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"The Slabs" consists of a square mile of land just east of Niland, CA. It's said that this is the only permanent free campground in America. It was a military base WWII, Camp Dunlap, and was used to train troops in desert warfare. After the war, it was torn down, and only the cement "slabs" remain.
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This is what a lot of people think the Slabs are about - trash. But that is only a small part of it, and it is getting less and less all the time. The LOWs and the Traveling Pals and a few other groups maintain facilities for their members, and those areas are spotless.
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Snowbirds flock here every winter. There is actually lots to see here in addition to Salvation Mountain -- I hardly know where to begin!
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This is "The Hole," a vigorous shower, just the perfect temperature.
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The water flows down from a hot spring just upstream.
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A few ammo bunkers remain, and appear to be occupied.
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The land is always up for sale, but would cost too much to clear it of military ordnance, which is why it is available to us RVers.
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The remains of a full Olympic-size swimming pool.
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The Lizard Tree Library has no rules, and is open 24 hours a day. If you have a book you don't want, leave it. If you see a book you want, take it.
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The Coachella Canal runs through a corner of the Slabs, and has recently been redone in concrete to prevent water loss through seepage.
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One of the most touching things is the pet cemetery. Lots of beloved companions have their final resting place here.
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This year I recognized the grave of my friend Linda's cat, Thor. I know she really misses him.
Great photos and comments. I have enjoyed reminiscing. Wish I were there again with the Arkansas temps in the low 30s.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana:
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. Couldn't respond for a while, didn't have google, etc.
Your photographs are great, and I love your little vidclips.
Cherry
You beat me to the punch on this one. That's the problem with being in the same place. :-)
ReplyDelete