Slab City, CA

In the middle of the California desert without food, running water, electricity, sewage, trash service, and… without laws, anywhere from 200 to 1500 squatters congregate to make up the last lawless land in the US.

Our Experience

Driving into Slab City was anxiety inducing. It was our goal to well document this fascinating, off-grid city and tell it’s story through the eyes of the residents. But, we knew that many people go to Slab City to AVOID cameras… so we didn’t know what to expect. However, upon entry to the city, we were strangely welcomed.

What is Salvation Mountain?

Salvation Mountain is a small piece of the intricate and expansive puzzle of Slab City. The mountain was originally built by Leonard Knight, who used hay bails and thousands of paint canisters to craft this massive art installation. He became somewhat of a celebrity in the area, as the mountain was frequented by tourists. In fact, he was even featured in the movie “Into the Wild.”

After talking with Ron, the new caretaker of Salvation Mountain, we drove deeper into Slab City, where we hoped to talk with more locals.

Are there community areas in Slab City?

Slab City is home to various communities spaces. As one enters Slab City they will be greeted by Salvation Mountain. After venturing further into town one can expect to see a local music venue known as The Range. Further down the gravel roads there is a Library, where local Cornelius Vega lives. When we visited she explained to us the anarchist culture in Slab City. Another community zone that draws in locals is the Internet Cafe, one of the few places in the area where people can get on the grid. We met with Rob, who manages the internet cafe. He outlined how the cafe’s solar panels allow for off-grid electricity. You can find out more about these areas in the video above.

What is East Jesus?

East Jesus is an expansive artist commune where trash is made into art. It is a particularly astonishing site. In fact, according to the local caretaker at the time many installations from the Coachella music festival are retired to Slab City and left in East Jesus.

What are the Slab City rules?

While there are no formal ‘rules,’ Slab City operates on a system where if you don’t harm anyone or anyone’s belongings, you will not be harmed. This can be seen in our interview with Cornelius. Slab City is known for being the “Last Free Place on Earth” or “The Last Lawless Land in America.” With this comes the assumption that there are no laws. However, federal and state law still applies here.

Do kids live in Slab City?

If you spend a decent amount of time in Slab City you will likely run into children at some point. Families with kids do in fact live in Slab City. During our time at the slabs we spoke with a young man about his experience growing up in Slab City. His responses were hard to take in as he alluded to his hope that one day no one will steal another persons home in Slab City.

Are there are schools in Slab City?

As you probably guessed, there are no schools in Slab City… The close city of Niland, CA does have a school system, however. Source

Why do people live in Slab City?

Initially, during our visit Slab City seemed like a place where people went to live off the grid, do drugs, live without laws, and escape from the world. Some people do drugs, live recklessly, and sleep in the dirt... but it seems like most are simply seeking a place to belong. There is a fundamental harmony within everyone who lives there. They came to Slab City for different reasons, but when it comes down to it... the people who stuck around all found a common logic, reason, or motive. And there’s something special about that. As for the future of Slab City? We’re not sure. From what we can tell, people were divided on this.

Is Slab City safe to visit?

Slab City is relatively safe to visit. As a film crew, we managed just fine even with our camera gear, although we are 4 young men. There are many people that come and go. The daytime is usually safe, while the nighttime is questionable.

Can you live in Slab City?

Absolutely. In fact, there is no charge for living in Slab City. However, let it be known that there is no running water, no plumbing or sewage, and no electricity. The closest city with a supermarket is about 30 miles away. Many residents had spoken to us about getting ‘stuck’ in Slab City for various reasons.

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