Welcome to my travel series, where we dive into the unique, offbeat, and unforgettable places of the Sonoran Desert in California.
First stop — Slab City. If you’re an adventurer, an artist, a curious soul, or just someone looking for a place unlike any other, this one’s for you.
Slab City: Where Are We Headed?
About an hour and a half south of civilization, past a border control checkpoint and through Imperial City, you’ll find yourself at the edge of a place that’s been called everything from “post-apocalyptic” to “the last free place in America.” But to those who live here, it’s simply home — the legendary Slab City.
Despite its reputation, Slab City isn’t some forgotten wasteland. It’s an ever-evolving off-grid community home to nomads, artists, travelers, and those seeking an alternative way of life. It has camps, art installations, and even a few local spots to eat, drink, and connect.
How Did Slab City Come to Be?
Slab City sits on the remains of Camp Dunlap, a former Marine Corps base established in 1942 for World War II artillery training. When the military decommissioned it in 1946, the buildings were dismantled by 1956, leaving only the concrete foundations — or slabs — behind.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the slabs began attracting seasonal visitors, military veterans, and free-spirited wanderers looking for a place outside society’s norms. Over time, it evolved into a self-sustaining, unincorporated community where people live by their own rules. While it’s often called “lawless,” Slab City still falls under California state law — though enforcement is minimal.
Salvation Mountain: A Pilgrimage in the Desert
In the 1980s, a man named Leonard Knight rolled through the desert in his van, chasing a dream. Originally, he wanted to build a hot-air balloon to spread his message — God is Love — but after repeated failures, he turned to something more permanent. Near Slab City, he began constructing Salvation Mountain, a massive, 50-foot-high, and 150-foot-wide adobe clay structure covered in layers of donated paint.
For over 30 years, Leonard worked tirelessly, creating a vibrant, living art piece. His message was simple: Love and faith belong to everyone. Salvation Mountain is now a recognized folk art landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world.
While part of the mountain has collapsed, restoration efforts are ongoing (details on how to donate are at the end of this post).
East Jesus & The Creative Spirit of Slab City
Nearby, in an area known as East Jesus, the artistic energy continues. Founded in the 2000s by artist Charles Russell, East Jesus is an evolving outdoor art gallery where creativity runs wild — think large-scale sculptures, recycled art, and thought-provoking installations. While it’s often lumped together with Salvation Mountain, they are separate projects, each with its own unique spirit.
Experiencing Slab City
Slab City is an open canvas shaped by those passing through. Some must-see spots include:
•The House of Dots – An interactive outdoor art installation with pieces from travelers and locals alike. Some are political, others poetic, all open to interpretation.
•The Range – A legendary open-air venue where live music lights up the desert on Saturday nights.
•The Oasis – A local gathering spot to grab a bite and chat with residents.
•The Hot Springs – A natural soak spot, perfect for unwinding after a long day in the desert.
Where to Stay
•Genesis Hostel – A quirky, four-bed RV listed on Airbnb for around $40–$45 per night.
•Mojo’s Slab Campsites – Budget-friendly camping at $20–$25 per night.
Many visitors come for a few days to experience the energy, create art, and connect with the community. During my visit, I met a snowbird (yes, even the slabs have snowbirds!) who told me with a peaceful smile, “This is the best time of year to be here.”
Life in the Slabs: Reality Check
Slab City isn’t a lawless wasteland, nor is it a utopia. It’s a tough place to live, and while there’s a certain magic here, it’s not for everyone. Resources are scarce, and the desert can be unforgiving.
That said, there’s a strong sense of community. The Slab City Care Club provides free meals on weekends and sometimes during the week for anyone, mainly during the winter season. Though I missed this event, I’d love to experience it next time. Locals look out for one another, but they don’t tolerate troublemakers.
Before You Go: Slab City Tips
✔ Visit Salvation Mountain – Drop a donation if you can.
✔ Support Local Artists – If someone is selling artwork, take a look—you might find something special.
✔ Bring Supplies – Water, snacks, and drinks are appreciated and can even be used for barter.
✔ Be Respectful – This is home for many, not just an attraction.
✔ Go in a Group – The desert is unpredictable, and safety in numbers is key.
✔ Avoid Summer Trips – The Sonoran Desert easily hits triple digits. I visited in mid-October, and even then, the weather was warm, and the Santa Ana winds made living conditions a bit intense.
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Next Stop: The Salton Sea
Stay tuned for part two of this series, where we explore the eerie beauty of the Salton Sea. See you on the road!
Want to Learn More about Slab City or Give Back?-
•House of Dots Art Project – Amazeinart.com
•Salvation Mountain Restoration – salvationmountain.org
•Slab City Care Club – Find them on Facebook or donate to their events: GoFundMe
•The Slab City Library currently could use a little support as it was very recently vandalized-
- Venmo @cornelius-vango
- Cashapp $corneliusvango
- Merch
By Contributor: April Burt
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