coordinates: **33.493675, -112.936966**. *Note: The original listing referenced a nearby address of 41225 Indian School Rd but did not provide turn-by-turn directions from that point. The address and GPS coordinates above should guide you directly to the resort.* ## What to Expect El Dorado Hot Springs sits in a quiet stretch of the Sonoran Desert, offering wide-open skies and a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the bustle of Phoenix. The facility is modest and unpretentious — expect a laid-back, community-oriented vibe rather than a luxury spa experience. Visitors can choose between private soaking tubs for a more secluded experience or the clothing-optional communal area for a social soak. The mineral-rich hot spring water is warm and reportedly clean-tasting, with its alkaline pH and lack of sulfur smell making it especially appealing to those sensitive to the strong odors common at other hot springs. The desert setting means temperatures can be extreme — summers are scorching, so evening soaks may be more comfortable during the hotter months. Winter and spring visits offer mild desert weather and stunning sunsets. There is limited shade, so bringing sun protection is a good idea for daytime visits. Accommodation is available on-site for those who want to extend their stay, and massage services are offered as well. Check with the resort directly for current availability and pricing, as rates may have changed since the last update.