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The Tecopa Hot Springs Campground and Park was privatized by
the Inyo County government in October 2004, against the wishes of the vast
majority of local residents. The community had fought for many years
for the right to operate the facility themselves, with an innovative plan
in keeping with local custom and the traditional use agreement with Paiute people, upheld for over 132 years. This agreement provided
that:
- Baths are
free for healing purposes to all people.
- Baths are
available at all times.
- Men and
women bathe separately to maintain spiritual nature.
- Nude
bathing keeps waters free of pollutants at all times.
Many local people continue to boycott, and the campground remains mostly empty. Others are comfortable
with CLM, or have no other access to the healing waters. CLM made up for
the loss by catering to day users from Las Vegas, Pahrump and tour bus companies. This website
maintains a history of the community's past and ongoing efforts.
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