Slab City, A Squatter’s Paradise In The Middle Of Nowhere
Imagine Burning Man erupting inside a permanent Hooverville and you’re halfway to Slab City. A haven for homeless people and those who choose to live off the grid, Slab City is a commune on an abandoned military base in Southern California. I want to hang out with Purple and Two Horses.
An old checkpoint, now painted as a welcome sign, is seen at a site locals call Slab City just outside Niland, California February 15, 2012. A former military base that was closed after World War II, Slab City is a place on the fringe both geographically and philosophically and attracts a variety of people, including jobless and financially struggling recession refugees who can no longer pay for food and housing.
A sign for an art installation called East Jesus is seen in Slab City.
Jeff sits at his trailer in Slab City. Jeff said he counts the days with bottles, every day represented by an empty bottle of wine.
Mark, who said he spends half the year on Vancouver Island, sits in front of his motor home.
Jack “Two Horses” (L) and “Purple” are seen at Jack’s campsite.
Tracy “Magenta” Moss hugs Frank, who runs the internet cafe.
From left to right, Timothy, Zack and Casey Spyder.
Tracy “Magenta” Ross, (L) another woman and Don.
Frank (L) watches as a couple hook up their computer in his internet cafe.
A deputy with the Imperial County Sheriff talks to the man who was bathing nude.
The first hole of Slab City’s Gopher Flats golf course.
People are seen during dinner at the Karma Kafe.
“Princess Stephanie” (L) talks to another woman during a dinner at the Karma Kafe.
Rob Walker (L) kisses Dayna Lambert as Walker’s son Andy walks toward their campsite.
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