Dogs in Hot Water

We had such a lovely time camping with the dogs in Tonopah a couple months ago, that we decided to go back. And, this time, we let the dogs swim in the hot spring water, too! (Trust me, where they swam was more luke-warm water than hot.)

We arrived, as is so often the case, at sunset. (Tonopah is about an hour west of Phoenix.) That's no problem; Keith and I are used to assembling our tent in the dark.)

We had scheduled our hour in a private tub for the Duck Pond, the only area at El Dorado Hot Spring with a whole pool. Despite the name, there were no ducks there when we arrived so it was clear going for Ella, who loves the water; less so for Lilly, who doesn't exactly "love" the water, but does love Ella and will follow her anywhere.

The moon was full (or nearly so).

In the morning we woke and Lilly surveyed the domain.

As usual, I went to the semi-private area for a morning soak, and found this peacock couple perching there. I hadn't realized peacocks could perch!

After lunch, Keith and I decided to visit the "other" side of nearby Saddle Mountain.

With no one and nothing in sight, we let the dogs out to run and play off-leash for a few minutes.

The "other side— of Saddle Mountain.

Hay bales have gotten larger since I was a kid.

Back at camp, I was pleased to see we could leave the dogs off-leash without their wandering off.

Untrimmed palm trees provide housing and food for endless numbers of birds, insects, and small mammals.

Lilly seems very comfortable with camp.

A neighboring campground which has been decorated with wine and beer bottles. Hopefully not all on the same night!

Desert Pete, the semi-private area, was deserted but I love the new green LED lights.

And a full moon lulled us to sleep.