While we waited to become Texans, we made a quick trip to Jemez Springs, New Mexico to hook up with an old friend from Eureka. Dave gets the prize for traveling the farthest (by car) to meet us on our journey so far. And after putting 35,000+ miles on our truck a few hundred miles is never out of the way for friends.

We spent a few quiet nights all alone, along a stream at Fenton Lake State Park. Then the weekend brought a slew of serious partyers who enjoyed speeding around the campground kicking up dust. C’mon, they really couldn’t walk the 1/4 mile to the lake? Oh, there I go digressing again.

Before Dave showed up René and I found a popular natural hot spring nearby. Way to popular. Then we discovered the private hot springs in town were way too private – bathtubs we could rent for $15 per hour, per person.

After connecting with the park ranger who grew up near her old hometown, René found out where to go once Dave arrived. We could tell you exactly where these awesome hot springs are, but then we’d have to kill you. We promised the ranger we wouldn’t tell. But perhaps you can figure it out…

A short drive from Fenton Lake, the three of us hiked four miles down a closed forest service road. Across the river and up the hill are a series of crystal clear pools fed from a natural hot spring. The water was hot and refreshing, the views spectacular. We were all alone. The only thing wrong was the four mile hike back to the truck.

There’s something about dry camping in the desert for a few weeks that really makes one appreciate the lesser things in life … like soaking in a big muddy spring with naked strangers, sharing some hooch under the stars, or showering in a culvert.

It also makes one realize how we take for granted what most consider the the basic necessities of life … plumbing – and hot water, at that – electricity, refrigeration, shelter and transportation.

One look around the slabs and it’s obvious that many come to Slab City because they want to, while others end up here because they must.

Perhaps there is no where else to go for the scruffy genius. Are the weary travelers here in a tent with their three legged dog for fun? Does the young graduate couple camp here with theirs because it’s free?

That’s one good reason we spent nearly three weeks at Slab City. Same goes for a good number of Canadians, Fokkers, full-time RVers, weekenders, and resident transients who call Niland, CA home for at least a while. There’s no amenities, no facilities, and there’s not much of anything in town, unless you’re looking for a vast selection of fortified wines.

But what does one really need to maintain his or her standard of living? That all depends on where your comfort level lies in relationship to your surroundings.

To some, Slab City has it all: hot springs, live music, good people and a community shower. To others it’s a great place to visit – decent weather and social clubs, with fuel, a laundromat and store nearby.

To those who might disagree, I suggest you at least give it a try. After all its perfectly safe, with 24-hour security from the border patrol, a U.S. Navy bombing range to the east and Calipatria State Prison to the west. And you can’t beat the price!

I give credit to anyone makes a go of it on the slabs. First impressions can be deceiving. If you give it time, Slab City might just grow on you. Just not literally, one hopes.