- It's not a place you're likely to find by accident. Even if you're looking for it, it's no easy task. But the healing waters of Chinati Hot Springs, the dry arid environment of the Chihuahuan Desert, and the blissful isolation of Deep West Texas combine to create a mythical appeal that continues to lure the adventurous and those seeking solitude and uninterrupted peace of mind. Located near Ruidosa (Texas, not New Mexico) near the Big Bend country, Chinati Springs was first established by Annie Kingston who purchased the land because of the hot mineral springs that were said to be the perfect treatment for her brother-in-law's arthritis. But the springs weren't open to visitors until the 1930s when word of the water's healing properties begin to spread. Once owned by minimalist artist Donald Judd,  the landscape of this "oasis in the desert" stands in contrast to the contemporary art he produced. Yet his sleek geometric shapes and symmetrical designs did capture the lighting and shadows highlighted by the wild West Texas landscape and the briliiant colors of the Big Bend sky were often captured in his works. Visitors to the facility today are greeted by several small, private cabins with comfortable beds, two suites with their own hot baths and toilets, and a bunk room for larger groups. There are two private bath houses and one communal tub overlooking a creek. A furnished kitchen is available for all guests to use and you are free to drink all the spring water you choose. Concerning the local water, the springs issue from a geothermally heated, deep aquifer that according to radiocarbon dating has been isolated underground for 20,000-plus years. Laboratory analysis shows all minerals and metalsin the water to be within safe ranges, and it is sweet to the taste according to some. Richard Fenker is the brain behind the latest hot springs operation. Purchasing the property in 1998 after Judd's death, Fenker established a nonprofit corporation to operate the facility and went to work in developing workshops on medicinal plants of the desert Southwest, staging desert photography classes, tai chi, ornithology and entomology studies, and a number of special programsof that nature have been staged there in recent few years. Part of the goal of the foundation is to encourage artists, scientists, historians and other students to use the ranch for seminars and workshops and as a place to study, create and rejuvenate. According to the official Web site, in order to fully enjoy the relaxation of the waters, The Chinati Hot Springs offers a variety of activities to keep the mind and body active as well. There are trails for hiking, mountain biking, or exploring the natural beauty of the unspoiled lands of deep canyons, cottonwood lined creek beds, distinctive geology and stunning sunsets. Many forms of wildlife are attracted to this oasis, and among them are many species of rare birds, which offer enjoyment year-round. The hot spring water bubbles up out of the ground at near 110-degrees so take caution before taking the plunge. The best time of day to enjoy the water is during the dark hours when desert temps leave a coolness in the air and the big night sky opens up with a billion brilliant twinkling stars. You can't see the night sky so clearly from anywhere else in the world! Chinati can be reached from Marfa, Texas, via Hwy 67 to Presidio, then west on Hwy 170 or by a high-clearance scenic route. Check on road conditions before attempting this route unless you have four-wheel drive.