WELLNESS IS ALIVE AND WELL

The Doc Knows Best

Long before wellness became a way of life, Jon "The Doc" Wilkinson believed in the healing power of nature. Inspired by Calistoga's geothermal mineral springs and nutrient-rich volcanic ash, he opened Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs in 1952 with a simple vision: to share the restorative benefits of this extraordinary place with the world.

Together with his wife, Edy, the couple made the resort their home, overlooking Napa Valley while dedicating their lives to welcoming travelers seeking relaxation, renewal, and a different approach to well-being. Their former residence is now the Victorian House, offering five thoughtfully restored mid-century-inspired guest rooms that honor the property's rich history.

It didn't take long for word to spread. Dr. Wilkinson's became a beloved destination, welcoming everyone from Hollywood icons to road-tripping adventurers, all drawn by the legendary mud baths, healing mineral waters, and the warm hospitality that defined the resort.

Edy's creative spirit remains woven throughout the property. Her original mosaic artwork can still be found across the resort, and guests can stay in Edy's Art Cottage—her former studio—offering a unique glimpse into the artistic legacy she helped create.

OUR TREATMENTS

Guest room at Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort

STAY WELL

Our Resort

Why let your spa day end when the relaxation doesn't have to? Extend your wellness escape with a stay in one of our thoughtfully designed guest rooms, where iconic mid-century style meets modern amenities. Whether you're unwinding in a cozy king room, staying in the historic Victorian House, or escaping to Edy's Art Cottage, every accommodation is just steps from our geothermal mineral pools, spa, and on-site dining at House of Better--backyard games included! After a day of mud baths, mineral soaks, and massages, there's no better place to recharge than right here.

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WE'RE ON TO SOMETHING

Wellness Certified

Turns out, The Doc knew what he was talking about. Decades before wellness became trendy, he was bottling up the magic of Calistoga's mineral waters and legendary mud baths. Today, the Balneology Association of North America (BANA)—the leading authority on therapeutic bathing and medicinal springs—recognizes our geothermal mineral waters for their unique ability to soothe, hydrate, detoxify, support healthy skin, and help calm stressed-out nervous systems.

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Outdoor mineral pool at Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort

DEEP SIGHS ONLY

Spa Garden & Dining

Feeling too relaxed to leave? We get it. Stretch out in our Spa Garden, where cozy seating, hanging egg chairs, sunshine, and a crackling fire pit make "just five more minutes" the unofficial motto. Then swing by House of Better for fresh, feel-good food, house-made agua frescas, kombucha on tap, and local Napa wines, beer and cocktails that pair perfectly with post-spa bliss.

VISIT OUR RESORT HOUSE OF BETTER